Clonazepam

Generic Name: clonazepam (kloe NAZ e pam)

Brand names: Klonopin, Klonopin Wafer

How To Take:

Take Clonazepam by mouth with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation. Swallow tablet whole with a full glass of water. If you are taking Clonazepam for the prevention of seizures, taking Clonazepam at the same times each day will help you remember to take it. Continue to take Clonazepam even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses. Clonazepam works best when there is a constant level of it in your body.

Clonazepam side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• confusion, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior;
• hyperactivity, agitation, hostility;
• unusual or involuntary eye movements;
• weak or shallow breathing;
• depressed mood, thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself;
• chest tightness, fast or pounding heartbeats;
• painful or difficult urination, urinating more or less than usual;
• pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding; or
• new or worsening seizures.

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM

Clonazepam is an anti-anxiety medication in the benzodiazepine family, the same family that includes diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), flurazepam (Dalmane), and others. Clonazepam and other benzodiazepines act by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter (a chemical that nerve cells use to communicate with each other) that inhibits brain activity.

It is believed that excessive activity in the brain may lead to anxiety or other psychiatric disorders. Clonazepam also is used to prevent certain types of seizures.

STORAGE

Tablets should be kept at room temperature, between 15?° and 30?°C (59-86?°F).

PREGNANCY

Clonazepam and other benzodiazepines have been associated with fetal damage, including congenital malformations, when taken by pregnant women in their first trimester. Clonazepam is best avoided in the first trimester and probably throughout pregnancy.