Final answer:
Medical staff will monitor for baclofen withdrawal symptoms which can include increased spasticity, mood changes, insomnia, and in severe cases, delirium and hallucinations. These symptoms are the opposite effects of baclofen's muscle relaxant and CNS depressant qualities. Monitoring is crucial as sudden discontinuation of the drug can lead to serious complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a patient reports stopping baclofen suddenly, the medical provider will instruct the hospital staff to monitor for withdrawal effects. Baclofen withdrawal can include symptoms like increased spasticity, pruritus (itching), insomnia, mood changes, psychosis, exacerbation of seizure disorders, and, in severe cases, delirium and hallucinations. Because baclofen acts as a central nervous system depressant, sudden discontinuation can also lead to increased risk of complications such as higher body temperature, confusion, and rapid heartbeat. As with withdrawal from other central nervous system depressants like benzodiazepines, the withdrawal symptoms from baclofen are often opposite to the effects the drug provides, which includes reducing muscle spasticity and providing a sense of calm.