Clonazepam
Information about Clonazepam
Clonazepam uses
Clonazepam is used in the treatment of anxiety disorder and epilepsy/seizures.
How clonazepam works
Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine. It works by increasing the action of a chemical messenger (GABA) which suppresses the abnormal and excessive activity of the nerve cells in the brain.
Common side effects of clonazepam
Depression, Dizziness, Drowsiness, Fatigue, Memory impairment, Agitation, Blurred vision, Constipation, Headache, Muscle weakness, Skin rash, Sleep disturbance, Sleepiness, Urinary retention, Abnormal behavior, Cognitive impairment, Abnormality of voluntary movements, Nervousness, Upper respiratory tract infection, Allergic reaction, Influenza, Pain during periods, Difficulty in speaking, Emotional lability, Decreased libido, Change in body weight, Edema (swelling), Hypotension (low blood pressure), Migraine, Paresthesia (tingling or pricking sensation), Abdominal discomfort, Upset stomach, Vertigo, Infection, Acne, Discomfort when urinating, Eye irritation, Visual disturbance, Palpitations, Hair loss, Decreased appetite, Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Decreased white blood cell count (lymphocytes), Low blood platelets, Hepatomegaly (enlarged liver), Increased liver enzymes, Dehydration, Fever, Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), Psychosis, Excitation, Irritability, Aggression, Hostility, Anxiety, Nightmares, Vivid dreams, Hypotonia (decreased muscle tone), Abnormal eye movements, Nystagmus (involuntary eye movement)
Available Medicine for Clonazepam
Expert advice for Clonazepam
- The addiction / habit-forming potential of this medicine is very high. Take it only as per the dose and duration advised by your doctor
- It may cause dizziness. Do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how this medicine affects you.
- Avoid consuming alcohol as it may increase dizziness and drowsiness.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding.
- Inform your doctor if you experience worsen anxiety, depression angry, or violent behavior and mania while taking this medicine.
- Do not stop taking medication suddenly without talking to your doctor as that may lead to nausea, anxiety, agitation, flu-like symptoms, sweating, tremor, and confusion.
Frequently asked questions for Clonazepam
Clonazepam
Q. Is Clonazepam a sleeping pill?
Clonazepam belongs to a class of medicines called benzodiazepines and is used to treat anxiety, stop seizures (fits) or relax tense muscles. This can also help relieve difficulty sleeping (insomnia), and is usually prescribed for a short period of time, if used to treat sleeping problems. You should take it in the dose and duration advised by the doctor.
Q. Does Clonazepam cause sleepiness? If yes, then should I stop driving while taking Clonazepam?
Yes, Clonazepam causes drowsiness very commonly. It also causes forgetfulness and affects muscular function which may adversely affect your ability to drive. Sometimes, drowsiness persists even on the following day. So, in case Clonazepam makes you sleepy and affects your alertness, you should avoid driving.
Q. For how long should I take Clonazepam?
The duration of treatment with Clonazepam is mainly as short as possible. Your doctor will evaluate you after 4 weeks of treatment in order to assess the need for continuation of treatment, especially if you do not have any symptoms. Before taking you off this medicine, your doctor may gradually decrease your dose to prevent any withdrawal side effects. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to get the most benefit.