Can't find Baclofen? Learn about proven alternatives like Tizanidine, Dantrolene, Cyclobenzaprine, and Diazepam that your doctor may prescribe instead.
Being told your pharmacy doesn't have Baclofen in stock is more than an inconvenience — for many patients, it's a medical concern. Baclofen is a critical medication for managing muscle spasticity caused by multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and other neurological conditions. Going without it isn't just uncomfortable; it can be dangerous.
If you can't find Baclofen at your pharmacy and need a temporary solution, your doctor may recommend an alternative medication. In this article, we'll cover what Baclofen is, how it works, and the most common alternatives that your healthcare provider might consider.
Baclofen is a skeletal muscle relaxant that works by activating GABA-B receptors in the spinal cord and brain. GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a neurotransmitter that helps calm nerve activity. When Baclofen binds to GABA-B receptors, it reduces the release of excitatory neurotransmitters and increases inhibitory signals. The result is less muscle stiffness, fewer spasms, and reduced pain.
Baclofen is FDA-approved for treating reversible spasticity associated with:
It's also used off-label for conditions like trigeminal neuralgia, intractable hiccups, GERD, and alcohol use disorder. The typical oral dose ranges from 40 to 80 mg per day, taken in three divided doses. For more details, see our guide on what Baclofen is and how to take it.
If Baclofen is unavailable, there are several alternative medications your doctor may consider. Each works differently, so the best choice depends on your specific condition, medical history, and other medications you're taking.
What it is: Tizanidine is a centrally acting muscle relaxant and an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. It's one of the most commonly prescribed alternatives to Baclofen for spasticity.
How it works: Tizanidine reduces spasticity by increasing presynaptic inhibition of motor neurons in the spinal cord. It decreases the release of excitatory amino acids that trigger muscle tightness.
What it's used for: FDA-approved for managing spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries — the same primary indications as Baclofen.
Key differences from Baclofen:
Cost: Generic Tizanidine is affordable, typically $8 to $25 for a 30-day supply with a discount coupon.
What it is: Dantrolene is a direct-acting skeletal muscle relaxant. Unlike Baclofen and Tizanidine, which work in the central nervous system, Dantrolene acts directly on the muscle fibers.
How it works: Dantrolene interferes with calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum inside muscle cells, which reduces muscle contraction strength and spasticity.
What it's used for: FDA-approved for spasticity from upper motor neuron conditions including spinal cord injury, stroke, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis. Also used to treat malignant hyperthermia.
Key differences from Baclofen:
Cost: Generic Dantrolene capsules range from $30 to $80 for a 30-day supply.
What it is: Cyclobenzaprine is a centrally acting muscle relaxant that's structurally related to tricyclic antidepressants. It's one of the most widely prescribed muscle relaxants in the United States.
How it works: Cyclobenzaprine reduces muscle spasms by acting primarily within the brainstem to decrease motor neuron activity. It does not act directly on muscles.
What it's used for: FDA-approved for short-term relief (2–3 weeks) of muscle spasms associated with acute musculoskeletal conditions. It is not FDA-approved for spasticity from neurological conditions like MS, though some doctors may prescribe it off-label.
Key differences from Baclofen:
Cost: Generic Cyclobenzaprine is very affordable — often $4 to $15 for a 30-day supply.
What it is: Diazepam is a benzodiazepine that has muscle relaxant, anti-anxiety, and anticonvulsant properties. It's sometimes used for spasticity when other options aren't available or effective.
How it works: Diazepam enhances the effect of GABA at GABA-A receptors (different from Baclofen's GABA-B action), increasing inhibitory signaling in the brain and spinal cord to reduce muscle tone.
What it's used for: FDA-approved for anxiety, seizures, muscle spasms, and alcohol withdrawal. Used off-label for spasticity management.
Key differences from Baclofen:
Cost: Generic Diazepam is affordable, typically $4 to $20 for a 30-day supply.
Never stop Baclofen or start an alternative medication without your doctor's guidance. Baclofen withdrawal can cause serious symptoms including seizures, hallucinations, and a dangerous condition called withdrawal syndrome. Your doctor needs to:
While Baclofen is a highly effective medication for spasticity, it's not the only option. If you can't find Baclofen in stock, talk to your doctor about whether Tizanidine, Dantrolene, Cyclobenzaprine, or Diazepam might work as a temporary or long-term substitute.
In the meantime, use Medfinder to check which pharmacies near you have Baclofen available right now. And for tips on saving money on your prescription, check out our savings guide.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before changing medications.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
Try Medfinder Concierge FreeMedfinder's mission is to ensure every patient gets access to the medications they need. We believe this begins with trustworthy information. Our core values guide everything we do, including the standards that shape the accuracy, transparency, and quality of our content. We’re committed to delivering information that’s evidence-based, regularly updated, and easy to understand. For more details on our editorial process, see here.
%2C%20Color%3DOriginal.png)
