First-order elimination kinetics following baclofen overdose

Abstract

We followed serial plasma baclofen concentrations in a woman who ingested more than 2 g of baclofen in a suicide attempt, the largest ingestion of baclofen reported to date. The plasma clearance of baclofen was characterized by first-order elimination kinetics with a half-life of 8.6 hours. The persistent central nervous system depression noted in our patient after the return of plasma baclofen levels to the therapeutic range is best explained by delayed clearance of baclofen from the CNS. She made a full recovery with supportive care. No evidence of saturable elimination kinetics was found.