Baclofen as a Cause of Impaired Consciousness in a Haemodialysis Patient: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Baclofen is an agonist of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor found on both the pre-and postsynaptic neurones in the central and peripheral nervous systems [1]. Binding to GABAB receptors reduces the activation of the neuronal action potentials supplying muscle spindles, resulting in muscle relaxation [2]. This effect is used therapeutically to treat muscle spasticity in conditions such as multiple sclerosis [3]. In addition, the side effects of baclofen, including dizziness and drowsiness, are thought to result from the activation of GABA receptors located in the central and sympathetic nervous systems [2].