Indications 

Lioresal Intrathecal is indicated for the management of severe spasticity (stiff or rigid muscles) caused by brain or spinal cord injury or specific disorders (such as multiple sclerosis and cerebral palsy) for patients unresponsive or intolerant to oral baclofen’s side effects. 

Lioresal Intrathecal is categorized as a muscle relaxant and antispastic medication. While its exact mechanism of action is not completely understood, it is believed to aid in muscle relaxation. 

Uses and Dosage 

Lioresal Intrathecal is administered through injection into the area surrounding the spinal cord (intrathecally) via a surgically implanted drug pump beneath the skin. A healthcare provider will handle the medication’s pump filling and refilling. 

If self-administering this medication at home, acquire comprehensive preparation and usage directions from your healthcare provider.  

The dosage of Lioresal Intrathecal is determined based on individual medical conditions and response to the treatment. 

For optimal results, adhere strictly to your doctor’s instructions and do not miss your refill appointments. 

Do not discontinue Lioresal Intrathecal treatment without consulting your doctor, as abrupt cessation may lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. To prevent such complications, your doctor may opt for a gradual reduction in dosage.  For further information, consult your doctor or pharmacist and promptly notify them of any withdrawal reactions. 

Notify your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsen or if you observe any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or redness/swelling/pain/warmth at the pump site. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

• Dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, or weakness 
• Difficulty sleeping 
• Upset stomach or vomiting 
• Headaches 
• Constipation 

Notify your doctor if any of the above-listed common side effects last or worsen. 

Serious Side Effects 

• Severe dizziness or fainting 
• Confusion 
• Altered urinary frequency 
• New or exacerbated mental, mood, or behavioral changes 
• Seizures 
• Altered vision 
• Chest pain 
• Muscle pain, weakness, or stiffness 
• Abnormal burning, numbness, or tingling sensations 
• Breathing difficulties or changes in breath patterns 
• Urinary retention or changes in urination 
• Blood in urine 
• Hallucinations 
• Impaired control over body movements, twitching, balance, or speech or swallowing difficulties 
• Inability to control eye movements 
• Irregular heartbeat 

Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if any of the above-listed serious side effects occur. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Lioresal Intrathecal can occur. Immediate medical help should be sought if any of the following symptom’s manifest: 

• Skin rash, hives, itching 
• Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin, with or without fever 
• Wheezing, chest tightness 
• Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking 
• Unusual hoarseness 
• Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat 

This list does not include all potential side effects of Lioresal Intrathecal. Inform your doctor should any unlisted effects be observed. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Lioresal Intrathecal, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to baclofen or any of its inactive ingredients. 

To ensure Lioresal Intrathecal is safe for you, disclose to your doctor your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Seizures 
• Mental health conditions (e.g., schizophrenia) 
• Kidney disease 
• Or ongoing or recent infection 

Disclose all your medications to your doctor, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to lower the risk of drug interaction with Lioresal Intrathecal. 

Review all your medication labels for ingredients causing drowsiness, including over-the-counter products (e.g., allergy or cough medicines), and consult your pharmacist for their safe usage. 

Furthermore, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any drowsiness-inducing products you are taking, such as: 

• Opioid pain relievers 
• Alcohol 
• Cannabis 
• Sleep or anxiety medications (e.g., alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem) 
• Other muscle relaxants (e.g., carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine) 
• Antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, diphenhydramine) 

Refrain from driving or engaging in activities requiring alertness until you understand how Lioresal Intrathecal affects you. 

The use of Lioreasal Intrathecal during pregnancy should be limited to necessary cases, as it may cause withdrawal symptoms in the newborn. Consult with your doctor regarding the potential risks and benefits before commencing treatment. 

Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding, as you will need to discuss the potential risks of Lioresal Intrathecal for your nursing child.