Which skeletal muscle relaxant is administered intrathecally?

Baclofen is the skeletal muscle relaxant that is administered intrathecally. This method of administration involves delivering the medication directly into the spinal canal, allowing for targeted effects on the spinal cord. Baclofen acts as a GABA-B receptor agonist, which helps to reduce muscle spasticity by inhibiting neuronal excitability. Intrathecal administration allows for lower doses of baclofen to be used more effectively, minimizing systemic side effects that could occur with oral or intravenous administration.

This route is particularly beneficial for patients with severe spasticity, such as those with multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injuries, where systemic muscle relaxants may not provide sufficient relief or may lead to significant adverse effects. Baclofen's effectiveness at the spinal level, when administered this way, helps to manage muscle tone and improve overall function with a more favorable safety profile.