Severe Case of Intrathecal Baclofen Withdrawal: A Case Report
Baclofen is a medication that helps manage muscle spasticity by targeting gamma-aminobutyric acid B receptors in the nervous system. Discontinuing baclofen therapy generally leads to the recurrence of baseline spasticity and rigidity; however, abrupt cessation may also result in neurological, autonomic, and psychiatric symptoms. Baclofen withdrawal syndrome is one of the most serious complications of baclofen therapy, with the potential for rapid progression and significant morbidity and mortality. Prompt recognition and effective treatment are crucial. We present a severe case of intrathecal baclofen withdrawal following the sudden cessation of therapy, emphasizing the critical need for careful monitoring and early intervention to prevent serious complications.
Authors
- Helena da Silva (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0103-4291)
- A. Gomes (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3069-0404)
- Paula Perazzo de Souza Barbosa (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0004-2222-8855)
- Luís Guimarães‐Pereira (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2256-0335)
- Vânia Fernandes (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2534-6767)
Institutions
- Hospital de São João (PT)
- Administração Regional de Saúde de Lisboa e Vale do Tejo (PT)
- Hospital do Divino Espírito Santo (PT)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Cureus
- Published
- 2025-03-25
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.81141
- Citations
- 1
- Primary Topic
- Botulinum Toxin and Related Neurological Disorders
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 1.39