You can take baclofen as needed. It starts to work pretty quickly, and you don’t need to take it consistently (every day) for it to work well for you.
- Keep all formulations of baclofen at room temperature except for the Ozobax solution. The Ozobax liquid solution needs to be refrigerated.
- Baclofen can affect your ability to focus and concentrate. Avoid driving or performing any activity that requires a lot of attention until you know how this medication affects you.
- Side effects like dizziness and sleepiness are common. Don’t drink alcohol while taking baclofen, as it can make these side effects worse.
- Let your provider know if you use other medications that cause dizziness or drowsiness, such as opioids, benzodiazepines, or sleep aids. Baclofen can cause life-threatening drowsiness or trouble breathing when combined with these other medications.
- If you’re using the liquid form of baclofen (generic, or Ozobax or Fleqsuvy brands), be sure to use a medication dose cup, spoon, or oral syringe to measure out your dose. Using household teaspoons might cause you to take the wrong amount of baclofen.
- Fleqsuvy brand (liquid solution): Shake the bottle well before using. Make sure to throw away the bottle 2 months after opening, even if there’s some medication still left.
- Lyvispah brand (oral granules): There are a few ways you can take the oral granules. Empty the entire packet into the mouth, and swallow the granules or let them dissolve. You can also mix the granules into 15 mL of liquids or soft foods (e.g., applesauce, yogurt, pudding). If you take the medication this way, be sure to take it within 2 hours of mixing.
- Tell your healthcare provider if your current dose of baclofen isn’t helping your muscle spasms. They may choose to raise your dose or switch you to a different muscle relaxer. Never raise your dose on your own.
- If you’ve been taking baclofen every day for a long time, don’t stop taking it without talking to your healthcare provider first. Your provider will work with you to lower your dose safely to help avoid withdrawal symptoms like hallucinations or seizures.
- If your body needs muscle tone for posture or balance, speak to your provider to see if baclofen is right for you. Sometimes, relaxing the muscles might interfere with certain conditions and affect your ability to move, stand or sit up straight, or keep your balance.