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What are baclofen disintegrating tablets?
BACLOFEN (Kemstro) is a muscle relaxant. It relieves spasms and cramping of muscles in conditions such as multiple sclerosis. Generic baclofen disintegrating tablets are not available.
NOTE: This drug is not available in the United States.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
bleeding disorders
diabetes
mental illness
kidney disease
phenylketonuria
recent stroke
seizures (convulsions)
an unusual or allergic reaction to baclofen, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take baclofen disintegrating tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. With dry hands, place the tablet on your tongue. The tablet will dissolve rapidly and be swallowed in your saliva. It is not necessary to drink any water to take this medicine. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking your medicine suddenly.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What drug(s) may interact with baclofen?
medicines for diabetes
medicines for high blood pressure
Because baclofen can cause drowsiness, other medicines that also cause drowsiness may increase this effect of baclofen. Some medicines that cause drowsiness are:
alcohol-containing medicines
barbiturates such as phenobarbital
certain antidepressants or tranquilizers
certain antihistamines used in cold medicines
herbal products that contain kava kava or valerian
other muscle relaxants
tramadol or other strong medicines for pain
Ask your prescriber or health care professional about other medicines that may increase the effect of baclofen.
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking baclofen?
Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. It may take several days of treatment before you see the full effects of baclofen. Do not suddenly stop taking baclofen. You must gradually reduce the dose to avoid side effects. Ask your prescriber or health care professional for advice.
Baclofen can affect blood sugar levels. If you are diabetic check with your prescriber or health care professional before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetic medicine.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how baclofen affects you. To reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol can make you more drowsy; avoid alcoholic drinks.
What side effects may I notice from taking baclofen?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
chest pain
difficulty passing urine or increased need to urinate
difficulty walking or moving
fainting spells
increased spasticity
mood or mental changes
rapid heart beat
ringing or buzzing in the ears
seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations)
seizures
skin rash, hives
slurred speech or problems talking
unusual restlessness or nervousness
vision changes (blurred vision, seeing double)
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
changes in taste
confusion
constipation
diarrhea
difficulty sleeping at night (insomnia)
dizziness or lightheadedness
drowsiness
dry mouth
headache
muscle weakness
nausea, vomiting
weakness or tiredness
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Protect from moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.