Clonazepam

Clonazepam belongs to the group of medicines called Benzodiazepines. These drugs primarily function by enhancing the brain activity within the neurotransmitters. It is a drug that is prescribed to prevent seizures and treat panic attacks.

What are the uses of Clonazepam?

Clonazepam functions by modulating the GABA-A receptors that help in inducing calming effects on the brain and reducing the excitability of neurons. Some of the uses of Clonazepam are:

• Management of seizure disorders (status epilepticus, minor motor seizures, myoclonic seizures, grand mal epilepsies, and infantile spasms) in both adults and children
• Management of panic disorders (as a short-term treatment) and agoraphobia
• Helps in regulating acute mania
• Other uses include akathisia, restless leg syndrome, and bruxism.

How and when to take Clonazepam?

Consult a physician before taking the medication. This medication is taken orally, 2-3 times a day, as advised by the physician. The medication is to be taken at the same time each day, without fail. The tablet is usually taken with a full glass of water. An orally disintegrating tablet should be placed in the mouth and allowed to dissolve without chewing. The medication should not be taken irregularly and should not be stopped without consulting your doctor. 

If the drug causes worsening of the symptoms, the dose is to be adjusted, and this requires consultation with the physician immediately. You can also find the usage instructions on the label. However, it is important you contact your doctor in this regard.

What are the side effects of Clonazepam?

Some of the most common clonazepam side effects are- 

• Drowsiness and dizziness
• Tiredness
• Loss of concentration
• Increased salivation
• The high tendency for addiction
• Mood changes include depressive thoughts, suicidal thoughts, and other mood problems.
• Allergic Reaction (very rare)

There may be other side effects to this drug. If any side effect is persistent, please inform your physician at the earliest.

What precautions should be taken while using Clonazepam?

• Mention any allergy history to your physician, including allergies to other Benzodiazepines. 
• Mention your medical history to your physician before taking this medication. This should include information on blood disorders, eye conditions like glaucoma, kidney disorders, breathing problems, mood depression, and a history of addiction and substance abuse. 
• Consumption of alcohol along with this drug is not advisable.
• Inform your dental doctors about the use of this drug prior to any procedures.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding then please inform your doctor before taking this medicine.

What if I missed the dose of Clonazepam?

If a dose of Clonazepam is missed, take the next dose as soon as you remember it. The dose may be skipped if it is too close to the next dose. The medication is to be taken at a regular time.

What if there is an overdose of Clonazepam?

In case of an overdose, visit your doctor immediately. Also, contact the nearest hospital as soon as possible. Some of the symptoms of overdose include:

• Tendency to sleep and drowsiness
• Double vision
• Slurred speck
• Impaired motor skills.

More serious side effects include:

• Respiratory depression and hypoxemia
• Apnoea
• Hypotension
• Cardiac arrest
• Bradycardia
• Coma

The possibility of these side effects is very rare. Consult your doctor to discuss them, especially if they last for a longer period of time.

What are the storage conditions for Clonazepam?

Store the drug at room temperature. Keep away from light and moisture. Do not keep within reach of children and pets. The medicines should be properly disposed of in case of expiry.

Caution with other Medications

This drug has possible interactions with the following-

• Orlistat
• Sodium Oxybate
• Other opioid medications and muscle relaxants
• Narcotic pain medications like Oxycodone 
• Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Fluvoxamine
• Cimetidine and Ritonavir
• Other medications that can cause drowsiness like antihistamines.

If you are taking any of the medications, consult your doctor before taking the Clonazepam. Your doctor will prescribe a better alternative if required. 

How quickly does Clonazepam act?

Clonazepam, taken as a tablet, takes approximately 20-60 min to start working. The drug reaches maximum potency within 1-4 hrs. Clonazepam works very effectively for seizures and panic attacks but must be used with caution as it has a high tendency to get addictive. Consult your physician for any doubts or queries regarding the use of Clonazepam.

Clonazepam vs Diazepam



FAQs

1. What is the difference between Clonazepam and Diazepam?

Clonazepam and Diazepam are both benzodiazepine medications used to treat various conditions, including anxiety and seizures. While they belong to the same drug class, they may differ in factors like onset of action, duration, and specific indications. The choice between them depends on the individual's condition and the doctor's recommendation.

2. Is Clonazepam a sleeping medication?

Clonazepam is not primarily a sleeping medication, but it may have a sedative effect and is sometimes prescribed for sleep-related issues when other treatments are ineffective. It's not a first-line choice for sleep problems, and its use for sleep should be under medical guidance.

3. Are there any foods we should stay away from when taking Clonazepam?

There are no specific foods that you need to avoid when taking Clonazepam. However, it's crucial to avoid alcohol and maintain a healthy, balanced diet. Some foods can interact with medications, so it's wise to discuss dietary considerations with your healthcare provider.

4. Can you drink alcohol while taking Clonazepam?

It is not advisable to drink alcohol while taking Clonazepam. Alcohol can intensify the sedative effects of Clonazepam, leading to drowsiness, impaired coordination, and an increased risk of accidents or overdose. It's essential to consult your healthcare provider and avoid alcohol when using Clonazepam.

References:

https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-14403-6006/clonazepam-oral/clonazepam-oral/details https://www.drugs.com/clonazepam.html#uses
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556010/#:~:text=Clonazepam%20is%20a%20benzodiazepine%20drug,%2C%20insomnia%2C%20and%20tardive%20dyskinesia

Disclaimer: The information provided here is not meant to substitute an advice from a healthcare professional. The information is not intended to cover all the possible uses, side-effects, precautions, and drug interactions. This information is not intended to suggest that using a specific drug is suitable, safe, or efficient for you or anyone else. The absence of any information or warning regarding the drug should not be interpreted as an implicit guarantee from the organisation. We strongly advise you to consult a doctor if you have any concerns about the drug and never use the medication without a doctor’s prescription.