The Dangerous Effect of Mixing Baclofen and Alcohol

Alcohol is such a normal part of today’s modern society, that we often are unaware of the danger of mixing certain medications with it. Alcohol is a depressant, and when mixed with other central nervous system depressants, it can result in highly dangerous situations such as coma or even death. 

One drug in particular that has the potential of being dangerous when mixed with alcohol is Baclofen. Here is everything to know about Baclofen and the dangers of mixing Baclofen and alcohol. 

What is Baclofen?

Baclofen is a prescribed medication, used to help treat various muscle disorders such as muscle spasms, pain, and stiffness. This medication is also known by the brand names Gablofen and Lioresal. Baclofen belongs to the drug class known as skeletal muscle relaxants. Baclofen is a central nervous system depressant and has been proven to help alcohol withdrawal, however, it can be highly dangerous to mix the two substances. 

Is Baclofen Addictive?

Baclofen produces a pain-relieving and relaxing feeling which is both desirable effects for many drug users. When taken on its own as prescribed, Baclofen has not been known to be addictive, however, once it is abused the user has a high chance of developing dependence and becoming addicted. 

Baclofen abuse means taking it without a prescription, taking an excessive amount, and mixing it with other drugs to enhance the feelings. When used recreationally, Baclofen abuse can result in an overdose and become fatal. Medical attention must be sought out immediately if someone is presenting signs of a drug overdose. 

Baclofen Withdrawal Symptoms

After Baclofen has been abused, the user is likely to experience uncomfortable and dangerous withdrawal symptoms once they stop the use of the drug addiction. Withdrawal symptoms can be painful and result in severe health complications therefore seeking help from a professional detox center is always advised. 

Baclofen withdrawal symptoms include: 

• Return of muscle spasms, muscle pain, and stiffness 
• Excessive itching 
• Lightheadedness
• Low blood pressure 
• Tingling sensations throughout the body 
• High fever
• Mood swings 

In severe cases, the withdrawal symptoms can include loss of bodily functions and death. 

Why is Alcohol Combined with Baclofen?

Baclofen and alcohol are often combined to enhance the feeling the drugs create. Both alcohol and baclofen are central nervous system depressants, and when they are combined, the effects of the Baclofen will be heightened. Most people mix alcohol and Baclofen to have both the depressant effects of alcohol and the muscle relaxant effects of Baclofen. 

What Happens When Baclofen and Alcohol are Mixed?

When Baclofen and alcohol are mixed, the effects in the central nervous system are greatly increased. The user is likely to experience feelings such as extreme drowsiness, dizziness, agitation, confusion, and extreme weakness. In more severe cases, mixing Baclofen and alcohol can result in seizures, and raised blood pressure or heart rate. The more dangerous side effect of mixing Baclofen and alcohol is the potential of a drug overdose which can result in death.

Symptoms of Baclofen Overdose

When too much Baclofen has been consumed, or if mixed with other substances, specifically alcohol, the user may overdose. A drug overdose is a serious medical concern that requires professional treatment. Signs of a Baclofen overdose include: 

• Delirium or extreme confusion
• Respiratory depression 
• Seizures 
• Coma 
• Death 

How Does Baclofen Treat Alcoholism?

There has been a lot of controversy over whether or not Baclofen treats Alcoholism, and it seems further research is still needed to truthfully answer this question. However, in several other countries, Baclofen is used to help treat Alcoholism and Alcohol Use Disorder. At this point, there have not been enough scientific studies throughout the United States to prove this to be true. 

What Should You Do if You Have Already Mixed Them?

If someone is showing dangerous side effects after mixing Baclofen and alcohol, medical supervision should be contacted immediately to prevent a dangerous and possibly deadly overdose. Baclofen and alcohol should never be mixed due to the high risk of potentially harmful and fatal outcomes. 

Treatment for Baclofen and Alcohol Use

If you or someone you know are seeking treatment after mixing Baclofen and alcohol, contact a medical professional immediately to ensure a safe recovery. Mixing these substances is highly dangerous and can result in seizures, coma, or death. Lion Recovery is an addiction recovery center located in Southern California that can help support you throughout your substance abuse journey. Lion Recovery provides quality care for those seeking addiction recovery. Contact us today at 888-616-3179 to learn more about the various programs offered.

Citations 

American Addiction Center. “Dangers of Mixing Baclofen and Alcohol.” 

https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment/mixing-with-baclofen Reviewed 7, January 2022 

Addiction Center. “Baclofen Addiction and Abuse.” 

https://www.addictioncenter.com/drugs/baclofen/ Revived 8, November 2021