When discontinuing long-term Baclofen therapy abruptly, what severe reaction, distinct from standard benzodiazepine withdrawal, can occur?

Baclofen withdrawal syndrome, potentially involving hallucinations, delirium, and life-threatening hyperthermia.

Abrupt cessation of long-term Baclofen therapy, particularly when high doses have been used, carries the risk of a serious reaction known as baclofen withdrawal syndrome. This syndrome is distinct from the typical withdrawal seen with benzodiazepines. Symptoms can be severe and life-threatening, including psychological disturbances such as hallucinations and delirium, severe physical manifestations like muscle rigidity, and potentially fatal systemic events like hyperthermia (abnormally high body temperature) and seizures. Because of this significant risk, careful tapering is mandatory when discontinuing baclofen, similar to diazepam, although the underlying dependence pathway is structurally different.