What safety measures should you take when your child is using baclofen?
DO NOT STOP BACLOFEN INTRATHECAL SUDDENLY. DO NOT MISS APPOINTMENTS TO REFILL THE PUMP.
Stopping this medicine suddenly can cause serious medical problems. Signs that your child's pump may not be functioning properly or that the pump does not have enough baclofen include:
- an increase or return in spasticity
- muscles becoming rigid
- itching
- low blood pressure
- light-headedness
- tingling sensation
- high fever
- change in level of consciousness or mental status, such as confusion, drowsiness, or disorientation
If muscle spasticity is not improving or if your child starts having spasms again, contact your doctor immediately.
There are some medicines that should not be taken together with baclofen intrathecal or in some cases the dose of baclofen or the other medicine may need to be adjusted. It is important that you tell your doctor and pharmacist if your child takes any other medicines (prescription, non-prescription, herbal, or natural products), including:
- antihistamines or medicine for hay fever and allergies
- sedatives or sleeping medicines
- prescription pain medicine or narcotics
- medications for seizures
- other muscle relaxants
Intrathecal baclofen may cause dry mouth. Brush your child's teeth regularly and rinse your child's mouth with a mouthwash made from baking soda to help keep it clean. Your nurse or pharmacist can review this with you. Avoid store-bought mouthwash as it may sting and cause dry mouth. If dry mouth continues for more than 2 weeks, speak with your doctor or dentist.
Baclofen may make your child dizzy, drowsy, and less alert than normal. Watch carefully when your child is doing something that they need to be alert for. Your child's teacher should also know that your child is taking medication with these effects.
