Pacifen

Uses
Pacifen (Baclofen) is a muscle relaxant as well as an antispastic agent, and it is widely prescribed for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy and other conditions that can cause muscle spasms or affect the spinal cord. This drug acts on certain receptors in the spinal cord, known as GABA-B receptors, which in turn can reduce muscular rigidity, spasms and pain. In some cases, this medicine has been used to treat hiccups, and medical research has suggested potential benefits in treating withdrawal symptoms in those affected by alcoholism.

Dosage and Administration
Pacifen (Baclofen) comes as 10mg tablets, which are taken by mouth. Adult patients who have been told by their doctor to take this medicine as a treatment for muscle spasms are sometimes prescribed an initial dosage which consists of 5mg, taken 3 times per day, for a period of 3 days. After this, the prescribing doctor may decide to increase the dosage, to 10mg, taken 3 times per day for a further 3 days.

If deemed necessary, 15mg taken 3 times per day for the next 3 days may be prescribed, followed by yet another increase in the dosage, to 20mg, taken by mouth 3 times per day. Depending on the opinion of the doctor providing treatment, the maintenance dose may range from 40mg to 80mg per day, however, if a dosage of 80mg per day is prescribed, it is usually taken in 4 divided doses.

Side effects
Patients who are treating muscle spasms or any other conditions with Pacifen (Baclofen) may sometimes experience side effects, such as:

• Drowsiness
• Stomach upset
• Spinning sensation
• Difficulty sleeping properly
• Increased frequency of urination

Tell your doctor if any side effects occur that bother you. Although the risk of serious side effects is not considered to be high, there is still a possibility of this occurring. Seek medical care as soon as you possibly can if you experience hallucinations, seizures, breathing difficulties or any other symptoms of a severe reaction.

Precautions
Suddenly ceasing treatment may result in withdrawal symptoms. In order to avoid this, your doctor may need to slowly reduce your dosage when treatment is being stopped.

Patients who are affected by medical disorders of the liver may need to have their liver monitored by their doctor during treatment.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Pacifen (Baclofen) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.