Intrathecal Baclofen (ITB) Pump FAQ

What is an intrathecal baclofen (ITB) pump?
It’s a small device that goes under the skin of your child’s belly. The pump puts medicine called “baclofen” into the fluid around your child’s spinal cord, which relaxes tight muscles (called “spasticity”). Your child’s doctor will program the pump to give the right amount of medicine.

What is intrathecal baclofen?
This is a medicine that helps muscles relax. It is used when tight muscles are caused by problems in the brain or spinal cord - and puts the medicine into the fluid around the spinal cord.

What are the common side effects of baclofen?
Some children may feel sleepy, dizzy or sick to their stomach. Other possible side effects include low blood pressure, headaches, weak muscles or seizures. Like other medicines, getting too much or stopping it too quickly can be harmful.

Why use an intrathecal baclofen (ITB) pump?

• Your child won’t need as much medicine. When baclofen is taken by mouth, it’s a higher dose that may cause more side effects. The pump puts medicine straight into the fluid around the spinal cord, so a lower dose is needed that may result in fewer side effects.
• The ITB pump is adjustable. The doctor sets the pump to give the right dose for your child and can change it as needed.
• The pump provides long-term help. It won’t cure the tightness or the medical condition that causes it, but it can provide long-term management to help your child move better.
• It’s reversible: If needed, the pump can be turned off or taken out.