Indications 

Lioresal DS is an oral medication primarily used to treat muscle spasms and spasticity caused by conditions such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, or cerebral palsy. It helps reduce muscle stiffness and improve movement by acting on certain nerves in the spinal cord. Lioresal DS is available in tablet form and is usually taken by mouth. 

Lioresal DS contains the active ingredient baclofen. It belongs to the class of medications known as muscle relaxants and antispastics. Baclofen works by acting on certain nerves in the spinal cord to reduce muscle spasms and relax muscles. It reduces the action of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which inhibits the activity of certain nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. 

Use and Dosage 

Baclofen is available in the form of tablets to take by mouth usually is taken 3 times a day at evenly spaced intervals. It can be taken orally with or without food as directed by a healthcare provider. Swallow whole tablet with water as the medication may have a bitter taste or may irritate the mouth and throat if chewed.  

The dosage and frequency of the medication will depend on the individual patient and their medical condition, as determined by their healthcare provider. The usual starting dose for adults is 10 mg (half a tablet), taken three times a day, and the medication may be gradually increased as needed. The maximum recommended dose of Lioresal DS is 20mg taken four times a day. Treatment should be initiated with a low dose, which may be gradually increased over a period of several days or weeks 

Take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

• Confusion 
• Constipation 
• Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep 
• Dizziness 
• Frequent urination 
• Headache 
• Nausea 
• Tiredness 
• Weakness 

Serious Side Effects 

• Breathing problems  
• Confusion  
• Dark urine 
• Decreased urine production 
• Diarrhea 
• Difficulty speaking  
• Difficulty urinating, bloody or dark urine 
• False sense of well-being  
• Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there)  
• Loss of appetite 
• Loss of coordination  
• Muscle pain 
• Nightmares or vivid dreams 
• Pale stools 
• Seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist 
• Seizures 
• Skin rash or hives 
• Slow heartbeat 
• Vomiting 
• Weight loss 
• Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes 

Cautions 

• Allergic reactions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies to Baclofen or any other medications. Allergic reactions to Baclofen can include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. 
• Kidney or liver problems: If you have a history of kidney or liver problems, it is important to inform your healthcare provider. Adjustments to the dosage of Lioresal DS may be necessary in such cases. 
• Mental health conditions: Baclofen may cause changes in mood or behavior, including depression or suicidal thoughts. If you have a history of mental health conditions, discuss this with your healthcare provider before taking Lioresal DS. 
• Central nervous system depression: Baclofen can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is important to avoid activities that require alertness until you know how the medication affects you. 
• Interactions with other medications: Inform your healthcare provider of all the medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Baclofen may interact with certain medications, such as antihistamines, sedatives, or alcohol, resulting in increased drowsiness or other side effects. 
• Withdrawal symptoms: Abruptly stopping Baclofen can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including hallucinations, seizures, and increased spasticity. If you need to discontinue the medication, your healthcare provider will guide you through a gradual tapering process.