Baclofen overdose: A curious case of medical sales representative

Abstract

In this case report, a medical sales representative consumed 250 mg of Baclofen out of curiosity. Baclofen has life‐threatening complications like seizures, respiratory depression, and coma. A majority of patients recover on symptomatic treatment. Baclofen has a great potential for abuse and overdose; therefore, its use must be strictly monitored.

Acute psychosis following baclofen overdose

“…26 Case reports for baclofen-induced psychosis exist but are sparse in the literature and include presentations at therapeutic baclofen dosages, 27 on induction and followi n g b a c l o f e n o v e r d o s e . 6,28,29 Baclofen overdose in dosages above 200mg is more likely to result in intubation and ITU admission, with the possible complication of delirium. 16 Baclofen withdrawal can occur in the context of abrupt cessation of baclofen, with greater vulnerability in people who have received chronic baclofen treatment.…”

“…Case reports for baclofen‐induced psychosis exist but are sparse in the literature and include presentations at therapeutic baclofen dosages, 27 on induction and following baclofen overdose 6,28,29 . Baclofen overdose in dosages above 200mg is more likely to result in intubation and ITU admission, with the possible complication of delirium 16 .…”

Baclofen from an ‘anti-craving’ agent to ‘craved for’ drug: A case report

“…Parallel to the increase in Baclofen’s use as an anti-craving agent, an increase in cases of prescription high-dose abuse, recreational use cases, and intentional self-harm using Baclofen have also increased. [ 7 - 10 ] At dosages up to 60 mg it produces euphoria but acute ingestion of up to 200 mg in a few hours produces lethargy, confusion, and somnolence. Dosages above 200 mg can present with generalized tonic-clonic or myoclonic seizures, cardiac arrhythmias, respiratory failure, loss of brainstem reflexes, encephalopathy requiring mechanical ventilation, and even death.…”