Medications and Drugs

GENERIC NAME: CLONAZEPAM - DISINTEGRATING TABLET ORAL (klo-NAY-zeh-pam)

BRAND NAME(S): Klonopin Wafers

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: Clonazepam is used to treat seizure disorders and panic attacks. It belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines which act on the brain and nerves (central nervous system) to produce a calming effect. This drug works by enhancing the effects of a certain natural chemical in the body (GABA).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth 2 or 3 times a day, or as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Do not remove the tablet from its packaging until you are ready to take a dose. Open the pouch and peel back the foil layer on the individual blister to expose the tablet. Do not push the tablet through the foil because it may become damaged. With dry hands, remove the tablet and immediately place it on your tongue where it will dissolve in a few seconds. It can then be swallowed with or without water or other liquid. Do not split or chew the tablet. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same times each day. Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug may be habit-forming. Do not suddenly stop using this drug without your doctor's approval. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. When used for an extended period, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.

SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, muscle pain, excessive hair growth or loss, change in sexual desire, weight change, increased saliva production, sore gums, or cough may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: loss of coordination, mental/mood/behavior changes. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: slowed breathing, easy bruising/bleeding, unusual eye movements, unusual fatigue, fast/pounding heartbeat, unusual muscle movement, one-sided weakness, slurred speech, trouble urinating. If you have several different types of seizure disorders, you may experience a worsening of seizure activity at the start of using this medication. Consult your doctor immediately if this happens. The addition or dosage adjustment of other anti-seizure medications may be necessary to keep seizures under control. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.