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Dexmedetomidine for acute baclofen withdrawal
Simon Morr1, Christopher M Heard, Veetai Li
1Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, New York, USA.
Neurocritical Care
|November 19, 2014
Summary
Intrathecal baclofen withdrawal can be severe, but dexmedetomidine may offer a new treatment. This case study shows successful use of dexmedetomidine infusion for acute, severe baclofen withdrawal symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Intrathecal baclofen, a GABA-B agonist, treats severe spasticity.
- Abrupt cessation can cause life-threatening withdrawal symptoms similar to alcohol withdrawal.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old patient experienced severe baclofen withdrawal after pump removal.
- Symptoms included hemodynamic instability, rebound spasticity, and clonus despite benzodiazepines.
Findings:
- A dexmedetomidine infusion successfully treated the patient's severe baclofen withdrawal symptoms.
- The patient's hemodynamics stabilized, and tone and agitation improved.
Implications:
- Dexmedetomidine is a potential novel treatment for acute, severe baclofen withdrawal.
- Further research is needed to compare its efficacy with existing treatments.