[Neuroleptic effect of baclofen in chronic schizophrenia (author's transl)]

In early 1975, surprising therapeutic effects of baclofen (Lioresal) in patients suffering from severe, chronic schizophrenia were reported from Sweden. We have carried out a study in 24 similar cases which we treated with baclofen in dosages up to 25 mg t.i.d. In rougly half of these patients no effect was observed. Of the remainder, four showed some improvement and another four a further deterioration of their condition. Those responding well were patients with acute symptoms or a history of depression, while in some of those whose condition worsened catatonic symptoms had been noted. This therapeutic possibility appears interesting from both the scientific and the practical points of view. The new class of substances merits further investigation to evaluate its psychopharmacological activity.