Pediatric Neurology Practice Test 2025 – Complete Exam Prep Guide

Baclofen is a medication that is specifically designed to manage spasticity, especially in conditions like cerebral palsy. It is a muscle relaxant that works by acting on the central nervous system to inhibit excessive muscle contractions. In children with cerebral palsy, spasticity can cause stiff and tight muscles, leading to pain and difficulty with movement. Baclofen helps to reduce this spasticity, improving motor function and overall quality of life for these children.

While medications like Ritalin and Adderall are stimulant medications typically used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), they do not address muscle tone or spasticity issues. Clonidine, although it may have some sedative effects and can be used in various conditions, is primarily used for ADHD and certain types of pain management, rather than specifically targeting spasticity.

Thus, the selection of Baclofen as the correct answer reflects its primary function of managing spasticity specifically related to cerebral palsy, making it an essential part of the treatment plan for affected children.