Baclofen...

Katie,

You should notice results pretty quick.  It is supposed to get better with long term use (that is what I have heard anyway) but you should notice it working after 45 minutes or so.  If you are not noticing a difference then ask for an increase in dosage.  It works for most people but that does not mean it works for everyone.  Good luck.  I am sorry I missed your other request for info!!! 

PS - My horse is mud swamped with more rain on the way!!!  Poor guy!!  I feel so bad for him.

Hi Katie,

I found that oral baclofen did help (10mg) but I also had an allergic reaction to it so did not take it for the next 7 years. Then the spasms and spasticity became intolerable & now I have a baclofen pump. After the pump was implanted I went from 24 hr continuous intolerable pain (beyond 10/10 spasms in the foot, leg & pain on surface of skin) to 80% pain free in 12 hours. After 6 months I lost the dull ache in buttocks & thigh, the stinging hornets & pins & needles. I am now totally pain free for the first time in 12 years so it definitely is cumulative. I am sooo happy. Spasticity is about 60% better & could be much better if I could tolerate a higher dose but it makes me shake, thoughI have found exercise has improved this enough for me to increase the dose a bit.

Try a high dose of baclofen & physio and see if that helps. The neuro explained that the exercise is very NB because the more the muscle tightens the greater the spasm the worse the pain & it becomes a viscious circle. All the best

Baclofen has been a life savor for me. I started with 10 mg 3 x a day but found I needed more over time. Baclofen usually kicks in between 30 - 45 minutes. Since it relaxes muscles, I found at higher doses I had a terrible problem with daytime sleepiness. Doctors generally prescribe up to 120 mg per day orally. If you need more that that, it is time to consider a Baclofen pump. I love mine. Other medications commonly used for spasms are Zanaflex, Soma, and Robaxin. Good luck.