Oral Baclofen Withdrawal Resulting in Progressive Weakness and Sedation Requiring Intensive Care Admission

Abstract

Baclofen is a common medication used as a muscle relaxant and antispasmodic. Baclofen-withdrawal syndrome has many symptoms such as sedation, somnolence, and weakness but can include psychological symptoms. We present a 62-year-old female whose oral baclofen was not continued at a skilled nursing facility after discharge following inpatient surgery that led to the development of altered mental status and respiratory insufficiency necessitating intensive care unit admission. Abrupt cessation of baclofen, no matter the mode of administration to the patient, can lead to baclofen-withdrawal syndrome.