Which medication is used to treat spasticity in multiple sclerosis?

Which medication is used to treat spasticity in multiple sclerosis?

• A. Baclofen
• B. Acetaminophen
• C. Ibuprofen
• D. Diazepam

Answer: (A)

Spasticity in multiple sclerosis comes from loss of normal inhibitory control over spinal reflexes, leading to increased muscle tone that can be tough to manage with movement. Baclofen works directly on the spinal cord as a GABA_B receptor agonist, silencing overactive reflex pathways and thereby reducing muscle tone. It’s effective when taken by mouth for general relief, and in more severe cases it can be delivered intrathecally via a pump for targeted control with often fewer systemic side effects. Other common medicines listed don’t treat the muscle tone itself. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen address pain or inflammation but don’t modify spasticity. Diazepam can calm muscles too, but it’s sedating and carries risk of dependence with long-term use, making it less ideal as a first-line option for ongoing MS spasticity. So baclofen is the best fit for reducing spasticity in MS.

Spasticity in multiple sclerosis comes from loss of normal inhibitory control over spinal reflexes, leading to increased muscle tone that can be tough to manage with movement. Baclofen works directly on the spinal cord as a GABA_B receptor agonist, silencing overactive reflex pathways and thereby reducing muscle tone. It’s effective when taken by mouth for general relief, and in more severe cases it can be delivered intrathecally via a pump for targeted control with often fewer systemic side effects.

Other common medicines listed don’t treat the muscle tone itself. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen address pain or inflammation but don’t modify spasticity. Diazepam can calm muscles too, but it’s sedating and carries risk of dependence with long-term use, making it less ideal as a first-line option for ongoing MS spasticity. So baclofen is the best fit for reducing spasticity in MS.