Clobazam
ANTIANXIETY/ANTIEPILEPTICUses of Clobazam
- Clobazam is a benzodiazepine and is primarily used as an adjunctive therapy for the management of seizures (fits) associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
- It is also used as an ANTIANXIETY medicine in patients with diagnosed severe disabling anxiety for short term relief.
Side effects of Clobazam
- Fatigue (especially at the start of treatment)
- Somnolence or sedation (more at the beginning of the treatment)
- Headache
- Nausea
- Difficulty speaking or swallowing
- Problems with coordination/Tremors/Ataxia
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Drooling
How Clobazam works
- Clobazam is benzodiazepine
- It acts as a partial agonist at GABAA receptor which increases the effectiveness of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) thereby producing an anti-anxiety and anti-seizure effect by decreasing abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
Certified content
Written By
B. Pharm
Reviewed By
B. Pharm, MSc.
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
- Clobazam is available for use via oral (tablet, suspension and a film to apply on the tongue) route.
Age and Dose Restrictions
- It can be used in adults and children above two years of age.
Overdose and Missed Dose
- Overdose of Clobazam is capable of causing symptoms like blurred vision, fainting, lack of energy, confusion, drowsiness, problems with coordination, and slow, shallow breathing.Immediate medical intervention is crucial in the case of an overdose.
- If you forget to take a dose of Clobazam, take it as soon as you remember. However, if the time for the next dose is near, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Use In Driving And Operating Machinery
- It is advisable to refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery while using Clobazam, as it has been associated with causing drowsiness.
Contraindications
- Clobazam is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to clobazam, history of drug or alcohol dependence, pregnancy, breastfeeding severe respiratory insufficiency. Sleep apnea syndrome, Severe liver dysfunction.
Caution In Other Conditions
- Caution is advised for simultaneous use of clobazam with opioids as it can precipitate severe respiratory depression.
- Clobazam is a habit-forming drug.
- Clobazam can lead to physical dependence, where discontinuing the medication or reducing the dosage abruptly may result in unpleasant physical symptoms. Not ceasing or decreasing your clobazam dosage without consulting your doctor is essential.
Special Dietary & Lifestyle Recommendation
- Prioritise a regular sleep schedule, as adequate rest is crucial in seizure control. Engage in stress-reducing activities such as yoga or meditation to manage emotional well-being. Alcohol and drug avoidance is advisable, as these substances may affect the seizure threshold.
- Regular exercise is a powerful tool for reducing anxiety by releasing mood-enhancing endorphins. Balanced nutrition, focusing on whole foods, can stabilise mood and energy levels.
Frequently asked questions
How much time does Clobazam take to work?
Clobazam typically starts working within about 30 to 60 minutes after taking it.
Which medications should be avoided while taking Clobazam?
Avoid other medications for anxiety and mental illness, sedatives and opioids when taking Clobazam.
What warning and precautions should I take while taking Clobazam?
It's important to follow your doctor's advice, as Clobazam can be habit-forming. Clobazam should not be taken incases of hypersensitivity to clobazam, history of drug or alcohol dependence, PREGNANCY, BREASTFEEDING, severe respiratory insufficiency. Sleep apnea syndrome, Severe liver dysfunction.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Clobazam?
Avoid consuming alcohol while using Clobazam, as it can intensify the medication's side effects and associated CNS depressant effect.
Does taking Clobazam affect fertility?
Clobazam is known to cause developmental malformations in the foetus and is therefore contraindicated in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Is it safe for patients with kidney or liver disease to take Clobazam?
Dose adjustments are needed for Clobazam use in patients with kidney and liver disease. It is contraindicated in patients with severe liver dysfunction.
Does taking Clobazam affect contraception?
If you're using hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills, patches, rings, implants, injections, or intrauterine devices, be aware that they may be less effective when used with clobazam. It's not recommended to rely solely on hormonal contraceptives while taking clobazam. Consult your doctor to explore non-hormonal birth control options suitable for you.
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