USES
Clonazepam is used to treat seizure disorders and panic attacks. Clonazepam belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines which act on the brain and nerves (central nervous system) to produce a calming effect. Clonazepam works by enhancing the effects of a certain natural chemical in the body (GABA).
HOW TO USE
Take Clonazepam 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. Use Clonazepam regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use Clonazepam 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 Clonazepam can 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.
PRECAUTIONS
Before taking Clonazepam, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam, lorazepam); or if you have any other allergies. Clonazepam should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: narrow angle glaucoma, severe liver disease. Before using Clonazepam, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: alcohol use, drug dependency, kidney disease, liver disease, lung/breathing disorders, mental/mood disorders, open angle glaucoma. Clonazepam may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Caution is advised when using Clonazepam in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially drowsiness and confusion. Caution is advised when using this drug in children because the long-term effects on physical and mental/behavioral development are uncertain. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy due to the potential for fetal harm. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Consult your doctor for more details. This drug passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Therefore, breast-feeding while using this medication is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
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