Baclofen Withdrawal-Induced Psychosis in the Setting of Renal Insufficiency
Date
2022-01-01Journal
Journal of Investigative Medicine High Impact Case ReportsPublisher
SageType
Article
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Show full item recordAbstract
Baclofen is used to treat muscle spasticity, acting at GABA B receptors in the central nervous system. The abrupt cessation of baclofen causes baclofen withdrawal–induced psychosis. The risk is exacerbated if the patient has renal insufficiency or if the drug has been taken for a long time at high doses. Gradual tapering of baclofen usually does not produce symptomatic adverse effects. However, abrupt termination of the drug, especially in an inpatient hospital setting, can lead to symptoms such as increased spasticity, agitation, confusion, hallucinations, and seizures. We present a case of a patient who initially presented with seizures and experienced hallucinations after abrupt cessation of the medication. She had baseline chronic kidney disease but presented with acute worsening of her renal function. Impaired renal function decreases baclofen clearance and causes increased concentration of baclofen in circulation. This put the patient at higher risk of developing baclofen withdrawal, even at a lower dose.Identifier to cite or link to this item
http://hdl.handle.net/10713/19644ae974a485f413a2113503eed53cd6c53
10.1177/23247096221110402