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High-dose oral baclofen: experience in patients with multiple sclerosis
C R Smith1, N G LaRocca, B S Giesser
1Medical Rehabilitation Research and Training Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461.
Neurology
|November 1, 1991
Summary
High-dose baclofen (greater than 80 mg/d) was frequently prescribed for multiple sclerosis spasticity. About 20% of patients took high doses, and 15% were still on them, with no link to treatment discontinuation.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Spasticity is a common symptom in multiple sclerosis.
- Baclofen is a frequently prescribed medication for managing MS-related spasticity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of high-dose baclofen (greater than 80 mg/d) prescription for multiple sclerosis spasticity.
- To assess the association between high-dose baclofen use and treatment discontinuation.
Main Methods:
- A 10% random sample of patient charts from an outpatient multiple sclerosis clinic was reviewed.
- Data on baclofen dosage and treatment continuation were extracted.
Main Results:
- Approximately 20% of patients had taken high-dose baclofen.
- 15% of patients were currently receiving high-dose baclofen.
- High-dose baclofen use was not associated with discontinuing treatment.
Conclusions:
- High doses of baclofen are commonly used in managing multiple sclerosis spasticity.
- Current high-dose baclofen regimens do not appear to increase the likelihood of treatment cessation.