Baclofen withdrawal following removal of an intrathecal baclofen pump despite oral baclofen replacement

Prolonged administration of intrathecal baclofen in a patient with generalized grade 4 tetanus

INTRODUCTION

This case report presents the management of a 62-year-old woman with generalized grade 4 tetanus, focusing on the innovative use of intrathecal baclofen (ITB) therapy. The patient initially presented with a laceration and subsequently developed severe tetanic spasms, necessitating interventions beyond standard tetanus immunoglobulin and antibiotics due to the condition's progressive and life-threatening nature. The preference for ITB over oral baclofen is highlighted, considering ITB's enhanced bioavailability in the central nervous system and its efficacy in reducing spinal cord reflexes, which is critical for managing severe spasticity.On her return to the emergency department with symptoms of tetanus, the patient received ITB following the failure of oral baclofen to control the spasms. ITB administration necessitated a lumbar drain, which was later substituted with a tunneled intrathecal catheter due to the extended requirement for baclofen infusion and the unavailability of suitable infusion pumps. This scenario represented a significant application of a CADD-Solis external pump for continuous ITB infusion.Transitioning the patient from ITB to oral baclofen was a crucial management step to facilitate discharge and recovery, underscoring the importance of a careful approach to prevent withdrawal symptoms and maintain care continuity. Despite initial complications, including an infection signaled by leucocytosis and confirmed through cerebrospinal fluid culture, the patient was effectively treated and discharged.

CONCLUSION

This report contributes to the sparse literature on prolonged ITB use for generalized grade 4 tetanus treatment, underlining the need for interdisciplinary collaboration for the best patient outcomes. It showcases the potential of ITB in spasticity management, in reducing the need for sedation, and in shortening the duration of mechanical ventilation, advocating for a tailored approach that utilizes a full spectrum of pharmacological and supportive therapies.

Management of an intrathecal baclofen pump pocket empyema caused by a proximal vesicocutaneous fistula: A case report

Background

Intrathecal baclofen infusing pumps are nowadays commonly implanted in patients suffering from severe, intractable spasticity with a background of multiple sclerosis. Although intrathecal baclofen therapy is considered a safe therapeutic modality, complications are unavoidable and broadly categorized as mechanical and infectious. In the instance of a pump pocket infection, a surgical explanation of the pump is often necessary to treat the infection.

Case Description

We present the rare case of a 60-year-old woman who was admitted emergently to our clinic with a subcutaneous pump pocket empyema caused by proximal vesicocutaneous fistulas. The patient underwent explantation of the pump and otherwise had an uncomplicated perioperative course.

Conclusion

The surgical explanation of the baclofen pump and antibiotic treatment were sufficient to treat the pump pocket empyema in this instance. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a pump pocket empyema formed in the proximity of a vesicocutaneous fistula.

Intrathecal baclofen efficacy for managing motor function and spasticity severity in patients with cerebral palsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Spasticity can significantly affect a patient's quality of life, caregiver satisfaction, and the financial burden on the healthcare system. Baclofen is one of only a few options for treating spasticity. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of intrathecal baclofen (ITB) therapy on severe40.23 spasticity and motor function in patients with cerebral palsy.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review in PubMed, Scopus, Ovid, and the Cochrane Library in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. We included studies based on eligibility criteria that included desired participants (cerebral palsy patients with spasticity), interventions (intrathecal baclofen), and outcomes (the Ashworth scales and the Gross Motor Function Measure [GMFM]). The within-group Cohen's d standardized mean differences (SMD) were analyzed using the random effect model.

RESULTS

We screened 768 papers and included 19 in the severity of spasticity section and 6 in the motor function section. The pre-intervention average spasticity score (SD) was 3.2 (0.78), and the post-intervention average score (SD) was 1.9 (0.72), showing a 40.25% reduction. The SMD for spasticity reduction was - 1.7000 (95% CI [-2.1546; -1.2454], p-value < 0.0001), involving 343 patients with a weighted average age of 15.78 years and a weighted average baclofen dose of 289 µg/day. The SMD for the MAS and Ashworth Scale subgroups were - 1.7845 (95% CI [-2.8704; -0.6986]) and - 1.4837 (95% CI [-1.8585; -1.1088]), respectively. We found no relationship between the participants' mean age, baclofen dose, measurement time, and the results. The pre-intervention average GMFM (SD) was 40.03 (26.01), and the post-intervention average score (SD) was 43.88 (26.18), showing a 9.62% increase. The SMD for motor function using GMFM was 0.1503 (95% CI [0.0784; 0.2223], p-value = 0.0030), involving 117 patients with a weighted average age of 13.63 and a weighted average baclofen dose of 203 µg/day. In 501 ITB implantations, 203 medical complications were reported, including six new-onset seizures (2.96% of medical complications), seven increased seizure frequency (3.45%), 33 infections (16.26%), eight meningitis (3.94%), and 16 cerebrospinal fluid leaks (7.88%). Delivery system complications, including 75 catheter and pump complications, were also reported.

CONCLUSION

Despite the risk of complications, ITB has a significant impact on the reduction of spasticity. A small but statistically significant improvement in motor function was also noted in a group of patients.

Position-Dependent Intrathecal Baclofen System Catheter Failure Resulting in Debilitating Spasticity: A Case Report

An intrathecal baclofen pump (ITB) can provide significant relief from excessive spasticity and pain that is difficult to control. However, it is not without its drawbacks. We present a case of a young quadriplegic male who underwent ITB pump placement, suffering four years of transient episodes of severe spasticity with withdrawal symptoms. Multiple adjustments were made to his ITB pump dosing without relief. Extensive workup including interrogation of the pump, serial abdominal radiographs, and fluoroscopic catheter dye study revealed no abnormalities. Intraoperatively, it was discovered that the initial catheter anchoring occurred directly adjacent to the vertebrae, leading to a position-dependent catheter occlusion. He underwent the replacement of his ITB pump and catheter. During surgical revision, emphasis was placed on reducing the length of the catheter outside the spine, anchoring to the supraspinous fascia with avoidance of bony prominences or post-laminectomy sites. After surgery, the patient's spasticity improved, and at the eight-month follow-up, he had no complications, resulting in a mean baclofen dose of 300.2 μg/day. This report highlights the potential risk of life-threatening intrathecal baclofen withdrawal secondary to postural changes, providing technical considerations to prevent recurrences. It also raises awareness regarding patients who are more susceptible to transient catheter occlusion after a spinal cord injury.

Multiple Electroencephalogram Recordings for Monitoring the Evolution of Neurological Complications during Baclofen Withdrawal Syndrome

Baclofen withdrawal syndrome represents a clinical emergency that can lead to life-threatening complications. It is often a diagnostic challenge because of its nonspecific nature of presentation and degree of symptom overlap with other clinical diseases. Electroencephalography (EEG) might provide important supporting evidence when neurological complications are involved. We present the case of a 55-year-old woman with sudden onset of motor manifestations at the limbs and an altered mental status 24 hours after cessation of intrathecal baclofen administration, following the removal of the pump due to infection, in whom a computed tomography did not show any acute-onset brain injuries, and multiple EEG recordings were performed. The first EEG showed the presence of bilateral sharply contoured waves, in the absence of epileptic discharges and seizures. No correlation between motor manifestations and EEG changes were detected. This EEG pattern was considered to be the expression of an overexcitation of the central nervous system (CNS) due to the loss of baclofen inhibitory effects, excluding an epileptic origin of motor manifestations. Another EEG, performed 24 hours later, showed the presence of triphasic waves with severe generalised slowing, suggesting the presence of encephalopathy. The last EEG, performed 48 hours after the previous recording, when a recovered state of consciousness was already present, showed regression of the triphasic waves and a reorganisation of the background activity. In our case, repeated EEG evaluation allowed monitoring the evolution of acute encephalopathy developed during baclofen withdrawal syndrome, from the initial phase of CNS hyperexcitability, through the phase of metabolic encephalopathy, and to its resolution. This modality allowed for optimising the diagnostic-therapeutic management of the patient during her stay in the intensive care unit.

In Support of Initial Parenteral Medical Management of Intrathecal Baclofen Withdrawal in Spasticity Patients

Background: Spasticity may present as a wide range of symptoms and conditions. With this protean presentation, a consensus regarding the best course of treatment does not exist. Those patients most severely affected may receive significant benefit from intrathecal baclofen delivery. However, this therapy may itself lead to patient injury in the event of withdrawal. Objective: Withdrawal from intrathecal baclofen may devolve rapidly into a situation in which the patient may incur significant morbidity and even death. A focused, prompt treatment plan would afford the patient the best possible outcome. Methods: The medical literature was reviewed for reports of plans of treatment of baclofen withdrawal and the results obtained. The nature of this problem does not lend itself to a typical study design, depending on case reports and basic pharmacological science application. The paucity of such reports severely limits categorical comparison of patient characteristics and clinical circumstances. Clinical situations, patient characteristics, and therapies were considered and compared. Outcomes of the varied treatments were evaluated for efficacy. Results: Inaccurate diagnoses, delayed correct diagnoses, and the absence of a consistent, treatment plan contributed to widely disparate outcomes. Prompt, correct diagnosis and intensive care unit-based continuous benzodiazepine infusion with titration led to a controlled clinical situation and maximized patient outcomes. Conclusions: Patients going through withdrawal from intrathecal baclofen achieved best outcomes when treated with a continuous infusion and titration of an intravenous benzodiazepine. A well-defined treatment protocol employing this management, reporting serial outcomes, would enable further refinement of the treatment of this clinical problem.

Baclofen bridging, weaning protocol and pain management of a person with T6 paraplegia who required removal of intrathecal baclofen pump due to wound infection

Intrathecal baclofen is recognised as an effective treatment option for severe symptoms of segmental spasticity after spinal cord injury. We present our experience of a case of a patient who was admitted to our centre for elective intrathecal baclofen pump revision surgery, but postsurgical complications of a blocked catheter and subsequent wound infections meant the pump had to be removed. In this case, treatment of severe spasticity and nociceptive pain was required while avoiding potentially lethal side effects of sudden baclofen withdrawal. We suggest an effective bridging and weaning protocol for oral drug titration to treat spasticity and pain as a blended syndrome in this challenging situation.

Baclofen therapeutics, toxicity, and withdrawal: A narrative review

Baclofen is an effective therapeutic for the treatment of spasticity related to multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and other spinal cord pathologies. It has been increasingly used off-label for the management of several disorders, including musculoskeletal pain, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and alcohol use disorder. Baclofen therapy is associated with potential complications, including life-threatening toxicity and withdrawal syndrome. These disorders require prompt recognition and a high index of suspicion. While these complications can develop following administration of either oral or intrathecal baclofen, the risk is greater with the intrathecal route. The management of baclofen toxicity is largely supportive while baclofen withdrawal syndrome is most effectively treated with re-initiation or supplementation of baclofen dosing. Administration of other pharmacologic adjuncts may be required to effectively treat associated withdrawal symptoms. This narrative review provides an overview of the historical and emerging uses of baclofen, offers practical dosing recommendations for both oral and intrathecal routes of administration, and reviews the diagnosis and management of both baclofen toxicity and withdrawal.

Simultaneous explantation and implantation of intrathecal pumps: a case series

OBJECTIVE

Intrathecal drug delivery devices (IDDDs) are a mainstay in the treatment of spasticity and refractory pain. While these devices have been shown to greatly improve the quality of life for patients, they also have a high perioperative complication and failure rate. A major complication of IDDD implantation is infection. The current standard of care in the treatment of IDDD infection necessitates that the pump be explanted and the infection treated prior to implantation of a new IDDD. This process leads to long hospital stays, interruptions in optimal medical management, and a high risk for dangerous drug withdrawals. The authors describe a technique that allows for the explantation of the infected pump and implantation of a new pump concurrently, which they have named the "Turner Switch" technique in honor of its inventor.

METHODS

The authors conducted a retrospective analysis of cases of infected IDDDs in which patients underwent simultaneous explantation of the infected pump and implantation of a new pump. Demographics and clinical data were collected.

RESULTS

Data from a total of 17 patients (11 male, 6 female) who underwent simultaneous IDDD explantation and implantation to treat infections were analyzed from a 3-year period. No patients experienced infection of the newly implanted pump or catheter. Of the 17 patients, 14 (82.4%) had baclofen pumps to treat spasticity and 3 (17.6%) had fentanyl pumps to treat chronic pain. The median hospital stay was 7 days, with 16 of 17 (94.1%) patients able to be discharged home or to a facility with a level of care similar to their preoperative care. All patients ultimately experienced complete resolution of their initial infections. Five patients (29.4%) required a return to the operating room within the next 5 months (for repair of a CSF leak in 2 cases, for treatment of infection at the old pump site in 2 cases, and for treatment of a CSF leak compounded with infection in 1 case). No patient experienced infection of the newly implanted pump or catheter.

CONCLUSIONS

IDDD infections represent a large portion of morbidity associated with these devices. The current standard of care for deep pump infections requires pump explantation and a course of antibiotics prior to reimplantation of the IDDD. The authors demonstrate the effectiveness of a procedure involving simultaneous explantation of an infected pump and implantation of a new pump on the contralateral side in the treatment of IDDD infections.

A Novel Approach to Avoid Baclofen Withdrawal When Faced With Infected Baclofen Pumps

BACKGROUND

Intrathecal (IT) Baclofen is beneficial for spasticity, but if pumps become infected necessitating removal, baclofen withdrawal is difficult to manage and life-threatening. Furthermore there is no consistency between dosing and severity of withdrawal. Case reports detail full baclofen withdrawal at dosages of 260 μg/day.

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate that in patients on stable IT baclofen for prolonged periods, externalizing a patient's original IT pump is a safe, effective way to wean IT doses.

METHODS

Here, we describe a technique of continuing IT baclofen when urgent pump removal is needed. Specifically, we remove the infected pump. Then using a new or existing lumbar drain based on extent of infection, we reconnect the pump after cleaning with betadine and administer therapy externally during IT weaning.

RESULTS

Hundred forty seven baclofen pumps were implanted or replaced within four years. Infections occurred in seven patients. We utilized this technique in five of seven patients. Mean IT dose at time of explant was 400.5 ± 285.3 μg/day. We titrated the dose by 20-50% per day based on clinical response over a mean of 6.2 ± 1.3 days. The catheter was removed at bedside once weaning was complete. No patients had any signs of withdrawal, excluding minimal spasticity increases while optimizing oral treatment.

CONCLUSION

Here, we show preliminary evidence that an externalized IT pump is an effective means of weaning IT baclofen when infection of the pump occurs. This treatment strategy warrants further investigation, but appears to be a safe and effective.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

Dr. Pilitsis is a consultant for Medtronic, Boston Scientific, Nevro, Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Neurobridge Therapeutics, and Abbott and receives grant support from Medtronic, Boston Scientific, Abbott, Nevro, Jazz Pharmaceuticals, GE Global Research and NIH 1R01CA166379. She is medical advisor for Centauri and Karuna and has stock equity. Dr. Sukul receives consultant fees from Medtronic. Julia Prusik receives grant support from Jazz Pharmaceuticals.

Baclofen systemic toxicity: Experimental histopathological and biochemical study

OBJECTIVE

The present study was designed to highlight the toxic impact of baclofen on both biochemical and histopathological aspects in rats' liver, gastric, lung, kidney, and brain tissues.

METHODS

The study was performed on 30 healthy adult male albino rats divided into four groups with 5 rats in each control group, and 10 rats in either experimental groups (two experimental and two control groups). Five rats (negative control) were kept in a quite non-stressful environment, provided with food ad libitum and free access to water. Normal saline (1 ml) was given orally as placebo in the positive control group ( n = 5). Experimental group III, baclofen acute toxicity group (10 rats): Each animal received a single dose of lethal dose (LD₅₀) of baclofen orally by gavage. It equals 145 mg/kg body weight. The rats were observed for acute toxicity manifestations as well as for LD₅₀ deaths. Group IV, (baclofen-dependent group, 10 rats): Each animal received baclofen (1/10th LD₅₀) in gradually increasing doses for 1 month.

RESULTS

The levels of blood urea nitrogen, creatinine kinase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, γ-glutamyl transpeptidase, cardiac troponin I, and prothrombin time in both baclofen-treated groups showed significant elevation when compared to controls. There were brain, lung, gastric, hepatic, and renal histopathological changes in baclofen-treated rats whose severity varied between the two experimental groups.

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

Baclofen toxicity is an under diagnosed emergency. Physicians should consider baclofen toxicity in users having hepatorenal dysfunction, presenting with altered mental status, bradycardia, and hypotension.

Baclofen Pumps: Uses and Complications

Intrathecal baclofen therapy, given via an implanted pump in the abdominal wall either as a continuous infusion or bolus dosing, has been used for more than 25 years to treat the spasticity and dystonia associated with various brain and spinal cord conditions. Pediatric clinicians occasionally encounter baclofen pumps, and in the pediatric setting, significant morbidity can arise from their use. This article presents the background, mechanism of action, uses, and complications of intrathecal baclofen therapy and discusses various management strategies should complications occur.

Oral Baclofen Withdrawal Resulting in Progressive Weakness and Sedation Requiring Intensive Care Admission

Baclofen is a common medication used as a muscle relaxant and antispasmodic. Baclofen-withdrawal syndrome has many symptoms such as sedation, somnolence, and weakness but can include psychological symptoms. We present a 62-year-old female whose oral baclofen was not continued at a skilled nursing facility after discharge following inpatient surgery that led to the development of altered mental status and respiratory insufficiency necessitating intensive care unit admission. Abrupt cessation of baclofen, no matter the mode of administration to the patient, can lead to baclofen-withdrawal syndrome.

Dexmedetomidine for acute baclofen withdrawal

BACKGROUND

Intrathecal baclofen is widely accepted as a treatment option for severe spasticity through its γ-Aminobutyric acid-B (GABAB ) agonist properties. Abrupt cessation can lead to severe and life-threatening withdrawal characterized by altered mental status, autonomic dysreflexia, rigidity, and seizures. This symptomatic presentation is similar to alcohol withdrawal, which is mediated by modification of GABAA expression. Use of the α2-adrenergic agonist dexmedetomidine for the treatment of ethanol withdrawal has been widely reported, raising the question of its potential role in baclofen withdrawal. We present a case of the successful treatment of acute severe baclofen withdrawal with a dexmedetomidine infusion.

METHODS

A 15-year-old patient with spastic quadriparesis and cerebral palsy underwent unexpected removal of his baclofen pump due to an infection that was encountered during a planned pump revision. Following removal, he was placed on high dose enteral baclofen every 6 h. Despite further benzodiazepine supplementation, he had progressive hemodynamic instability, severe rebound spasticity, and intermittent spontaneous clonus consistent with baclofen withdrawal. A dexmedetomidine infusion was titrated to a peak dose of 16 mcg per hour with successful treatment of withdrawal symptoms.

RESULTS

The patient became normotensive without tachycardia. Tone and agitation improved.

CONCLUSION

Dexmedetomidine is to our knowledge a previously unreported option for treatment of acute severe baclofen withdrawal. We report a case of safe and efficacious use in a patient with spastic quadriparesis on chronic intrathecal baclofen. Scientifically rigorous comparison with other options remains to be performed.

Spinal Surgery and Abrupt Intrathecal Baclofen Withdrawal

Abrupt cessation of intrathecal baclofen can lead to a serious withdrawal syndrome. The anesthesiologist must be prepared to avoid intraoperative interruption of baclofen delivery before starting spinal surgery and to recognize and treat the symptoms of baclofen withdrawal in the immediate postoperative period.

Baclofen pump catheter leakage after migration of the abdominal catheter in a pediatric patient with spasticity

The authors report an unusual case of intrathecal baclofen withdrawal due to the perforation and subsequent leakage of a baclofen pump catheter in a patient with spastic cerebral palsy. A 15-year-old boy underwent an uncomplicated placement of an intrathecal baclofen pump for the treatment of spasticity due to cerebral palsy. After excellent control of symptoms for 3 years, the patient presented to the emergency department with increasing tremors following a refill of his baclofen pump. Initial evaluation consisted of radiographs of the pump and catheter, which appeared normal, and a successful aspiration of CSF from the pump's side port. A CT dye study revealed a portion of the catheter directly overlying the refill port and extravasation of radiopaque dye into the subfascial pocket anterior to the pump. During subsequent revision surgery, a small puncture hole in the catheter was seen to be leaking the drug. The likely cause of the puncture was an inadvertent perforation of the catheter by a needle during the refilling of the pump. This case report highlights a unique complication in a patient with an intrathecal baclofen pump. Physicians caring for these patients should be aware of this rare yet potential complication in patients presenting with baclofen withdrawal symptoms.

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of intravenous baclofen in dogs: a preliminary study

Abrupt discontinuation of baclofen therapy is associated with a clinically serious withdrawal syndrome. Current treatment modalities are often ineffective. Intravenous (IV) baclofen is a potential method for preventing or treating baclofen withdrawal syndrome.

OBJECTIVES

To complete a preliminary study of IV baclofen in dogs.

METHODS

Single bolus IV doses (0.5, 2 and 3 mg/kg) as well as multiple dose regimens were evaluated. Sedation and clinical tolerability was assessed by modified Glasgow Coma Scale and Discomfort and Behaviour Scale.

KEY FINDINGS

Baclofen concentration-time profiles following single IV boluses were best fit by a two-compartment model which was used to predict plasma concentrations for the multiple dose regimens. The mean distribution and elimination half-lives were 11 min and 222 min, respectively. Maximum clinical effect did not occur until approximately 120 min. The discomfort score increased proportionately with increased single IV bolus doses. Multiple dose regimens resulted in greater than proportionate discomfort scores based on total dose and were generally not as well tolerated.

CONCLUSIONS

If projected for human use, our data suggests that initial IV baclofen doses will need to be reduced by approximately one-third of the usual oral dose, and clinicians should observe patients for several hours before administering subsequent doses.

Long-term outcomes of continuous intrathecal baclofen infusion for treatment of spasticity: a prospective multicenter follow-up study

Long-term outcomes of 115 patients treated with continuous intrathecal baclofen infusion are reported. A prospective follow-up study was conducted in eight centers. Patients were followed up over a 12-month period. The follow-up scores on the three spasticity scales (Ashworth, spasm, and clonus scales) were significantly lower at every follow-up visit in comparison to the intake score, except for the clonus scale scores at 12 months. Improvements in health-related quality of life (EQ-5D) and functionality (SIP-68, functional independence measure) were small and nonsignificant. A significant reduction in severity of self-reported personal problems rating scale was observed. Sixty-six patients had no adverse events. Types of adverse events reported were wound complications (22%), catheter problems (36%), cerebrospinal fluid leakage (25%), and other complications (17%). Intrathecal baclofen reduces spasticity and severity of patient-reported problems but its effect on quality of life and functionality is less apparent. Improvements are desired in selection criteria, design of spinal catheters, and outcome scales.

Efficacy and tolerability of baclofen in substance use disorders: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

It has been reported that baclofen, a drug used in the treatment of spasticity, reduces the severity of withdrawal symptoms and substance use disorders (SUDs) for some psychoactive drugs.

AIMS AND METHODS

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of baclofen in the treatment of withdrawal syndrome and/or SUDs, providing (1) an outline of its pharmacological features; (2) a summary of studies that have suggested its possible effectiveness in the treatment of SUDs, and (3) a review of randomized, controlled trials (RCTs) on baclofen and SUDs.

RESULTS

Baclofen tolerability is generally considered to be good. Eleven RCTs investigated its effectiveness in the treatment of SUDs. Of these, 5 RCTs found that baclofen is effective, 5 RCTs found that it is ineffective and the results of 1 RCT were not appreciable because it did not achieve the preplanned level of participation.

CONCLUSIONS

The number of RCTs on baclofen and SUDs is still low, and their results are divergent. Further RCTs should be undertaken, particularly with higher doses of baclofen. Its administration may be suggested in patients who fail to respond to other approved drugs or who are affected by liver disease that prevents their administration, or in patients affected by SUDs for which no approved drugs are available. Treatment should be conducted under strict medical supervision.

Management of acute overdose or withdrawal state in intrathecal baclofen therapy

STUDY DESIGN

Individuals who are treated with intrathecal Baclofen (ITB) pump delivery system for intractable spasticity can suffer from severe morbidity as a result of acute overdose or withdrawal of ITB, which can also be life threatening. Current literature has a number of single case studies with different approaches to the management in such states.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this article is to consolidate available evidence and develop treatment pathways for acute ITB overdose and withdrawal states.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and the Cochrane Library databases using the keywords 'intrathecal', 'baclofen', 'withdrawal', 'overdose' to identify studies (published up to December 2010) that focused on presentation or treatment of acute overdose and withdrawal state in ITB therapy. Only original articles in English involving adult population were included.

RESULTS

Initial search revealed 130 articles. After reading the abstract, 13 studies on ITB overdose and 23 studies on ITB withdrawal were deemed suitable for inclusion. All studies were either single-case studies or case series.

CONCLUSION

Acute ITB overdose is managed with immediate cessation of baclofen delivery through the system, reducing the baclofen load by cerebrospinal fluid aspiration and by providing supportive treatment in an intensive care setting. There is no specific antidote for reversing overdose symptoms. Acute ITB withdrawal is managed by restoring the delivery of ITB, providing supportive care in an intensive care setting and using drugs like low dose propofol or benzodiazepines in selected cases. Early involvement of ITB physicians is strongly recommended.

Acute intrathecal baclofen withdrawal: a brief review of treatment options

BACKGROUND

Acute baclofen toxicity and withdrawal can present with a constellation of symptoms making differentiation between these two entities and other potential diagnoses challenging. Baclofen withdrawal is associated with numerous complications which may require neurocritical care expertise such as respiratory failure, refractory seizures, delirium, and blood pressure lability.

METHODS

Case report and literature review.

RESULTS

This case report discusses a case of intrathecal baclofen (ITB) withdrawal, focusing on the differential diagnosis for acute baclofen withdrawal and reviews the various options that exist to treat the symptoms of acute baclofen withdrawal such as benzodiazepines, propofol, skeletal muscle relaxants, and tizanidine.

CONCLUSIONS

Critical care practitioners should be prepared to treat this potentially devastating and often refractory complication of ITB therapy.

Prevention of intrathecal baclofen withdrawal syndrome: successful use of a temporary intrathecal catheter

Abrupt cessation of intrathecal baclofen (ITB) administration can cause a life-threatening withdrawal syndrome that requires prompt diagnosis and urgent treatment. The current therapy for this condition is administration of propofol, benzodiazepines, paralytics and supportive care. This study reports a 53-year-old patient with paraplegia with an ITB infusion who presented with an infected pump site. The pump and the catheter were surgically removed and replaced with a temporary externalized intrathecal catheter. The ITB infusion was tapered and simultaneously substituted with progressively higher doses of oral antispasmotics. With this strategy, we were able to avoid life-threatening complications.

Intrathecal baclofen for autonomic instability due to spinal cord injury

Autonomic dysreflexia may occur following spinal cord injury above mid-thoracic level, commonly developing in the early posttraumatic period. Cardiovascular dysregulation is the most prominent feature, characterized by paroxysmal high blood pressure attacks, which are precipitated by distension of urinary bladder or bowels, skin wounds, or increased spastic muscle tone. Severe drops in blood pressure may occur in orthostatic conditions. Baclofen is effective for treating spasticity. While orally administered baclofen often fails to alleviate severe spasticity adequately, intrathecal baclofen (ITB) is more effective and thus is being used increasingly. A 61-year-old male sustained a cervical spinal cord injury, subsequently developing severe spastic tetraparesis, predominantly in the legs. Some 30 years later he experienced marked spasms of the muscles of the abdominal wall, leading to extreme fluctuations of blood pressure. After positive evaluation with ITB the patient underwent implantation of a pump-catheter-system for continuous ITB application. Abdominal wall spasms ceased entirely with a daily dose of 190 microg ITB, accompanied by a sustained normotensive blood pressure profile. However, spasms reoccurred after inadvertent reduction of ITB flow when increasing the pump's ITB concentration but subsided again when the optimal antispastic dose was reestablished. Baclofen per se has the potential of lowering blood pressure. In this patient, however, ITB treatment enabled permanent stabilization of insidious blood pressure fluctuations. It would appear that suppression of abdominal spasms prevented the triggering of dysautonomic crises. This case demonstrates that ITB administration may help to stabilize autonomic dysreflexia and orthostatic hypotension in patients with spinal cord lesions.

Reversible cardiomyopathy complicating intrathecal baclofen withdrawal: a case report

This case report is about reversible cardiomyopathy associated with intrathecal baclofen withdrawal. Previous literature has reported that enteral baclofen does not adequately control intrathecal baclofen withdrawal. In our case, coronary atherosclerosis did not play a role in the development of the cardiomyopathy. However, reinstitution of intrathecal baclofen promptly resulted in improvement. One could hypothesize that myocardial stunning from sympathetic hyperactivity led to a similar cardiomyopathy reported with catecholamine excess or acute sympathomimetic poisoning.

Intrathecal pumps

Direct neuroaxis drug delivery has expanded the physician's armamentarium to provide treatment options to those who have failed more conservative interventions. Starting from Bier's 'cocainization of the spinal cord' in 1898, direct nervous system pharmacy delivery has long been recognized as an effective means to treat pain. Intrathecal pump systems are now commonplace in the management of numerous pain states, as well as of neuromuscular sequelae of central nervous system injury. There has been much advancement in the physiologic and pharmacologic understanding of direct neuromodulation, providing a growing number of treatment options depending on the specific disease state. As well, surgical techniques and catheter systems have undergone refinements providing improved long-term safety and efficacy. We present a review of the historical evolution to current intrathecal therapies, as well as a dialog regarding patient selection, drug options, and side effects. Also, included is a discussion of surgical techniques, current delivery options and complications concerning pump placement.

Intravenous diazepam infusion in the management of planned intrathecal baclofen withdrawal

Intrathecal baclofen is used in the management of spasticity associated with cerebral palsy (CP). Sudden cessation of intrathecal baclofen may give rise to the potentially life-threatening baclofen withdrawal syndrome. We report three cases in which intravenous diazepam is used effectively in the management of planned intrathecal withdrawal. All three patients had CP. In the first patient, a 19-year-old male with quadriplegia, the intrathecal catheter had to be removed. The other two patients, an 11-year-old female with diplegia and a 16-year-old male with quadriplegia, both required the entire device to be removed. The purpose of this case report is to illustrate the potential management for elective cases in a similar situation.

Chemically Induced Seizures

Drug- and toxin-associated seizures (DTS) may result from exposure to a wide variety of agents. Most DTS can be managed with supportive care. First-line anticonvulsant therapy should include benzodiazepines, unless agents require a specific antidote. Phenytoin is generally not expected to be useful for DTS and in some instances may be harmful. In this article the authors discuss the pathophysiology of DTS, the potential differential diagnosis, and the clinical presentation. They also review selected agents that cause DTS and provide an overview of how the clinician should approach the management of patients who have DTS.

Delirium Associated With Baclofen Withdrawal: A Review of Common Presentations and Management Strategies

The authors reviewed 23 published cases of psychiatric symptoms in association with baclofen withdrawal. Delirium, and not other functional psychiatric conditions, arose secondarily from abrupt baclofen cessation. Vulnerability to baclofen-withdrawal delirium appeared to be greater in individuals who received chronic baclofen therapy. Baclofen-withdrawal delirium can be difficult to distinguish from delirium of other etiologies, and unrecognized and inadequately treated baclofen-withdrawal delirium is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Complete resolution of delirium symptoms was possible with reinstatement of baclofen. The clinical management of patients experiencing baclofen-withdrawal delirium includes supportive interventions to reduce complications of delirium until symptoms resolve.

Drug- and toxin-associated seizures

Drug- and toxin-associated seizures may result from exposure to a wide variety of agents. Obtaining a comprehensive history behind the exposure is generally more helpful than diagnostic testing. Most DTS may be managed with supportive care, including benzodiazepines, except in the case of agents that require a specific intervention or antidote.

Prolonged intrathecal baclofen withdrawal syndrome. Case report and discussion of current therapeutic management

The authors describe a patient who experienced a prolonged course of intrathecal baclofen withdrawal syndrome after removal of an implantable baclofen pump for treatment of pump infection and meningitis. The current literature outlines management options for the acute management of this syndrome. In this report the authors discuss the long-term presentation of this syndrome and suggest a treatment strategy for management of the syndrome. A 37-year-old man who presented with a baclofen pump infection and meningitis experienced acute onset of intrathecal baclofen withdrawal syndrome 12 hours after the pump had been surgically removed. The patient's symptoms evolved into a severe, treatment-refractory withdrawal syndrome lasting longer than 1 month. Oral baclofen replacement with adjunctive administration of parenteral gamma-aminobutyric acid agonists only served to stabilize the patient's critical condition throughout his hospital course. Replacement of the baclofen pump and restoration of intrathecal delivery of the medication was necessary to trigger the patient's dramatic recovery and complete reversal of the withdrawal syndrome within approximately 48 hours. These findings indicate that a more direct method of treating infected baclofen pumps than immediate surgical removal is necessary to prevent the onset of intrathecal baclofen withdrawal syndrome. Various options for preventing the onset of the syndrome while simultaneously treating the infection are discussed.

A benefit-risk assessment of baclofen in severe spinal spasticity

Baclofen is used for treatment of the spasticity of spinal origin that is a common sequela of spinal cord injury and multiple sclerosis; spasticity occurs in about 50% of patients affected by these disorders. In open-label studies of oral baclofen, the drug improved spasticity in 70-87% of patients; additionally, improvement in spasms was reported in 75-96% of patients. In double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled trials, baclofen was reported to be effective, producing statistically significant improvements in spasticity. Tizanidine is the antispasticity drug that has been most widely compared with oral baclofen; studies have generally found the two drugs to have equivalent efficacy. However, tizanidine has better tolerability, in particular weakness was reported to be occur less frequently with tizanidine than with baclofen. The main adverse effects of oral baclofen include: sedation or somnolence, excessive weakness, vertigo and psychological disturbances. The incidence of adverse effects is reported to range from 10% to 75%. The majority of adverse effects are not severe; most are dose related, transient and/or reversible. The main risks of oral baclofen administration are related to withdrawal: seizures, psychic symptoms and hyperthermia can occur. These symptoms improve after the reintroduction of baclofen, usually without sequelae. When not related to withdrawal; these symptoms mainly present in patients with brain damage and in the elderly. The limited data on baclofen toxicity in patients with renal disease suggest that administration of the drug in these persons may carry an unnecessarily high risk. Intrathecal baclofen is indicated for use in patients with spasticity of spinal origin unresponsive to treatment with maximum doses of oral baclofen, tizanidine and/or dantrolene. The benefits of continuous intrathecal baclofen infusion have been demonstrated: >80% and >65% of patients have improvement in tone and spasms, respectively. The main risks of intrathecal baclofen infusion are symptoms related to overdose or withdrawal; the latter is more important because of the associated severe effects on clinical status and the possibility of death, but it is responsive to rapid treatment. Overdose primarily arises from drug test doses or human error during refill and programming of the pump, and withdrawal most commonly occurs as a result of a problem with the delivery system. Since the adverse consequences do not exceed the benefits of oral and intrathecal baclofen for patients with spinal spasticity, the benefit/risk assessment is favourable.

Intrathecal baclofen withdrawal syndrome- a life-threatening complication of baclofen pump: a case report

Background

Intrathecal baclofen pump has been used effectively with increasing frequency in patients with severe spasticity, particularly for those patients who are unresponsive to conservative pharmacotherapy or develop intolerable side effects at therapeutic doses of oral baclofen. Drowsiness, nausea, headache, muscle weakness, light-headedness and return of pretreatment spasticity can be caused by intrathecal pump delivering an incorrect dose of baclofen. Intrathecal baclofen withdrawal syndrome is a very rare, potentially life-threatening complication of baclofen pump caused by an abrupt cessation of intrathecal baclofen.

Case presentation

A 24-year-old man with a past medical history of cerebral palsy and spastic quadriparesis developed hyperthermia, disseminated intravascular coagulation, rhabdomyolysis, acute renal failure and multisystem organ failure leading to a full-blown intrathecal baclofen withdrawal syndrome. Intrathecal baclofen pump analysis revealed that it was stopped due to some programming error. He was treated effectively with supportive care, high-dose benzodiazepines and reinstitution of baclofen pump.

Conclusion

The episodes of intrathecal baclofen withdrawal syndrome are mostly caused by preventable human errors or pump malfunction. Educating patients and their caregivers about the syndrome, and regular check-up of baclofen pump may decrease the incidence of intrathecal baclofen withdrawal syndrome. Oral baclofen replacement may not be an effective method to treat or prevent intrathecal baclofen withdrawal syndrome. Management includes an early recognition of syndrome, proper intensive care management, high-dose benzodiazepines and prompt analysis of intrathecal pump with reinstitution of baclofen.