April Saval1, Anthony E Chiodo. 1. Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan Hospital, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108, USA.
Abstract
BACKGROUND/ OBJECTIVE: Intrathecal baclofen is considered standard treatment for severe spasticity of spinal cord and cerebral origin. Recognized side effects include fatigue and constipation. There are few reported findings of sexual dysfunction in men and none in women. METHODS: Two case reports. RESULTS: A male and a female patient with spasticity treated with intrathecal baclofen were recognized to have sexual dysfunction side effects from treatment. On reduction of the intrathecal baclofen dose, complete return to baseline sexual function was achieved for both subjects. CONCLUSIONS: Intrathecal baclofen can impair sexual function and ejaculation in some patients. Clinicians should be aware of this risk and ask about it during routine clinic follow-up for spasticity. Dosing adjustments need to be considered in these patients.
BACKGROUND/ OBJECTIVE: Intrathecal baclofen is considered standard treatment for severe spasticity of spinal cord and cerebral origin. Recognized side effects include fatigue and constipation. There are few reported findings of sexual dysfunction in men and none in women. METHODS: Two case reports. RESULTS: A male and a female patient with spasticity treated with intrathecal baclofen were recognized to have sexual dysfunction side effects from treatment. On reduction of the intrathecal baclofen dose, complete return to baseline sexual function was achieved for both subjects. CONCLUSIONS: Intrathecal baclofen can impair sexual function and ejaculation in some patients. Clinicians should be aware of this risk and ask about it during routine clinic follow-up for spasticity. Dosing adjustments need to be considered in these patients.