A client on baclofen reports ongoing weakness and fatigue after starting therapy. How should the nurse respond?

A client on baclofen reports ongoing weakness and fatigue after starting therapy. How should the nurse respond?

• A. Discontinue the medication immediately
• B. Fatigue is a sign of intolerance and requires dose reduction
• C. Continue medication but monitor closely for worsening symptoms
• D. Weakness and fatigue commonly occur and will diminish with continued medication use

Answer: (D)

Baclofen often causes central nervous system–related side effects such as weakness and fatigue, especially when therapy is started. These effects are common and usually diminish as the patient continues taking the medication and the body adapts. The best approach is to acknowledge that this is a known early reaction, reassure the patient, and keep the regimen under regular monitoring rather than stopping the drug right away. Emphasize safety (avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if drowsy) and watch for any signs that the symptoms persist or worsen, which would prompt a clinician review for possible dose adjustment or alternative strategies. The idea is that these symptoms tend to improve over time, rather than indicating an immediate need to discontinue.

Baclofen often causes central nervous system–related side effects such as weakness and fatigue, especially when therapy is started. These effects are common and usually diminish as the patient continues taking the medication and the body adapts. The best approach is to acknowledge that this is a known early reaction, reassure the patient, and keep the regimen under regular monitoring rather than stopping the drug right away. Emphasize safety (avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if drowsy) and watch for any signs that the symptoms persist or worsen, which would prompt a clinician review for possible dose adjustment or alternative strategies. The idea is that these symptoms tend to improve over time, rather than indicating an immediate need to discontinue.