Also indexed as: Apo-Baclofen®, Baclospas®,
Balgifen®, Gen-Baclofen®, Lioresal®, Liotec®, Novo-Baclofen®,
Nu-Baclo®, PMS-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
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem
contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized
interactions.
| 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
|
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the
interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific
evidence.
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.
Copyright © 2004 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights reserved.
www.healthnotes.com
Please read the disclaimer
about the limitations of the information provided here. Do NOT rely solely on the information
in this article.
Learn more about Healthnotes, the company.
Learn more about the authors of Using
Medicines with Vitamins and Herbs
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 December 2005.