Baclofen

[lorrainewalls]

I recently saw a neurologist. I have CA unknown (at least 19 years) and I am now getting increased, although not that frequent, muscle spasms in foot and leg at night. He has suggested taking a very small dose of Baclofen at night but I will have to see a GP. I have read about the side effects and also the many posts on HealthUnlocked. Opinion is very divided as to the benefits and as many GP's have little or no experience of Ataxia, I am not sure whether to go down the "drug" route or try a herbal alternative.

[wobblybee]

🙂 Personally, I’ve never tried Baclofen. And, I know that opinions are very much divided about whether it’s helpful or not. But as with most medications, it’s a case of trial and error, no one medication suits everybody. It may give you more pain relief than a herbal alternative, you’ll never know unless you try them both. 🙂 xBeryl

[Cubsfan]

I was diagnosed with CA 3 years ago. Bad muscle spasms in legs and feet. I take 20mg of Baclofen 3x/day. I'm otherwise healthy 57yr old male. The Baclofen has helped a great deal, especially at night with no side effects.

[12daisy]

I was baclofen, it made me go to the toilet even more. So l stopped after one month. I was told to exercise, stretching your muscles has helped my muscle spams calm down. Lorraine x

[Brommie]

Have you tried a magnesium supplement and/or spray? I had the same problem as you and find that a magnesium supplement helps. I also tried Baclofen but found it made my muscles weak.

[Litty]

Very hard, and some good replies. Personally I like to try herbal or supplements first.Turmeric helps some, magnesium others and electrolytes.

Good luck whatever you decide x

[wibblywobbly]

hi, I was on baclofen for about two years a few years ago. It helped a lot at first, but then things changed and it actually made my spasms worse, so neurologist told me to stop. I find stretching helps lots

I would recommend to try it. If it works then it's very good, but stretching needs to be done too really.

[stedman]

Hello Lorrainewalls,

Why not try a glass of warm Mik with or without sugar, I do─ but I like a slice of marmite toast with my toast. Keep your legs under the covers or wear thick bed socks. Great fun