intrathecal baclofen

Intrathecal baclofen is a formulation of the muscle relaxant and antispastic agent baclofen, administered directly into the cerebrospinal fluid via an implanted pump system. This delivery method is used for the management of severe spasticity of cerebral or spinal origin in patients who are unresponsive to oral therapy or experience intolerable side effects from oral administration. Baclofen acts primarily as an agonist at gamma-aminobutyric acid type B (GABA-B) receptors in the central nervous system, leading to inhibition of both mono- and polysynaptic reflexes at the spinal cord level, resulting in reduced muscle tone and spasticity. The intrathecal route allows for effective concentrations at the site of action with much lower systemic exposure compared to oral dosing, minimizing systemic side effects[1][2][5][9]. Indications include severe spasticity due to multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury (after one year), or spinal cord injury[1][5][9].

Brand names

GablofenLioresal Intrathecal

Other names

baclofen (intrathecal)ITB (intrathecal baclofen therapy)