Clonazepam

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Rivotril (tablets/injection)

Drug group:

Benzodiazepine anticonvulsant drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Clonazepam is mainly used in the treatment of anxiety and insomnia.

It is also used as an anticonvulsant to prevent and treat epileptic seizures:

• Particularly useful in children experiencing myoclonus (brief muscle spasms) and petit mal (absence) seizures
• Useful in other forms of epilepsy - sudden flaccidity, or seizures induced by flashing lights
• It can be used alone or in combination with other anticonvulsant drugs

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Adults: initially 1mg at night, increased gradually to 4–8mg daily (maintenance dose)
• Children: Reduced dose calculated according to age and weight
• Used 1–4 x daily

How quickly will it start to work?

1–4 hours

How long will the effects last?

24–48 hours

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor. You may need to stop the drug gradually in order to avoid withdrawl symptoms.

Is it safe for prolonged use?

The long-term use of Clonazepam is limited by the fact that its anticonvulsant effect may begin to wear off after some months as the body adapts (tolerance).

Prolonged use may also lead to dependence and difficulty in withdrawing.

What are the possible side effects?

The side effects of clonazepam usually diminish after the first few days of treatment and can often be reduced by adjusting the dose.

The following have been reported:

• More common: daytime drowsiness, dizziness, unsteadiness, altered behaviour, forgetfulness, confusion, muscle weakness
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: any severe side effects

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: severe respiratory disease, liver/kidney problems, porphyria, myasthenia gravis, previous problems with drug/alcohol abuse
• Other medicines: Sedatives (anti-anxiety/sleeping drugs, antihistamines, opioid analgesics, antidepressants, antipsychotics), other anticonvulsants
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: May affect the baby if used in late pregnancy or labour, may also affect the breastfed baby
• Children: Reduced dose necessary
• Over 60: Reduced dose may be necessary
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug may cause drowsiness
• Alcohol: Avoid, enhanced sedative effects