CLONAZEPAM 1 MG | CAZIN MD – 1

Clonazepam is used in the treatment of fits due to epilepsy, panic disorder, and involuntary muscle spasms. It comes under a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. The drug works by increasing the level of a chemical known as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain which reduces the excess and abnormal activity of nerve cells. It is also useful in relaxing the tense muscles thereby successful in the treatment of involuntary muscle spasms and panic attacks. Clonazepam also decreases anxiety, and nervousness and produces a calming effect. People struggling with anxiety and chronic stress are usually prescribed clonazepam to relieve their symptoms.

Clonazepam is a habit-forming drug. Therefore, one should follow the dosage prescribed by their doctors, and on observing any withdrawal symptoms such as seizures rush to their doctors.  The tablets should not be crushed, chewed, or beaten; they should be swallowed whole with water. If you are allergic to clonazepam or any benzodiazepine class of drugs, avoid its usage and consult your doctor for better alternatives. Clonazepam tablets can induce a wide range of side effects. Thus, be attentive while consuming the tablets and immediately rush to the doctor for any visible signs of a symptom. Let’s discuss the uses, side effects, drug interaction, and precautions of clonazepam tablets.

Uses of Clonazepam Tablets

The Clonazepam tablets are used in the treatment of the following illnesses:

• Seizures
• Panic disorder
• Involuntary muscle spasms
• Restless leg syndrome
• Anxiety

Side effects of Clonazepam Tablets

Clonazepam can have moderate to severe side effects depending on the age, lifestyle, and presence of other health conditions. Usually, the symptoms resolve over time and require no medical attention. However, if the side effects persist or get severe, immediate medical attention is required. Some common and severe side effects of clonazepam tablets are:

Common Side Effects

• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Allergic reaction
• Influenza
• Pain during periods
• Difficulty in speaking
• Decreased libido
• Depression
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Fatigue
• Memory impairment
• Blurred vision, Constipation
• Sleepiness
• Cognitive impairment
• Abnormality of voluntary movements
• Nervousness

Severe Side Effects

• Agitation
• Headache
• Muscle weakness
• Skin rash
• Sleep disturbance
• Urinary retention
• Vertigo

This is not an exhaustive list as there might be more side effects.

Drug Interactions 

When a drug negatively reacts with another drug, food item, or any substance, this tendency is called a drug interaction. The mixing may nullify the efficacy of drugs or can produce an unpleasant effect.

Drug-Drug Interaction:

• Opioid analgesic medications
• Medications used to lower blood pressure
• Antipsychotic medications
• Anesthesia medications
• Antidepressant medications
• Acidity medicine
• Antibiotic medicines
• Anticonvulsants

Drug-food Interaction: Avoid consuming alcohol and caffeine.

Drug-disease Interaction:

• Acute alcohol intoxication
• Closed-angle glaucoma
• Drug dependence
• Respiratory depression
• Renal/liver disease
• Suicidal tendency
• Depression
• Obesity
• Paradoxical reactions

Precautions and Warnings

1. Do not self-medicate as Clonazepam leads to dependence. Thus, the dosage should be prescribed by the doctor.

2. If you have suicidal tendencies, avoid taking clonazepam tablets at all costs as they worsen the condition.

3. The medicine causes drowsiness, thus avoid driving or any activity that requires you to focus and stay attentive.

4. Do not stop taking the medicines suddenly, as it will lead to many unpleasant effects like nausea, tremor, anxiety, agitation, or flu-like symptoms.

5. Consult your doctor if you are trying to conceive or breastfeeding as clonazepam tablets might not be ideal to take in these conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. 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 to assess the need for continuation of treatment, especially if you do not have any symptoms

2. Are there any food items we need to avoid while taking Clonazepam?

Yes, you should avoid taking foods containing caffeine such as tea, coffee, chocolates, etc., while taking Clonazepam. This is because caffeine stimulates your brain and Clonazepam calms the brain. So, taking too much caffeine can affect the calming ability of this medicine and worsen your condition.

3. Is Clonazepam addictive in nature?

People taking Clonazepam in high doses or for a long term may become addicted to it.