About

Generic name: Clonazepam
Brand names: Klonopin

Klonopin is used alone or along with other medications to treat convulsive disorders such as epilepsy. It is also prescribed for panic disorder--unexpected attacks of overwhelming panic accompanied by fear of recurrence. Klonopin belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines.

How to take

Take Klonopin tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. If Klonopin upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking or change the dose except on your prescriber`s advice. Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose of Klonopin and you are taking it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your health care provider. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Warnings and precautions

Klonopin may cause you to become drowsy or less alert; therefore, you should not drive or operate dangerous machinery or participate in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness until you know how Klonopin affects you. If you have several types of seizures, Klonopin may increase the possibility of grand mal seizures (epilepsy). Inform your doctor if this occurs. Your doctor may wish to prescribe an additional anticonvulsant drug or increase your dose. Klonopin can be habit-forming and can lose its effectiveness as you build up a tolerance to it. You may experience withdrawal symptoms--such as convulsions, hallucinations, tremor, and abdominal and muscle cramps--if you stop using Klonopin abruptly. Discontinue or change your dose only in consultation with your doctor. Klonopin slows the nervous system and its effects may be intensified by alcohol. Do not drink while taking Klonopin.

Side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Klonopin.
* Side effects in seizure disorders may include: Behavior problems, drowsiness, lack of muscular coordination
* Side effects in panic disorder may include: Allergic reaction, constipation, coordination problems, depression, dizziness, fatigue, inflamed sinuses or nasal passages, flu, memory problems, menstrual problems, nervousness, reduced thinking ability, respiratory infection, sleepiness, speech problems, vaginal inflammation Klonopin can also cause aggressive behavior, agitation, anxiety, excitability, hostility, irritability, nervousness, nightmares, sleep disturbances, and vivid dreams.
* Side effects due to a rapid decrease in dose or abrupt withdrawal from Klonopin may include: Abdominal and muscle cramps, behavior disorders, convulsions, depressed feeling, hallucinations, restlessness, sleeping difficulties, tremors.

Storage

Store Klonopin at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Klonopin out of the reach of children and away from pets.