Spastiline

Spastiline is a term found in some medical texts to denote agents with spasmolytic properties—drugs that reduce muscle spasticity. It is not the name of a single medication and is not standardized in major pharmacopoeias. In practice, spastiline describes a class of drugs rather than one compound.

Spasmolytic drugs act to decrease hyperexcitability of motor pathways, either by actions on the central nervous system, spinal reflexes, or peripheral muscles. Mechanisms vary by compound and can include enhancement of inhibitory neurotransmission, reduced excitation of motor neurons, or interference with calcium signaling in muscle cells. Real-world examples span several mechanistic categories, such as GABAergic agents (for example, baclofen, which acts on GABA-B receptors; benzodiazepines), agents that modulate spinal reflexes (like tizanidine, an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist), and others that affect calcium handling (such as dantrolene).

Spastiline is used conceptually in the management of spasticity associated with various conditions, including multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, stroke, and cerebral palsy. Treatment aims to lower involuntary muscle tone while preserving voluntary movement and function, often combining pharmacologic therapy with physical rehabilitation.

Safety and regulatory considerations: spasmolytic drugs have differing side effect profiles. Common issues include drowsiness, dizziness, and weakness; some agents carry risks such as liver toxicity or hypotension, requiring medical supervision and sometimes dose adjustments.

See also: Spasticity; Spasmolytic; Baclofen; Tizanidine; Dantrolene; Diazepam.