Baclofen for Hiccups: How a Muscle Relaxant Stops Persistent Hiccups
When hiccups last longer than a few days, they stop being funny and start being exhausting. That’s where baclofen, a GABA-B receptor agonist originally developed as a muscle relaxant for spinal cord injuries and multiple sclerosis. Also known as Lioresal, it’s not the first drug doctors reach for—but when standard remedies like holding your breath or sipping water fail, baclofen often steps in. Unlike antacids or sedatives, baclofen targets the root of the problem: overactive nerve signals in the diaphragm. It doesn’t just calm the spasm—it quiets the brain’s misfired command to hiccup.
Chronic hiccups aren’t just annoying. They can wreck sleep, make eating impossible, and even lead to weight loss or dehydration. Studies show that in cases where hiccups last more than 48 hours—especially after surgery, brain injury, or in people with neurological conditions—baclofen has a success rate of up to 80%. It’s not magic, but it’s one of the few drugs with real evidence behind it. The typical starting dose is 5 mg three times a day, often increased slowly if needed. Most people feel relief within a few days. But it’s not risk-free. Drowsiness, dizziness, and weakness are common. People with kidney problems or those taking other CNS depressants need extra care. This isn’t a drug you should try without medical supervision.
What makes baclofen stand out is how it fits into a bigger picture. It’s part of a group of treatments that target the nervous system, not the stomach or throat. That’s why it often works when antacids or anti-nausea pills don’t. Other options like gabapentin or chlorpromazine exist, but baclofen has fewer long-term side effects than some. It’s also one of the few drugs that works for hiccups caused by neurological damage, like stroke or MS. If you’ve tried everything else and your hiccups won’t quit, baclofen might be the missing piece.
Below, you’ll find real-world insights from people who’ve used baclofen for persistent hiccups, plus comparisons with other treatments, dosing tips, and what to watch for. These aren’t theoretical guides—they’re based on actual cases, patient reports, and clinical observations. No fluff. Just what works, what doesn’t, and how to stay safe.
Hiccups Triggered by Medications: Common Causes and Proven Remedies
Medication-induced hiccups are more common than you think, especially with steroids, opioids, and chemo drugs. Learn the top triggers, proven home remedies, and effective treatments like baclofen and chlorpromazine.
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