High doses of Baclofen as suicide attempt in patients with alcohol use disorders - A serious concern

Asian J Psychiatr. 2015 Oct:17:99-100. doi: 10.1016/j.ajp.2015.06.015. Epub 2015 Jul 3.

Abstract

Baclofen is increasingly being used as an off label anti-craving agent in alcohol use disorders in various parts of the world. The lack of proper recommendations regarding the dosage has important implications for safety in clinical management. In this context, we report two patients who were started with Baclofen as an anti-craving agent, and later developed serious complications following acute self inflicted overdose. We also highlight the important mechanisms of such complications and precautions that needs to be exerted while prescribing.

Keywords: Alcohol dependence; Anti-craving; Baclofen overdose; Suicide.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Alcoholism* / complications
  • Alcoholism* / diagnosis
  • Alcoholism* / drug therapy
  • Alcoholism* / psychology
  • Baclofen* / administration & dosage
  • Baclofen* / adverse effects
  • Drug Overdose* / diagnosis
  • Drug Overdose* / etiology
  • Drug Overdose* / physiopathology
  • Drug Overdose* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Muscle Relaxants, Central / administration & dosage
  • Muscle Relaxants, Central / adverse effects
  • Suicide, Attempted / psychology*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Muscle Relaxants, Central
  • Baclofen