Beklo 5 mg

Description

Indications

Beklo is used for the treatment of spasticity and related conditions, including:

• Spasticity resulting from multiple sclerosis
• Flexor spasms accompanied by pain, clonus, and muscular rigidity
• Skeletal muscle spasms caused by rheumatic disorders
• Spinal cord injuries and other spinal cord diseases
• Conditions following cerebrovascular accidents or those due to neoplastic or degenerative brain diseases

Note: Always take Beklo as prescribed by a registered physician.

Pharmacology

Beklo contains Baclofen, a medication that works by inhibiting both monosynaptic and polysynaptic reflexes at the spinal cord level. This is achieved by stimulating the GABAB receptors, which reduces the release of neurotransmitters like glutamate and aspartate. Baclofen can also produce a central nervous system (CNS) depressant effect, providing relief from muscle spasticity and discomfort. Additionally, Baclofen has an antinociceptive effect, which helps in reducing pain.

Dosage and Administration

• Adults and children over 10 years: Begin with a dosage of 5 mg, taken three times daily, preferably with or after food. This can be gradually increased, with a maximum dose of 100 mg daily.

• Children under 10 years: Treatment typically starts with 2.5 mg (2.5 ml) four times a day, gradually increasing the dose as required. The recommended maintenance doses are as follows:

  • 12 months – 2 years: 10-20 mg (10-20 ml) daily
  • 2 years – 6 years: 20-30 mg (20-30 ml) daily
  • 6 years – 10 years: 30-60 mg (30-60 ml) daily

Note: Always consult with a registered physician before taking this medication.

Drug Interactions

• CNS Depressants: Concurrent use of Beklo with other central nervous system depressants, alcohol, or synthetic opiates may increase sedation and the risk of respiratory depression.

• Antihypertensive Medications: When used alongside antihypertensives, Beklo may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects. The dosage of antihypertensives should be adjusted accordingly.

• Tricyclic Antidepressants: Combining Beklo with tricyclic antidepressants may intensify the effects of Baclofen, causing increased muscle hypotonia (muscle weakness).

• Parkinson’s Disease: Patients taking Baclofen with levodopa and carbidopa (for Parkinson’s disease) may experience mental confusion, hallucinations, and other side effects.

• MAO Inhibitors: Using MAO inhibitors with Beklo may intensify CNS depression. Dosage adjustment of either medication may be necessary.

• Neuromuscular Blocking Agents: Caution is advised when taking Beklo with magnesium sulfate or other neuromuscular blocking agents, as a synergistic effect could occur.

Contraindications

Beklo is contraindicated in patients who are allergic or hypersensitive to any of the components of this medication.

Side Effects

Common side effects associated with Beklo include:

• CNS Effects: Drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, fatigue, headache, insomnia, confusion, hallucinations, muscle pain, and seizures (rare).
• Cardiovascular: Hypotension, rare dyspnoea, palpitations, chest pain, and syncope.
• Gastrointestinal: Nausea, constipation, dry mouth, and abdominal pain.
• Urinary: Urinary frequency, retention, and other genitourinary issues such as impotence or nocturia.
• Other Effects: Rash, swelling, excessive sweating, weight gain, and visual disturbances.

Serious side effects like respiratory depression, seizures, or increased spasticity may occur but are rare. Dosage adjustments may be needed to manage these side effects.

Pregnancy and Lactation

• Pregnancy Category B3: There is insufficient evidence regarding the safe use of Baclofen during pregnancy. Baclofen should only be prescribed to pregnant women if the physician believes the benefits outweigh the risks.

• Baclofen is excreted in breast milk. While the quantities are minimal, caution is recommended when using this medication during breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

• Renal Function: Use lower doses (about 5 mg per day) for patients with renal impairment or those undergoing chronic haemodialysis.

• Psychiatric Disorders: Patients with psychotic disorders (e.g., schizophrenia or manic depressive states) should be monitored closely as Baclofen may exacerbate these conditions.

• Seizure Risk: Baclofen may lower the seizure threshold, and discontinuing or overdosing on Baclofen can lead to seizures. It should be used with caution in patients with epilepsy.

• Caution in Specific Conditions: Baclofen should be carefully administered to those with peptic ulcers, cerebrovascular diseases, and hepatic, renal, or respiratory issues.

• Respiratory and Cardiovascular Function: Regular monitoring of respiratory and cardiovascular function is necessary, especially in patients with underlying heart or lung diseases.

• Bladder Issues: Baclofen may improve neurogenic bladder symptoms but can cause acute urinary retention in patients with existing sphincter hypertonia.

Overdose Effects

In the event of severe overdose, gastric lavage may be required. Symptoms of overdose include extreme drowsiness, breathing problems, and potentially life-threatening complications.

Therapeutic Class

Centrally Acting Skeletal Muscle Relaxants

Storage Conditions

Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep the medication out of the reach of children.

Note: Always use Beklo as prescribed by a registered healthcare provider.