Pharmacotherapy of Spasticity: Oral Medications and Intrathecal Baclofen

Spasticity is a common problem in children with neurologic impairment, particularly in those with cerebral palsy. Clinicians commonly make use of oral medications to attempt to reduce spasticity and increase function. Little has been published in the literature concerning the use of these medications in children and their effects on both muscle tone and function. This article is a review of the sites of action, side effects, and efficacy of benzodiazepines, baclofen, dantrolene sodium, alpha 2 -adrenergic agonists, and gabapentin. A brief review of intrathecal baclofen is included as well. (J Child Neurol 2001;16:31-36).