muscle spasm

Last reviewed 01/2018

Local measures such as warmth and massage are often effective for muscle spasm without the need for medication.

Oral muscle relaxants may sometimes be necessary:

  • Diazepam 2-10mg daily; increase if necessary (PR 5-10mg)
  • Baclofen 5mg TDS after food (gradually increase to a max total daily dose of 100mg if necessary) - starting with small doses to avoid excessive reduction of muscle tone
  • Dantrolene - see BNF for details

The summary of product characteristics must be consulted before prescribing any of the drugs mentioned.

Reference:

  1. West Midlands Palliative Care Physicians (2012). Palliative care - guidelines for the use of drugs in symptom control.