The news was expected for a few days : The Order allowing the reimbursement of Baclofen as part of the treatment against alcohol dependence was published today in the Official Journal.
This decision follows the temporary recommendation for use (RTU) issued for this drug. last March by the National Agency for Medicines and Health Products Safety (ANSM).
Since that date, Baclofen, which was usually prescribed to treat muscle contractures (a typical use for which it is reimbursed), can also be prescribed for the treatment of alcohol dependence. But the cost could be a drag for some patients. Thanks to the decree published today, Baclofen will also be reimbursed, even if it is prescribed to treat alcohol dependence.
“France is thus the first country to recognize the reality of the use of this drug, and its effectiveness in the fight against alcoholism” declared the Minister of Health.
To date, several tens of thousands of French patients receive Baclofen in the treatment of their alcohol dependence in the following two indications:
– Helps maintain abstinence after withdrawal in alcohol-dependent patients
– Major reduction in alcohol consumption down to the low level of consumption as defined by the WHO in high-risk alcohol-dependent patients.
