CLONAZEPAM
08 Jul 2019
Generic Name : CLONAZEPAM
ABSTRACT –
Clonazepam is a medication drug that is used to treat seizures and anxiety disorders. Classified as a benzodiapine, this anti-epileptic drug can be used to treat panic disorders, agoraphobia, seizure disorders, absence seizures or even Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, in both adults as well as children. This drug works by altering the imbalanced chemicals in the brain that are responsible for these seizure-related problems.
DOSAGE –
- Clonazepam is to be taken as directed by the doctors.
- Drug course generally does not last over 9 weeks.
- Oral tablet is to be consumed whole with one glass of water.
- This drug is not to be shared with other patients.
- General Adult Dosage available: Oral tablet – 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg
SIDE EFFECTS –
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Problems with memory
- Motor problems
RARE SIDE EFFECTS:
- Worsening seizures
- Sever drowsiness
- Irregular mood swings
- Aggression
- Hallucinations
- Suicidal thoughts/behavior
- Shallow breathing
- Heart flutters
- Involuntary eye movements
DRUG INTERACTIONS –
- Alfentanil
- Butorphanol
- Buprenorphine
- Codeine
- Dezocine
- Fentanyl
- Hydrocodone
- Levorphanol
- Morphine
- Nalbuphine
- Oxycodone
- Pentazocine
- Sufentanil
- Tramadol
MODERATE DRUG INTERACTIONS –
- Acebutolol
- Acetazolamide
- Alfuzosin
- Amiloride
- Aripiprazole
- Asenapine
- Baclofen
- Benazepril
- Betaxolol
- Bumetanide
- Carvedilol
- Efavirenz
- Ethanol
- Furosemide
- Indinavir
- Ketamine
- Mivacurium
- Tacrolimus
PRECAUTIONS –
- Provide the doctor with a detailed and accurate medical history prior to drug prescription. Notify especially in case of kidney / liver diseases, glaucoma, porphyria, asthmatic conditions, COPD, depression, other mental illnesses or the usage of a narcotic.
- Do not use this medication in case the patient is suffering from narrow-angle glaucoma, severe liver diseases or an allergic reaction to the drug.
- Clonazepam may cause difficulties for a pregnant woman and her child. It is important to consult a doctor in case the need for this drug arises while the patient is pregnant.
- Sharing this drug with another patient is prohibited, unless recommended.
- Avoid alcohol while on drug course.
WARNINGS –
- This drug may impair thinking reactions. Avoid complicated activities that demand complete concentration such as driving. Some side effects of this drug may persist in older adults than in others.
- This drug is habit-forming. It is dangerous to rely on Clonazepam than is required. In case of drug abuse or dependency, contact a doctor for help.
- Once drug course is terminated, there may be a chance of withdrawal symptoms that may include mood fluctuations and depressing thoughts.
- Keep out of reach of children. This drug is not recommended for the treatment of panic disorder in adolescents under the age of 18.
- In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include muscle weakness, confusion, fainting or coma.