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Abstract

Little work, using comparable protocols, has been done using baclofen in the management of patients following stroke. Extrapolation from trials in patients with spasticity and other spinal or cerebral pathology is not justified, partly because the symptoms and signs of stroke vary. However the reliable work which has been done indicates that baclofen is superior to diazepam in reducing spasticity and flexor spasms and in improving mobility and self help. Baclofen is as effective as diazepam in relieving clonus and pain associated with spasticity. The effect on bladder function is not reliably known. Unwanted effects are few and not serious: drowsiness is the most common, but occurs more frequently and noticeably with diazepam. Side effects were more likely to occur with doses in excess of 60 mg/day, if dose increments were made too rapidly and in patients with Parkinson's disease. More work is required with baclofen in managing patients after stroke.

Keywords

Baclofen in stroke review of trials to date benefits unwanted effects

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Clinical Appraisal of Baclofen in the Adult Stroke Patient

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