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Clonazepam
Generic Name: Clonazepam Tablets (kloe-NA-ze-pam)
Brand Name: Klonopin
Controlling certain types of seizures in the treatment of epilepsy and for the treatment of panic disorders. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine. It works by increasing the activity of a naturally occurring chemical in the brain.
Clonazepam®
How to use Clonazepam :
Use Clonazepam as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.
Take Clonazepam by mouth with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation. Swallow tablet whole with a full glass of water (8 oz/240 mL).
If you are taking Clonazepam for the prevention of seizures, taking Clonazepam at the same times each day will help you remember to take it.
Continue to take Clonazepam even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses. Clonazepam works best when there is a constant level of Clonazepam in your body.
If you miss a dose of Clonazepam 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.
Important safety information:
Do not drink alcohol or use medicines that may cause drowsiness (eg, sleep aids, muscle relaxers) while you are using Clonazepam ; it may add to their effects.
Carry an ID card at all times that says you take Clonazepam if it is used for seizures.
Lab Tests, including liver function, blood counts and electrocardiograms, may be performed while you use Clonazepam . These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
Clonazepam should not be used in CHILDREN younger than 18 years old with panic disorder; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.
Pregnancy and Breast Feeding: Clonazepam may cause harm to the fetus. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Clonazepam while you are pregnant. Clonazepam is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Clonazepam .
When used for long periods of time or at high doses, Clonazepam may not work as well and may require higher doses to obtain the same effect as when originally taken. This is known as TOLERANCE. Talk with your doctor if Clonazepam stops working well. Do not take more than prescribed.
When used for longer than a few weeks or at high doses, some people develop a need to continue taking Clonazepam . This is known as DEPENDENCE or addiction. If you stop taking Clonazepam suddenly, you may have WITHDRAWAL symptoms.
Possible side effects of Clonazepam :
Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:
Bed wetting; clumsiness or unsteadiness; coated tongue; confusion; constipation; depression; dizziness; drowsiness; excessive daytime drowsiness; feeling of a whirling motion; frequent urination at night; headache; increased saliva (spit); lightheadedness; loss of appetite; runny nose; unusual weakness.
Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:
Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); aggressive behavior; attempted suicide; bizarre behavior; chest congestion; excessive upper respiratory tract secretions; hallucinations; hostility; hysteria; interrupted breathing; memory loss; pounding in the chest; shortness of breath; tremor.
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