Have you tried multiple medications for anxiety or substance use disorders without success? Do SSRIs, benzodiazepines, or typical anti-anxiety medications cause unwanted side effects like sedation, brain fog, or dependence?
Have You Heard About Baclofen?
Baclofen, traditionally known as a muscle relaxer, is a GABA-B agonist that has shown promising benefits in treating both anxiety and substance use disorders—including alcohol, opioids, and other addictive substances. Unlike benzodiazepines, which also act on GABA receptors, Baclofen does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier—meaning it can help relieve anxiety and muscle tension without excessive sedation or cognitive impairment.
How Baclofen Works
The GABA-B system plays a crucial role in mood regulation, motivation, reward processing, and anxiety control. Baclofen helps by:
✔️ Reducing alcohol and drug cravings by acting on the amygdala, the brain’s emotional center.
✔️ Easing anxiety without the drowsiness, dependence, or withdrawal risks of benzodiazepines.
✔️ Providing physical relaxation, which can be especially helpful for those who experience chronic muscle tension due to stress or anxiety.
✔️ Supporting emotional regulation, which may help reduce impulsivity and addictive behaviors.
Why Haven’t You Heard About It?
Despite its potential, Baclofen is underutilized in psychiatry. It has been available as a generic medication since the 1980s, meaning there’s little financial incentive for pharmaceutical companies to fund large-scale clinical trials—similar to the slow recognition of psychedelics in mental health treatment.
Is Baclofen Right for You?
If you’re looking for a non-sedating, non-addictive alternative for anxiety or substance use, Baclofen could be a game-changer.
📅 Let’s explore whether this could be the right treatment for you. Schedule a telehealth appointment today to learn more!