For a client with multiple sclerosis who is starting baclofen, which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Avoid activities that require alertness until CNS effects of the drug are known.
• B. Increase caffeine intake to counter drowsiness.
• C. Stop the medication if you experience mild dizziness without talking to a clinician.
• D. Take the medication on an empty stomach.

Answer: (A)

Baclofen can depress the central nervous system, so drowsiness, dizziness, and fatigue are common, especially when starting or increasing the dose. The safest and most important instruction is to avoid activities that require alertness until you know how the drug affects the patient. This helps prevent accidents like falls or impaired driving during the period when CNS effects are most pronounced. In addition, the drug isn’t required to be taken on an empty stomach and caffeine isn’t a proven fix for drowsiness, while stopping the medication for mild dizziness without medical guidance isn’t appropriate. If adverse effects are persistent or severe, the clinician should be informed.