Klonopin Medication - Uses & Side Effects

Klonopin is used alone or along with other medications to treat convulsive disorders such as epilepsy. It is also prescribed for panic disorder--unexpected attacks of overwhelming panic accompanied by fear of recurrence. Klonopin belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines.

Klonopin Dosage

• The starting dose should be no more than 1.5 milligrams per day, divided into 3 doses. Your doctor may increase your daily dosage by 0.5 to 1 milligram every 3 days until your seizures are controlled or the side effects become too bothersome. The most you should take in 1 day is 20 milligrams.

Uses of Klonopin

• Klonopin (clonazepam) is used to treat seizures and panic disorder.
• Klonopin (clonazepam) may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Side Effects of Klonopin

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Klonopin. Side effects in seizure disorders may include:

• Behavior problems
• drowsiness
• lack of muscular coordination
• Allergic reaction
• constipation
• coordination problems
• depression
• dizziness
• memory problems
• menstrual problems
• nervousness
• reduced thinking ability
• respiratory infection
• sleepiness
• speech problems
• vaginal inflammation
  

Warnings and precautions before taking Klonopin:

• Klonopin may cause you to become drowsy or less alert; therefore, you should not drive or operate dangerous machinery or participate in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness until you know how Klonopin affects you.
• If you have several types of seizures, Klonopin may increase the possibility of grand mal seizures (epilepsy). Inform your doctor if this occurs. Your doctor may wish to prescribe an additional anticonvulsant drug or increase your dose.

Drug Interaction :- If Klonopin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Klonopin with the following:

• Antianxiety drugs such as Valium
  
• Antidepressant drugs such as Elavil, Nardil, Parnate, and Tofranil
  
• Barbiturates such as phenobarbital
  
• Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
  
• Major tranquilizers such as Haldol, Navane, and Thorazine
  
• Narcotic pain relievers such as Demerol and Percocet
  
• Oral antifungal drugs such as Fungizone, Mycelex, and Mycostatin
  
• Other anticonvulsants such as Dilantin, Depakene, and Depakote
  
• Sedatives such as Halcion

Overdose

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. The symptoms of Klonopin overdose may include:

• Coma
• confusion
• sleepiness
• slowed reaction time
• dizziness
• slow heart beat
• difficulty breathing
• difficulty walking and talking
• an appearance of being drunk and unconsciousness.