baclofen

noun

bac·​lo·​fen ˈbak-lō-ˌfen How to pronounce baclofen (audio)
: a gamma-aminobutyric acid analog C10H12ClNO2 used as a relaxant of skeletal muscle especially in treating spasticity (as in multiple sclerosis)

Examples of baclofen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Approved medications in the antispastics group include baclofen and dantrolene. — Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 10 June 2023 Other treatments, such as rituximab, also clear antibodies, while others relieve the symptoms, including baclofen or Valium (diazepam). — Ed Stannard, Hartford Courant, 9 Dec. 2022

Word History

Etymology

perhaps from beta + chloro- + -fen, altered from phenyl, parts of the compound's systematic name

First Known Use

1971, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of baclofen was in 1971

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Cite this Entry

“Baclofen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/baclofen. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.

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Medical Definition

baclofen

noun
bac·​lo·​fen ˈbak-lō-ˌfen How to pronounce baclofen (audio)
: a gamma-aminobutyric acid analog C10H12ClNO2 used as a relaxant of skeletal muscle especially in treating spasticity (as in multiple sclerosis)
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