Health Library

Baclofen (By mouth)

Baclofen (BAK-loe-fen)

Treats muscle spasms caused by multiple sclerosis or certain injuries to the spine.

Brand Name(s):

Ozobax, Ozobax DS

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Granule, Liquid, Tablet

• Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
• Oral liquid: Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
• Granules:
  • Open the packet and empty all the granules directly into your mouth. The granules will dissolve in your mouth or can be swallowed. You may drink water after taking the medicine.
  • You may mix the granules with 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of liquid (including apple juice or milk) or soft foods (including applesauce, pudding, or yogurt). Take this mixture within 2 hours of mixing.
  • This medicine can also be given using a nasogastric or gastric feeding tube. Mix the granules with 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of liquid (including apple juice or milk). Give this mixture within 2 hours of mixing. After the medicine is given, flush the tube with an additional 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of water.
  • Take all the contents of the packet to get a full dose. Do not take only part of this medicine. Do not save a portion for later use.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• • Oral liquid: Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.
  • Tablets and granules: Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.
• Tell your doctor if you use anything else that makes you sleepy. Some examples are allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, and alcohol.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, diabetes, epilepsy, mental illness, ovarian cyst, posture or balance problems, a recent stroke, or history of autonomic dysreflexia.
• This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
• Do not stop using this medicine suddenly. Your doctor will need to slowly decrease your dose before you stop it completely.
• Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Change in how much or how often you urinate
• Confusion, headache, trouble sleeping, mood or mental changes
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting
• Muscles weakness, trouble breathing, trouble seeing
• Seizures

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Constipation, nausea
• Drowsiness, dizziness, or weakness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024