Clonazepam
Generic Details
Generic Name
Clonazepam
Other Names
- Klonopin
Drug Class
- Benzodiazepine
Chemical Formula
C15H10ClN3O3
Molecular Weight
315.71 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Enhances the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain
Indications
- Anxiety disorders
- Panic disorder
- Seizure disorders
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Oral disintegrating tablet
Typical Dosage
- 0.5-2mg per day, divided into multiple doses
Pediatric Dosage
- Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosage
Geriatric Dosage
- Lower doses to avoid excessive sedation and motor impairment
Side Effects
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Tolerance
- Dependence
- Withdrawal symptoms
Contraindications
- Severe respiratory insufficiency
- Acute narrow-angle glaucoma
Pregnancy Category
- D - Positive evidence of risk
Lactation Safety
- Limited data available, caution advised
Drug Interactions
- Alcohol
- Opioids
- Other CNS depressants
Overdose Symptoms
- Extreme drowsiness
- Confusion
- Muscle weakness
- Coma
Antidote for Overdose
- Flumazenil (rarely used due to potential seizures)
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
- Distribution: Crosses the blood-brain barrier and placenta, found in breast milk
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites
- Excretion: Excreted mainly in urine
Precautions
- Caution in patients with a history of substance abuse
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation
Warnings
- Potential for abuse and dependence
- Increase in suicidal thoughts in some patients
Others
- May cause memory issues and cognitive impairments