TGA issues baclofen warning to doctors in response to overdose deaths

The antispasmodic can help but only in rare cases, says Dr Hester Wilson.
Rachel Fieldhouse
Dr Hester Wilson
Dr Hester Wilson.

The TGA is urging caution with off-label baclofen prescribing for alcohol use disorder in the wake of coronial inquiries into two deaths.

While elevated suicide risk with baclofen is known for patients with psychiatric disorders, the regulator is now warning the risk of intentional or unintentional overdose is “particularly pronounced” with off-label prescribing at higher doses.