Final answer:
Antispasmodics like baclofen are medications that inhibit excitatory neurotransmitters in the central nervous system to relieve muscle spasms. Baclofen induces sedation as part of its antispasmodic effect and is commonly prescribed for conditions like multiple sclerosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Antispasmodics are a class of drugs that include baclofen, which is used to provide relief from muscle spasms. These medications work by acting on the central nervous system to induce effects that may include sedation, muscle relaxation, and relief from muscle spasticity. One of the mechanisms by which these drugs work is by inhibiting the release of certain neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit signals in the brain and nervous system.
Baclofen is specifically known to inhibit the release of excitatory neurotransmitters in the CNS, leading to its antispasmodic effects. It is often prescribed for conditions such as multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries where muscle spasms are a common symptom. When considering drugs that exert effects through sedation, it is essential to differentiate them from other types of muscle relaxants and understand their role within a therapeutic context.