What is the most important information I should know about clonazepam?
Do not use this medication if you have severe
liver disease, of if you are allergic to
clonazepam or to other
benzodiazepines, such as
alprazolam (Xanax),
chlordiazepoxide
(Librium),
clorazepate (Tranxene),
diazepam (Valium),
lorazepam (Ativan), or
oxazepam
(Serax).
Clonazepam may cause harm to an unborn baby, and may cause breathing or
feeding
problems in a newborn. But having a seizure during
pregnancy could harm both the mother and
the baby.
Do not start taking clonazepam during pregnancy without telling your
doctor you are pregnant.
If you become pregnant while taking clonazepam for seizures, do not stop taking
clonazepam without your doctor's advice. Seizure control is very important during pregnancy
and the benefits of preventing seizures may outweigh any risks posed by taking clonazepam.
Before taking clonazepam, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, glaucoma,
any breathing problems, or a history of depression, suicidal thoughts, or addiction to drugs or
alcohol.
Do not drink alcohol while taking clonazepam. This medication can increase the
effects of alcohol.
Clonazepam may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person
it was prescribed for. Clonazepam should never be shared with another person,
especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a
secure place where others cannot get to it.
What is clonazepam?
Clonazepam is in a group of drugs called benzodiazepines (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peens).
Clonazepam affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety.
Clonazepam is used to treat seizure disorders or panic disorder.
Clonazepam may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking clonazepam?
Do not use this medication if you have severe liver disease, or if you are allergic to
clonazepam or to other benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide
(Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene), lorazepam (Ativan), or oxazepam (Serax).
Before taking clonazepam, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment
or special tests to safely take this medication.
FDA pregnancy category D. Clonazepam may cause harm to an unborn baby, and
may cause breathing or feeding problems in a newborn. But having a seizure during pregnancy
could harm both the mother and the baby. Do not start taking clonazepam during
pregnancy without telling your doctor you are pregnant.
If you become pregnant while taking clonazepam for seizures, do not stop taking
clonazepam without your doctor's advice. Seizure control is very important during pregnancy
and the benefits of preventing seizures may outweigh any risks posed by taking clonazepam.
Clonazepam may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. Do not
breast-feed a baby while taking this medication.
The sedative effects of clonazepam may last longer in older adults. Accidental falls
are common in elderly patients who take benzodiazepines. Use caution to avoid falling or
accidental injury while you are taking clonazepam.
Clonazepam may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person
it was prescribed for. Clonazepam should never be shared with another person,
especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a
secure place where others cannot get to it.
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