Baclofen

Baclofen is used to treat muscle spasms associated with multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury, and it may help with face pain due to trigeminal neuralgia. It is in a class of drugs known as centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxants.

Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
(for details about the summarized interactions, read the full article)

Depletion or interference	None known
Side effect reduction/prevention	None known
Supportive interaction	None known
Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability	None known
Adverse interaction	None known

Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds

Food
Baclofen absorption is not affected by food, but the drug should be taken with a meal to minimize stomach upset.¹

Alcohol
Drinking alcohol may enhance the side effects of baclofen, such as drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, and fatigue.² Therefore, people taking baclofen should avoid alcoholic beverages, especially if staying alert is necessary.

References

1. Peterson GM, McLean S, Millingen KS. Food does not affect the bioavailability of baclofen. Med J Aust 1985;142:689–90.

2. Olin BR, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Muscle Relaxants, Centrally Acting. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, 1993, 1529–30.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2005.