Clonazepam
Clonazepam is a benzodiazipine. Benzdiazipines are the most widely used anxiolytic drugs. The benzodiazipines are more effective and safer. They have largely replaced barbiturates and meprobamate in the treatement of anxiety.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Benzodiazepines.
It belongs to Chloride Channel Potentiater (GABA operated) pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Benzodiazepine pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 315.7 · pKa: 1.5, 10.5 · Solubility in Water: < 1 in 10000 · Solubility in Alcohol: > 1 in 1100 · Non-proprietary name: Clonazepam.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Clonazepam has an oral bioavailability is 85% (±5%).
Distribution: Clonazepam has a volume of distribution is 2-4 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 47-82%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via extensive by liver, plasma half-life is 20-40 hr, renal excretion is 70%.
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Indications
Clonazepam is primarily indicated in conditions like All forms of epilepsy, Atypical absence, Bipolar affective disorder, Bipolar disorders, Choreiform movements, Drug induced dyskinesias, Epilepsy, Fulgurant pain, Infantile spasms, Lennox-gastaut syndrome, Myoclonic seizures, Myoclonus, Panic attack, Status epilepticus.
Contraindications
Clonazepam is contraindicated in conditions like Respiratory depression, Acute pulmonary insufficiency, Hypersensitivity.
Dosage
Clonazepam's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 0.56 mg | 0.56 mg | Every 24h | PO | Initial |
| 1.5 mg | 1.5 mg | Every 24h | PO | Maintenance |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 25 ug/kg | 25 ug/kg | Every 24h | Oral | Initially at night |
| 100 ug/kg | 100 ug/kg | Every 12h | Oral | Maintenance |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 31.25 ug/kg | 31.25 ug/kg | Every 24h | oral | load for once |
| 62.5 ug/kg | 62.5 ug/kg | Every 12h | oral | Maintenance, As required |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Clonazepam in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Thrombocytopenia , Abnormal LFT, Blood dyscrasias .
Clonazepam produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Apnea, Hypotension. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Clonazepam are Somnolence, Ataxia, Drowsiness, Hypotonia.
Clonazepam is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abnormal thirst, Anorexia , Coordination disturbances, Dizziness, Drowsiness, Facial edema, Fatigue, Impotence, Increased intracranial pressure, Loss of libido, Macular hypotonia, Rashes , Skin pigmentation, Sleep disturbancesX, SomnolenceX, Tachycardia, VertigoX, Vision disturbances.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Clonazepam may interfere in the diagnosis of Liver Function Test (LFT) , Periodic blood count.
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.5 — Anticonvulsants and Antiepileptics