Clonazepam

NHS information about the medicine clonazepam, including what it's used for, who can take it, how to take it and side effects.

What clonazepam is for

Clonazepam is a type of medicine called a benzodiazepine. It's used to used to treat seizures caused by epilepsy.

It's also sometimes used for panic disorder when other medicines have not worked.

It works by calming activity in your brain and nerves. For epilepsy, this helps to reduce the number of seizures you have and can make seizures less serious.

How to take clonazepam

How much clonazepam you need to take depends on your age and why you're taking it.

For epilepsy, you usually take it once a day, in the evening. But some people may need to take it in divided doses.

Your doctor will usually prescribe a low dose when you first start taking clonazepam and increase it if needed.

When taking clonazepam:

• swallow tablets whole with water
• use the syringe or spoon that comes with the liquid medicine to help you measure the right dose
• you can take it with or without food

Always check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine. Ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice if you're not sure how to take it or have any problems taking it.

Side effects of clonazepam

Like all medicines, clonazepam can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Possible side effects of clonazepam include:

• feeling sleepy, tired, dizzy or less alert
• headaches
• feeling restless or agitated
• feeling low or depressed
• shaking
• muscle weakness

If you feel sleepy, dizzy or less alert after taking clonazepam, do not drive, ride a bike or use machinery until you no longer have these symptoms.

More about side effects

These are not all the side effects of clonazepam.

For a full list, see the leaflet that comes with your medicine or search for your medicine leaflet on the electronic medicines compendium website.

You can report any side effects you get on the Yellow Card website

Who can and cannot take clonazepam

Most adults and children can take clonazepam.

But it's not suitable for everyone. For example, it may not be suitable if:

• you've had an allergic reaction or other serious side effect from clonazepam or another benzodiazepine
• you have sleep apnoea or breathing problems
• you have muscle weakness or a condition that causes it, such as myasthenia gravis
• you have kidney or liver problems
• you've been addicted to alcohol, drugs or prescription medicine before, especially opioids
• you have ever had depression or thoughts of harming yourself
• you have porphyria, a rare blood condition

Before taking clonazepam, tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions.

Breastfeeding and clonazepam

Tell your doctor if you're breastfeeding.

Clonazepam is sometimes used while breastfeeding, but only if the benefits outweigh the risks.

It's possible for breastfed babies to get side effects if you're taking clonazepam, such as being sleepier or breathing more slowly than usual. Speak to a healthcare professional or call NHS 111 if you have any concerns about your baby.

Do not sleep in the same bed (co-sleep) with your baby if you've taken clonazepam or any other medicine that makes you sleepy or drowsy, as it can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Pregnancy and clonazepam

Tell your doctor if you're pregnant, or get pregnant while taking clonazepam.

Clonazepam may be used during pregnancy. Your doctor will talk to you about the risks and benefits of taking it while you're pregnant.

You may also be advised to give birth in hospital so you and your baby can be closely monitored after you've given birth.

Taking clonazepam with other medicines, food and drink

There are some medicines, remedies and supplements that may not mix well with clonazepam.

This includes:

• other medicines for epilepsy, such as carbamazepine, lamotrigine and sodium valproate
• medicines for moderate or severe pain, including opioid painkillers like morphine, codeine or oxycodone
• medicines for sleep or anxiety problems
• some medicines for mental health problems, such as antidepressants or antipsychotics
• cimetidine, used to lower the amount of acid in your stomach
• rifampicin, an antibiotic

Before taking clonazepam, tell your doctor if you're taking any other medicines, herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements.

Food, drink and alcohol with clonazepam

Do not drink alcohol while taking clonazepam. Alcohol can increase the effects of the medicine, which can cause breathing problems and make it very difficult to wake up.

Otherwise, you can eat and drink as normal while taking clonazepam.

Find out more about your medicine

To find out more about your medicine, you can:

• check the leaflet that comes with it
• search for your medicine leaflet on the electronic medicines compendium website
• find out about the law on drugs and driving (GOV.UK)
• speak to a pharmacist or a doctor for advice