Clonazepam - oral


Patient Medicine Information
Why do I need this medicine?
Clonazepam is used on its own or together with other medicines to treat epilepsy (also known as fits or seizures) in adults and children.

This medicine may also be used to treat panic attacks with or without fear of places or situations that might cause intense fear or discomfort.
How do I take this medicine?
Take Clonazepam exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.

Clonazepam is available as a conventional tablet, orally disintegrating tablet or an oral solution.

If you are taking the conventional tablet, swallow it with a glass of water.

If you are taking the orodispersible tablet:
  1. Remove it from the foil only just before you take it. Do not leave the orodispersible tablet exposed to air. Do not push the orodispersible tablet through the foil as it is fragile and easily broken.
  2. Remove the orodispersible tablet with dry hands by peeling the backing off the foil and tipping the tablet onto your dry hands.
  3. Place the orodispersible tablet directly on your tongue as soon as it is taken out of the foil. The orodispersible tablet will immediately start to melt on the tongue. It can then be swallowed with or without water.
If you have been given the oral solution, use the spoon or dropper supplied with each bottle to measure out your dose. Refer to the package insert for directions on how the spoon or dropper should be used. Certain concentrations of the oral solution may or may not be mixed with water. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist to check if your medicine may be mixed with water.

The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on your condition and response to the medication.

Clonazepam must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it suddenly as this may worsen your condition.
What should I do if I have forgotten to take this medicine?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
When should I not use this medicine?
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
  • certain type of glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye) known as acute narrow-angle glaucoma
  • severe breathing problems
  • short-term lung disease
  • sleep apnoea syndrome (sleep disorder that causes interrupted breathing during sleep)
  • myasthenia gravis (muscle weakness disorder)
  • severe or significant liver disease
  • problems with alcohol or drug use
as Clonazepam may not be suitable for you.
What should I take note of while taking this medicine?
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
  • depression
  • history of suicidal ideation or attempt
  • certain type of glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye) known as open-angle glaucoma
  • long-term lung disease e.g. chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (long-term lung disease that causes airflow obstruction making it hard to breathe)
  • porphyria (an inherited disorder that causes skin or nervous system abnormalities)
  • difficulty in controlling or coordinating movements
  • history of alcohol or drug dependence or abuse
  • kidney disease
  • mild to moderate liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Clonazepam to a child, the elderly or a debilitated individual (physically or mentally weak, usually due to illness or old age). Children, elderly and debilitated people may be more sensitive to the side effects.

Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?

Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
  • Routine tests (e.g. complete blood count, liver and renal function tests) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
  • Regular monitoring for signs of depression, suicidal thoughts, or behavioural changes may also be needed.
What side effects could I experience?
Clonazepam may cause drowsiness, dizziness or blurred vision. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert or need to see clearly.

Other side effects include any of the following: headache, constipation, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, muscle weakness, increased salivation, hair loss, and difficulty coordinating movements.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
  • having thoughts of self-harm
  • confusion and hallucinations (seeing, hearing or feeling things that are not existent)
  • unusual changes in mood or behaviour (being too depressed, agitated, or having compulsive and impulsive behaviour)
  • severe drowsiness with breathing difficulties
  • memory loss
  • unusual behaviours during sleep that may not be remembered the next morning e.g. sleep-driving, making phone calls, cooking or eating food
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Can I take this with other medicines?
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
  • other medicines for fits or seizures e.g. valproic acid, phenytoin, phenobarbital
  • strong painkillers e.g. oxycodone, morphine
  • medicines to treat depression
  • medicines for sleep disorders
  • medicines for anxiety
  • medicines for mood disorders
  • cimetidine (medicine that reduces stomach acid production)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Clonazepam.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Avoid alcohol.
How should I store this medicine?
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

The conventional tablet and oral solution must be protected from light.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
This information is independently developed by MIMS based on clonazepam - oral and is provided for your reference only. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and/or the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2024 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com
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