A question about Medication Withdrawal...
 

First off, I was diagnosed with dystonia in the hands, arms and legs... and being such, I was prescribed Baclofen and Tramadol to manage the symptoms back in October 2011.

I have been taking about 30 to 40 mg of Baclofen every day since October, and now, after calling and leaving messages with my doctor's answering service for the last 3 days, I ran out of Baclofen this morning.

I made it plain that I was running out and today that I had run out, and still no call back. I'm worried about what to expect. I know I'm not taking a very big dosage, but I've been taking it for 4 months straight. So far I'm not feeling much worse than I normally feel, but I've read that Baclofen withdrawal can be nasty and dangerous.

Can anyone tell me some signs to look out for, or with my current dosage if I even have anything to worry about...

Any guidance on this would be greatly appreciated... I don't want to be sitting here freaking myself out over every muscle-twinge or whatever.

Again thanks for any help.

Brandon

Brandon,

You can check here, or Google: baclofen withdrawal symptoms

Keep trying your doctor; if the answering service supplies an emergency number, call that; someone should be taking his emergency calls. You might also try the pharmacy that filled the prescription. In some cases, they may be able to give you a small emergency supply. If not, they should be able to advise you in some other way.

The Tramadol may ease/lessen some of the withdrawal symptoms, but I'm not sure. Do not take more than you are supposed to. Try to keep yourself occupied/distracted instead of constantly thinking/worrying about it.

If something serious does occur, like seizure, hallucinations, or losing consciousness, get to an emergency room, but DO NOT drive yourself; have someone else drive you or call an ambulance. Prepare a list of everything you're taking, how much, and the last time you took it.

You may come through this fine, or with some minor discomfort, but better to be prepared.

Doc

Hi ~ Baclofen is usually given for muscle spasms, etc. When you stop abruptly, you CAN experience seizures so please keep trying your doctor's office, or else GO TO the doctor's office!! Like Dr. Smith said, sometimes the Pharmacy will give you a few to tide you over until you can get a new Rx. You might check with them. Next time make sure you call well ahead so you don't run out again. ;)

I wish you the very best --- please take care & God bless. Hugs, Lee