What is the medicine baclofen used for. Baclofen (Lioresal): Uses, Side Effects, Dosage, and Precautions
What is baclofen used for. How does baclofen work to treat muscle spasticity. What are the common side effects of baclofen. How should baclofen be taken. What precautions should be considered when using baclofen.
Understanding Baclofen: A Muscle Relaxant for Spasticity
Baclofen, also known by the brand name Lioresal, is a medication primarily used to treat muscle spasticity. It belongs to a class of drugs called muscle relaxants and works by acting on the central nervous system to alleviate muscle stiffness, spasms, and pain associated with various neurological conditions.
How Does Baclofen Work?
Baclofen functions as a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) agonist. It binds to GABA-B receptors in the spinal cord and brain, ultimately reducing the release of excitatory neurotransmitters. This mechanism helps to decrease muscle tension and involuntary muscle contractions, providing relief from spasticity symptoms.
Primary Uses of Baclofen in Medical Treatment
Baclofen is prescribed for several conditions characterized by muscle spasticity:
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Cerebral Palsy
- Stroke
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
In these conditions, baclofen helps improve muscle movement, reduce pain, and enhance overall quality of life for patients struggling with spasticity-related symptoms.
Baclofen for Multiple Sclerosis
For individuals with multiple sclerosis, baclofen plays a crucial role in managing spasticity, which is a common and often debilitating symptom of the disease. By reducing muscle tightness and spasms, baclofen can improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance daily functioning for MS patients.
Dosage and Administration of Baclofen
The appropriate dosage of baclofen varies depending on the individual’s condition, severity of symptoms, and response to treatment. Typically, doctors start with a low dose and gradually increase it to achieve optimal therapeutic effects while minimizing side effects.
How should baclofen be taken?
Baclofen is usually taken orally in tablet form. The medication is often prescribed to be taken 3-4 times daily, with doses spaced evenly throughout the day. It’s important to follow the prescribed dosage schedule carefully and not to abruptly stop taking baclofen without consulting a healthcare provider.
Intrathecal Baclofen Therapy
In some cases, particularly for severe spasticity, baclofen may be administered via an intrathecal pump. This method delivers the medication directly into the spinal fluid, allowing for more targeted treatment with lower doses and potentially fewer side effects.
Common Side Effects and Precautions
While baclofen is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Understanding these potential effects is crucial for patients and caregivers.
What are the most common side effects of baclofen?
The most frequently reported side effects of baclofen include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Headache
- Insomnia
These side effects are often mild and may diminish as the body adjusts to the medication. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider.
Serious Side Effects and Warnings
While less common, some individuals may experience more serious side effects that require immediate medical attention:
- Severe drowsiness or confusion
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
- Difficulty breathing
- Unusual muscle weakness or twitching
- Signs of allergic reaction (hives, swelling of face/throat, difficulty breathing)
It’s crucial to seek immediate medical help if any of these serious side effects occur.
Interactions and Contraindications
Baclofen can interact with other medications and substances, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
What drugs and substances should be avoided while taking baclofen?
Patients taking baclofen should be cautious about or avoid:
- Alcohol: Can increase drowsiness and dizziness
- Other CNS depressants: May enhance sedative effects
- Certain antidepressants: Can potentially increase side effects
- Some blood pressure medications: May interact with baclofen’s effects
Always inform healthcare providers about all medications, supplements, and herbal products being used to prevent potential interactions.
Special Considerations for Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
The use of baclofen during pregnancy and breastfeeding requires careful consideration and should be discussed thoroughly with a healthcare provider.
Can baclofen be used during pregnancy?
Limited data is available on the effects of baclofen during pregnancy. While some studies suggest it may be safe, others indicate potential risks. The decision to use baclofen during pregnancy should be based on a careful assessment of the benefits versus the potential risks.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking baclofen?
Baclofen does pass into breast milk, and its effects on nursing infants are not fully known. Breastfeeding mothers should consult their healthcare provider to weigh the potential benefits of the medication against any possible risks to the infant.
Discontinuation and Withdrawal
Abruptly stopping baclofen can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which can be severe and potentially life-threatening in some cases.
What happens if baclofen is stopped suddenly?
Withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Increased spasticity
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
- High fever
- Altered mental status
- Muscle rigidity
To avoid these complications, baclofen should always be tapered off gradually under medical supervision.
Long-term Use and Monitoring
Patients on long-term baclofen therapy require regular monitoring to ensure ongoing effectiveness and safety of the treatment.
How is long-term baclofen use managed?
Long-term management of baclofen therapy typically involves:
- Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers
- Periodic reassessment of spasticity symptoms
- Monitoring for side effects and potential drug interactions
- Adjusting dosage as needed based on symptom control and tolerability
- Evaluating kidney and liver function, especially in older adults or those with pre-existing conditions
Ongoing communication between patients and healthcare providers is crucial for optimizing baclofen therapy and ensuring patient safety.
Alternative Treatments and Complementary Therapies
While baclofen is a primary treatment for spasticity, it’s often used in conjunction with other therapies for comprehensive management of symptoms.
What other treatments can complement baclofen therapy?
Complementary approaches to managing spasticity may include:
- Physical therapy and exercises
- Occupational therapy
- Other medications (e.g., tizanidine, dantrolene)
- Botulinum toxin injections
- Stretching and range-of-motion exercises
- Massage therapy
- Heat or cold therapy
A multidisciplinary approach often yields the best results in managing spasticity and improving overall quality of life for patients.
In conclusion, baclofen serves as a valuable tool in the management of spasticity associated with various neurological conditions. Its effectiveness in improving muscle function and reducing pain has made it a cornerstone of treatment for many patients. However, like all medications, it requires careful administration, monitoring, and consideration of individual patient factors. By understanding the uses, benefits, and potential risks of baclofen, patients and healthcare providers can work together to optimize its therapeutic potential while minimizing adverse effects.
Baclofen (Lioresal) – Side Effects, Interactions, Uses, Dosage, Warnings
uses
What is Baclofen (Lioresal) used for?
- Cerebral Spasticity
- Spinal Spasticity
- Spasticity
warnings
What is the most important information I should know about Baclofen (Lioresal)?
You should not use baclofen if you are allergic to it.
Using baclofen may increase your risk of developing an ovarian cyst. Talk with your doctor about your own risk.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, stiff muscles, or seizure may occur in the baby. If you take baclofen while pregnant or breastfeeding,
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- mental illness or psychosis;
- epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
- problems with balance;
- high blood pressure, or fast heart rate;
- a stroke or blood clot; or
- kidney disease.
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Side Effects
What are the side effects of Baclofen (Lioresal)?
Get emergency medical help if you have : hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. signs of an allergic reaction
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- severe drowsiness, breathing problems;
- confusion, hallucinations;
- muscle weakness, itching, tingling, or twitching in your hands, arms, feet, or legs; or
- fever.
- drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, or tiredness.
Common side effects may include:
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Can I take Baclofen (Lioresal) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Using baclofen may increase your risk of developing an ovarian cyst. Talk with your doctor about your own risk.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, stiff muscles, or seizure may occur in the baby. If you take baclofen while pregnant or breastfeeding,
Interactions
What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Baclofen (Lioresal)?
Avoid drinking alcohol.
Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.
Do not share this medicine with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have.
Dosage Guidelines & Tips
How to take Baclofen (Lioresal)?
Use Baclofen (Lioresal) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
What should I do if I missed a dose of Baclofen (Lioresal)?
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. take two doses at one time. Do not
Overdose Signs
What happens if I overdose on Baclofen (Lioresal)?
Overdose symptoms may include increasing drowsiness, dizziness, sleepiness, trouble focusing on objects, shallow breathing, seizure, or muscle weakness leading to loss of consciousness.
If you think you or someone else may have overdosed on: Baclofen (Lioresal), call your doctor or the Poison Control center
(800) 222-1222
If someone collapses or isn’t breathing after taking Baclofen (Lioresal), call 911
911
Baclofen | National Multiple Sclerosis Society
Baclofen | National Multiple Sclerosis Society
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About this Medication
- Brand Name:
- Chemical Name: baclofen (bak-loe-fen)
- Usage in MS: Spasticity
- Generic Available: Yes
Description
Baclofen acts on the central nervous system to relieve spasms, cramping, and tightness of muscles caused by spasticity in multiple sclerosis. It also improves muscle movement and relieves pain from spasticity.
Click here to read more about baclofen.
Brand Names
Gablofen® (intrathecal injection)
Lioresal® (intrathecal injection)
Lyvispah™ (oral granules)
Fleqsuvy™ (oral suspension)
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Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Adult Medication
Share
Provided by Lexicomp ® , this document contains all the information you need to know about this medicine, including indications, directions for use, side effects, and when your healthcare provider should be contacted.
Trade names: USA
Fleqsuvy; Gablofen; Lioresal; Lyvispah; Ozobax
Trade names: Canada
APO-Baclofen; Baclofen-10; Baclofen-20; Lioresal DS [DSC]; Lioresal Intrathecal; Lioresal [DSC]; MYLAN-Baclofen; PMS Baclofen; RATIO-Baclofen [DSC]; RIVA Baclofen
Warning
Infusion:
- Dangerous side effects have occurred when this drug was stopped abruptly. These side effects included high fever, mental status changes, increased seizures, and muscle stiffness. In rare cases, such side effects led to very severe disorders in the functioning of muscles, organs and became the cause of death. Do not stop taking this drug abruptly without talking to your doctor. Be sure to refill your pump in a timely manner and become familiar with its alarms and what to do when they are triggered. Tell your doctor if you have ever had withdrawal symptoms while taking baclofen tablets or injections. If you experience signs of withdrawal syndrome, contact your doctor immediately.
- See package insert for details.
What is this drug used for?
- It is used to treat spasms in multiple sclerosis or diseases of the spinal cord.
- This drug may also be used for other indications. Consult your doctor.
What should I tell my doctor BEFORE taking this drug?
All forms:
- If you have an allergy to this drug, any of its ingredients, other drugs, foods or substances. Tell your doctor about your allergies and how they have manifested.
Infusion:
- In case of infection.
This list of drugs and conditions that may interact with this drug is not exhaustive.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines you take (prescription and over-the-counter, natural products and vitamins) and any health problems you have. You need to make sure that this drug is safe for your conditions and in combination with other drugs you are already taking. Do not start or stop taking any drug or change the dosage without your doctor’s advice.
What do I need to know or do while taking this drug?
- Tell all your health care workers that you are taking this drug. These are doctors, nurses, pharmacists and dentists.
- Avoid driving and other activities that require increased attention until you see how this drug affects you.
- Check with your doctor before using alcohol, marijuana or other forms of cannabis, or prescription or over-the-counter drugs that can slow you down.
- Do not stop taking this drug abruptly. This may increase the risk of side effects. These may include hallucinations (when you think you see or hear something that is not there), seizures, high fever, muscle stiffness, and mental confusion. In rare cases, this could lead to organ failure and even death. If necessary, this drug should be stopped gradually, as instructed by your doctor. Tell your doctor if you develop new symptoms or if existing ones worsen.
- If the patient is a child, use this drug with caution. Children may have a higher risk of some side effects.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The benefits and risks for you and your child will need to be discussed.
- The use of this drug during pregnancy can lead to the development of withdrawal syndrome in the newborn.
Injection:
- If the drug stops working for you, tell your doctor. Do not take the drug in higher doses than prescribed by your doctor.
What side effects should I report to my doctor immediately?
WARNING. In rare cases, this drug can cause serious and sometimes deadly side effects in some patients. Call your doctor right away or get medical help if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that could be associated with serious side effects:
All editions:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red and swollen skin with blisters or peeling, possibly accompanied by fever, wheezing or wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking, unusual hoarseness, swelling in the mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat.
- Severe dizziness or fainting.
- Confusion of consciousness.
- Change in the frequency of urination.
- The onset or worsening of psychiatric disorders, mood swings, or behavioral changes.
- Seizures.
- Balance change.
Infusion:
- Vision change.
- Chest pain.
- Muscle pain or weakness.
- Rigidity of the muscles.
- Unusual sensations of burning, numbness, or tingling.
- Labored, slow or shallow breathing.
- Difficulty urinating or a change in the amount of urine produced.
- Blood in the urine.
- Swelling of the hands or feet.
- Hallucinations (a person sees or hears something that is not in reality).
- Uncontrolled body movements, jerky movements, balance problems, difficulty swallowing or speaking.
- Loss of control over eye movements.
- Feeling of abnormal heartbeat.
What are some other side effects of this drug?
Any medicine can have side effects. However, for many people, side effects are either minor or non-existent. Talk to your doctor or get medical help if these or any other side effects bother you or don’t go away:
- Feeling dizzy, drowsy, tired or weak.
- Sleep disorders.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Headache.
- Constipation.
This list of possible side effects is not exhaustive. If you have any questions about side effects, please contact your doctor. Talk to your doctor about side effects.
You can report side effects to the National Health Board.
You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You can also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
What is the best way to take this drug?
Use this drug as directed by your doctor. Read all the information provided to you. Strictly follow all instructions.
Tablets:
- Take this drug with or without food.
All liquid formulations:
- Liquid doses should be measured with caution. Use the dispenser that comes with the medication. If the dispenser is not provided in the package, ask the pharmacist for a dosing agent for this drug.
- This drug can not be measured with an ordinary teaspoon or tablespoon. This may lead to an overdose of the drug.
Liquid (suspension):
- Shake well before use.
Oral granules:
- You can put this medicine directly into your mouth. The granules will dissolve in your mouth or you can swallow them right away. If necessary, this drug can also be mixed with liquids or soft foods such as applesauce, yogurt or pudding. Add the contents of 1 sachet to 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of liquid or soft food. If your dose is more than 1 sachet, mix the dose from each individual sachet separately. This drug must be taken within 2 hours of mixing.
- This drug can be used by patients with feeding tubes. Apply as directed. Flush the feeding tube after using this drug.
Infusion:
- For insertion into the spine.
What if I miss a dose of a drug?
All oral preparations:
- Take the missed dose as soon as you can.
- If it’s time for your next dose, don’t take the missed dose and then go back to your regular dosing schedule.
- Do not take 2 doses or an additional dose at the same time.
Infusion:
- See your doctor for further instructions.
How do I store and/or discard this drug?
Tablets:
- Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom.
- If you split the tablets, you may need to throw them away after a certain amount of time. You need to know how long the divided tablets can be stored. If you are not sure, call your pharmacist.
Liquid (solution):
- Store in refrigerator. Don’t freeze.
Liquid (suspension):
- Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom.
- Throw away the unused portion of the drug 2 months after opening the package.
Oral granules:
- Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom.
Infusion:
- If you need to store this drug at home, check with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist for storage conditions.
All forms:
- Keep all medicines in a safe place. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets.
- Dispose of unused or expired drugs. Do not empty into a toilet or sewer unless instructed to do so. If you have any questions about disposing of medicines, ask your pharmacist. Drug disposal programs may be in place in your area.
General information about medicines
- If your health does not improve or even worsens, see your doctor.
- Do not give your medicine to anyone and do not take other people’s medicines.
- Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. If you have questions about this drug, talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
- Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. Check with your pharmacist. If you have questions about this drug, talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
- If you think you have overdosed, call a poison control center or get medical help right away. Be prepared to tell or show what drug you took, how much, and when it happened.
Consumer Use of Information and Limitation of Liability
This summary information includes a summary of the diagnosis, treatment, and/or drug product. It is not intended to be a comprehensive source of data and should be used as a tool to help the user understand and/or evaluate potential diagnostic and treatment options. It does NOT include all information about conditions, treatments, medications, side effects, or risks that may apply to a particular patient. It should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a physician based on a medical examination and assessment of the patient’s specific and unique circumstances. Patients should consult with their physician for full information about their health, medical issues, and treatment options, including any risks or benefits regarding the use of medications. This information is not a guarantee that a treatment or drug is safe, effective, or approved for a particular patient. UpToDate, Inc. and its subsidiaries disclaim any warranties or liabilities related to this information or its use. The use of this information is subject to the Terms of Use found at https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/know/clinical-effectiveness-terms.
Last revision date
2023-01-25
Copyright
© UpToDate, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors, 2023. All rights reserved.
Date last updated
Monday, December 12, 2022
Baclofen: Pediatric Medication | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Pediatric Medicine
Share
This document provided by Lexicomp ® contains all the information you need to know about the drug, including indications, directions for use, side effects, and when you should contact your healthcare provider.
Trade names: USA
Fleqsuvy; Gablofen; Lioresal; Lyvispah; Ozobax
Brand names: Canada
APO-Baclofen; Baclofen-10; Baclofen-20; Lioresal DS [DSC]; Lioresal Intrathecal; Lioresal [DSC]; MYLAN-Baclofen; PMS Baclofen; RATIO-Baclofen [DSC]; RIVA Baclofen
Warning
Infusion:
- Dangerous side effects have occurred when this drug was stopped abruptly. These side effects included high body temperature, mental status changes, increased seizures, and muscle stiffness. In rare cases, such side effects led to very severe disorders in the functioning of muscles, organs and became the cause of death. Do not stop taking this drug abruptly without talking to your doctor. Be sure to refill your child’s pump in a timely manner and become familiar with its alarms and what to do when they are triggered. Tell your doctor if your child has ever had withdrawal symptoms while taking baclofen tablets or injections. Contact your doctor immediately if your child develops signs of withdrawal.
- See package insert for details.
What is this drug used for?
- It is used to treat spasms in multiple sclerosis or diseases of the spinal cord.
- This drug can be given to children for other indications. Consult your doctor.
What do I need to tell the doctor BEFORE my child takes this drug?
All editions:
- If your child has an allergy to this drug, any of its ingredients, other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell the doctor about the allergy and how it manifested itself in the child.
Infusion:
- With an infection in a child.
This list of drugs and conditions that may interact with this drug is not exhaustive.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines your child is taking (prescription and over-the-counter, natural, and vitamins) and any health problems. You need to make sure that this drug is safe to use for your child’s illnesses and in combination with other drugs he or she is already taking. Do not start, stop taking, or change the dosage of any drug your child is taking without the doctor’s approval.
What do I need to know or do while my child is taking this drug?
- Tell all health care providers who care for your child that your child is taking this drug. These are your child’s doctors, nurses, pharmacists and dentists.
- Have your child avoid tasks or activities that require attention until you see how this drug works for your child. This includes cycling, playing sports, or using items such as scissors, lawn mowers, electric scooters, toy cars, or motorized vehicles.
- Alcohol can interact with this drug. Make sure your child does not drink alcohol.
- Check with your child’s doctor before using marijuana, other forms of cannabis, or prescription or over-the-counter drugs that may slow your child’s progress.
- Your child should not stop taking this drug abruptly. This can increase your child’s risk of side effects. These may include hallucinations (when you think you see or hear something that is not there), seizures, high fever, muscle stiffness, and mental confusion. In rare cases, this could lead to organ failure and even death. If necessary, the child should stop taking this drug gradually, in accordance with the doctor’s instructions. Tell the doctor if your child develops new symptoms or if existing ones get worse.
- If the patient is a child, use this drug with caution. Children may have a higher risk of some side effects.
If your daughter is pregnant or breastfeeding:
- Consult physician if your daughter is pregnant, pregnant, or breastfeeding. The benefits and risks for your daughter and her baby will need to be discussed.
- The use of this drug during pregnancy can lead to the development of withdrawal syndrome in the newborn.
Injection:
- If the drug stops working for your child, tell your child’s doctor. Do not give the drug to a child in higher doses than prescribed by the doctor.
What side effects should I report to my child’s doctor right away?
WARNING/CAUTION: Although rare, this drug can cause very serious and sometimes deadly side effects in some people. Call your child’s doctor right away or seek medical attention if your child has any of the following signs or symptoms that could be associated with a very bad side effect:
All editions:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, red and swollen skin with blisters or peeling, possibly accompanied by fever, wheezing or wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking, unusual hoarseness, swelling in the mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat.
- Severe dizziness or fainting.
- Confusion of consciousness.
- Change in the frequency of urination.
- The onset or worsening of psychiatric disorders, mood swings, or behavioral changes.
- Seizures.
- Balance change.
Infusion:
- Vision change.
- Chest pain.
- Muscle pain or weakness.
- Rigidity of the muscles.
- Unusual sensations of burning, numbness, or tingling.
- Labored, slow or shallow breathing.
- Difficulty urinating or a change in the amount of urine produced.
- Blood in the urine.
- Swelling of the hands or feet.
- Hallucinations (a person sees or hears something that is not in reality).
- Uncontrolled body movements, jerky movements, balance problems, difficulty swallowing or speaking.
- Loss of control over eye movements.
- Feeling of abnormal heartbeat.
What are some other side effects of this drug?
Any drug can cause side effects. However, for many people, side effects are either minor or non-existent. Contact your child’s doctor or seek medical attention if any of these or other side effects bother your child or if they persist:
- Feeling dizzy, drowsy, tired or weak.
- Sleep disorders.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Headache.
- Constipation.
This list of possible side effects is not exhaustive. If you have any questions about side effects, ask your child’s doctor. Talk to your child’s doctor about side effects.
You can report side effects to the National Health Board.
What is the best way to give this drug?
Give this drug to your child as directed by your doctor. Read all the information provided to you. Strictly follow all instructions.
Tablets:
- Give this drug with or without food.
All liquid formulations:
- Liquid doses should be measured with caution. Use the dispenser that comes with the medication. If the dispenser is not provided in the package, ask the pharmacist for a dosing agent for this drug.
- This drug can not be measured with an ordinary teaspoon or tablespoon. This may lead to an overdose of the drug.
Liquid (suspension):
- Shake well before use.
Oral granules:
- This medication can be put directly into the child’s mouth. The granules will dissolve in the mouth or your child may swallow them. If necessary, this drug can also be mixed with liquids or soft foods such as applesauce, yogurt or pudding. Add the contents of 1 sachet to 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of liquid or soft food. If your child’s dose is more than 1 sachet, mix the dose from each individual sachet separately. This drug must be given within 2 hours of mixing.
- This drug can be used by patients with feeding tubes. Apply as directed. Flush the feeding tube after using this drug.
Infusion:
- For insertion into the spine.
What if my child misses a dose of medication?
All oral preparations:
- Give the missed dose as soon as possible.
- If it is time for your child to take the next dose, do not take the missed dose and then go back to your child’s normal schedule.
- Do not give a double dose at the same time or additional doses.
Infusion:
- Contact your child’s doctor to find out the next steps.
How do I store and/or discard this drug?
Tablets:
- Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom.
- If you split the tablets, you may need to throw them away after a certain amount of time. You need to know how long the divided tablets can be stored. If you are not sure, call your pharmacist.
Liquid (solution):
- Store in refrigerator. Don’t freeze.
Liquid (suspension):
- Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom.
- Throw away the unused portion of the drug 2 months after opening the package.
Oral granules:
- Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom.
Infusion:
- If you need to store this drug at home, check with your child’s doctor, nurse, or pharmacist about how to store it.
All forms:
- Keep all medicines in a safe place. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets.
- Dispose of unused or expired drugs. Do not empty into a toilet or sewer unless instructed to do so. If you have any questions about disposing of medicines, ask your pharmacist. Drug disposal programs may be in place in your area.
General information about medicines
- If your child’s symptoms or health problems do not improve, or worsen, contact your child’s doctor.
- Do not share your child’s medicine with others and do not give anyone else’s medicine to your child.
- Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. If you have questions about this drug, talk with your child’s doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
- If you think you have overdosed, call a poison control center or get medical help right away. Be prepared to tell or show what drug you took, how much, and when it happened.
Consumer Use of Information and Limitation of Liability
This summary information includes a summary of the diagnosis, treatment, and/or drug product. It is not intended to be a comprehensive source of data and should be used as a tool to help the user understand and/or evaluate potential diagnostic and treatment options. It does NOT include all information about conditions, treatments, medications, side effects, or risks that may apply to a particular patient. It should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a physician based on a medical examination and assessment of the patient’s specific and unique circumstances. Patients should consult with their physician for full information about their health, medical issues, and treatment options, including any risks or benefits regarding the use of medications. This information is not a guarantee that a treatment or drug is safe, effective, or approved for a particular patient.