What are antispasmodics?

“Spasmolysis” refers to the resolution (“lysis”) of spasticity. Medications that reduce muscle tone are called antispasmodics. Baclofen and tizanidine are spasmolytics that are routinely used to treat ALS. These medications do not act directly on the muscles, but rather within the nervous system. They activate specific nerve cells that are responsible for reducing muscle tone.

It is quite rare for an antispasmodic to be used that acts directly on the muscles via a different mechanism. For example, the drug dantrolene reduces muscle tone by influencing calcium metabolism in the muscles. Dantrolene is somewhat more complex in terms of its administration and side effect profile, so this medication is used only in exceptional cases. Botulinum toxins can also be considered antispasmodics in a broader sense. These are medications that are administered directly into the muscle using a fine injection needle and result in a reduction in muscle tone at the injection site that lasts three to four months.

The decision to initiate antispasmodic therapy, as well as the selection of the medication and dosage, requires treatment by a specialist, preferably one with experience in specialized spasticity therapy.