Pharmacologie du baclofène et utilisation chez le patient alcoolo-dépendant. Une mise au point à l'usage du clinicien

Baclofen is an old drug (1962), with an initial indication in neurology (muscle relaxant and anti-spastic). The empirical use of baclofen in alcohol dependence shows promising results in some studies. Baclofen may be an effective treatment in consumption reduction strategies for alcohol-dependent patients but this effectiveness is not scientifically demonstrated to date. Baclofen is not hepatotoxic and can be administered to patients with hepatic impairment. Many side effects are described at therapeutic doses. There is a risk of withdrawal symptoms when baclofen is stopped abruptly. Severe poisoning have been described in excessive intake of baclofen. There is no antidote, but in cases of severe intoxication hemodialysis is an effective treatment.