What is Clonazepam?
Clonazepam, also known as Klonopin, is a drug that is used to prevent and treat epilepsy, panic attacks, and the movement disorder akathisia. It belongs to the benzodiazepine class of tranquilizers. It is taken orally. The effects start after one hour and last for six to twelve hours.
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Get A Second OpinionClonazepam Uses
- Clonazepam is a drug that is used to treat and prevent seizures.
- This drug's name is an anticonvulsant or antiepileptic drug.
- It's also used to help people who are having panic attacks.
- Clonazepam relieves anxiety by calming the brain and nerves.
- It belongs to the benzodiazepine family of drugs.
How to use Clonazepam oral
- Before starting clonazepam, read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist and consult your doctor or pharmacist for any concerns.
- Take clonazepam orally, usually 2 or 3 times per day, as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on medical condition, age, and treatment response, with children's doses determined by weight.
- To maximise benefits, take clonazepam regularly at the exact times daily. Do not increase dosage, frequency, or duration without the doctor's approval.
- Do not stop clonazepam abruptly consult your doctor to reduce dosage to avoid worsening conditions or withdrawal symptoms gradually.
- Withdrawal symptoms may occur upon sudden cessation, especially with long-term or high-dose use. Contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately if withdrawal symptoms arise.
- Long-term use of clonazepam may decrease effectiveness. If efficacy diminishes, consult your doctor.
- Clonazepam has the potential for addiction, especially in individuals with substance use disorder. Take medication as directed to reduce addiction risk.
- Initial use of clonazepam may increase seizure severity in some seizure disorders; consult your doctor promptly if this occurs. Adjustments to other medications may be necessary for seizure control.
Clonazepam Side effects
- Drowsiness
- Sedation
- Abnormal coordination
- Loss of control of bodily movements
- Depression or symptoms of depression
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Memory impairment
- Upper respiratory infection or symptoms
- Confusion
- Difficulty speaking
- Runny nose
- Coughing
- Urinary frequency
- Impotence
- Decreased libido
- Increased salivation
- Worsening tonic-clonic seizures
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Book an AppointmentPrecautions
- Inform your doctor about any allergies to clonazepam or other benzodiazepines, as well as any reactions experienced.
- Discuss your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, porphyria, liver/kidney disease, lung/breathing issues, mental/mood problems, or a history of drug/substance use disorder.
- Older adults may experience heightened effects of clonazepam, such as drowsiness and confusion, which can increase the risk of falls.
- Clonazepam should only be used during pregnancy if necessary due to the potential harm to the unborn child. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant.
- Clonazepam can pass into breast milk and may adversely affect nursing infants. Consult with your doctor if breastfeeding.
Interactions
- Drug interactions can alter the function of medications or increase the risk of severe side effects. Do not initiate, discontinue, or adjust medication dosage without your doctor's approval.
- Orlistat and sodium oxybate are medications known to interact with clonazepam.
- Consult your pharmacist to ensure all medications, including over-the-counter remedies, are checked for ingredients causing drowsiness.
- Seek guidance from your pharmacist regarding the proper use of medications causing drowsiness.
Note :
Do not offer this drug to someone else. To track your progress or check for side effects, laboratory and/or medical tests (such as liver function tests, full blood count) should be conducted on a regular basis. For more facts, speak to your doctor.
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing call a poison control center right away.
Missed Dose
If you forget to take a dose, do so as soon as you recall. If the next dose is coming, skip the skipped dose. Take the next dose at the same time every day. To catch up, do not double the dose.
Storage
Store away from light and moisture at room temperature. Keep out of the washroom. Both drugs should be kept out of sight of children and pets
Clonazepam vs Lorazepam
| Clonazepam | Lorazepam | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand name | Klonopin | Ativan |
| Drug class | Benzodiazepine | Benzodiazepine |
| Generic version | available | available |
| Forms available | Oral tablet | Oral tablet Injection |
| Standard dosage | Depending on your doctor's advice, take 0.25 mg twice a day. | Depending on your doctor's recommendation, take 1 mg twice a day. |
| Uses |
Panic disorder affects people aged 18 and up. Adults and children up to the age of ten have seizures. |
Adults and children aged 12 and up who are anxious |
