Topic Discussion: Baclofen and ESRD

Baclofen is often used as a muscle relaxant in many patients. It has a half life of 3-7 hours and 80% excreted by the kidneys.  It is extremely important to dose adjust in CKD and avoid use in ESRD patients. Dialysis is a good mechanism to remove the agent as well in-case of ingestions and overdoses.

A recent case published in AJKD highlights this important drug related interaction in CKD and ESRD patients. 

The authors describe two excellent clinical algorithms.

The first algorithm discusses dose adjustments.
If GFR>90, no dose adjustment necessary
If GFR 60-90, decrease initial dose by 1/3
If GFR 30-60, decrease dose by ½ and watch for mental status changes
If on RRT or GFR<30, avoid use

The second algorithm discusses if there is a known baclofen toxicity( seizures, hypotenia, encephalopathy, etc.)

If severe AKI, CKD or ESRD- start daily HD or CRRT
If normal renal function or mild AKI but with respiratory depression or seizures- start daily HD or CRRT
If normal renal function or mild AKI and no severe symptoms- no dialysis