Introduction

Clonazepam belongs to benzodiazepine, a class of drugs that are mainly used for the treatment of anxiety, seizures, and panic attacks. Many people are using clonazepam for panic attacks and they are getting better. The brand name of this drug is Rivotril and the chemical formula of clonazepam is C15H10ClN3O3.The main function of clonazepam is to increase the function of neurotransmitters in the brain, it acts on the GABA-A receptors, and acts as an allosteric modulator. It is recommended by many doctors for panic attacks. It is also used for seizures disorder, especially in children and adults.

Dose & Administration

It is an oral drug, do not chew or crush the tablet. The oral tablet of clonazepam is available in three strengths 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg. Take one dose a day with a full glass of water, you can also take two doses once a day by the recommendation of the doctor in adults. Medical condition, weight, and age are the major factors on which the dose depends. Always start with a low dose and do not give overdose in older patients. Take clonazepam at the same time daily for better results. Take this medicine carefully, but if you miss the dose then do not take a double dose at a time as it is considered an overdose and leads to adverse effects.

Always read the instructions that are given by the doctor and if you are still confused about how to take this drug, then contact the pharmacist about it but make sure not to take it by your own choice.

Interaction

Drug interaction is the interaction of the drug with others like food, alcohol, and medicines. Under this heading, there is a detailed interaction of different medicines with clonazepam for panic attacks. It is important for the patient to tell all the details about the medicines they are already taking. The medicines that interact with clonazepam are, 

  1. Drugs used to treat insomnia
  2. Anti-histamines
  3. Used to treat cough
  4. Pills for anxiety attacks and seizures
  5. Drugs that are given to treat muscle contractions

There are many food items that interact with this drug and decrease its absorption in the human body. Do not drink alcohol, or avoid taking opioids as they cause drowsiness, dizziness, and other health issues.

Therapeutic Use

It is used to provide calm and relaxation to the patient and doctors mainly recommend this drug for the symptoms mentioned below:

  • For anxiety and panic attacks.
  • For the prevention of seizures
  • For muscle contraction

Do not elevate the level above 0.08 mcg/ml as it causes toxicity in the body of a patient and can cause life-threatening.

Precautions

Do not take clonazepam for panic attacks if you have the issues that are listed below: 

  • Lungs problems
  • Renal Insufficiency
  • Severe mood changes
  • Liver insufficiency
  • Severe mood swings
  • Suicidal thoughts

Do not take this drug if you are pregnant, as there are many chances of problematic delivery.

Lactating women avoid taking this medicine as there are chances of the entrance of this drug into the milk of the mother and it has many adverse effects, so they can cause life-threatening issues in infants. Do not give this medicine to anyone who is below 18 years old for depression or panic attacks. Always take this medicine with the recommendation of the doctor.

Side Effects

Every drug has side effects of which some are mild and some are severe. The mild symptoms are swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat. The major problems are increased saliva production, dizziness, tiredness, depression, memory problems, mood swings, and thoughts of suicide.  The minor side effects are, breathing problems, narrow-angle glaucoma, hallucinations, contracted muscles, bipolar disorders, pain, etc. Confusion is also really common in older patients.

To avoid such type of side effects follow the instructions of the pharmacist about dosage. If you experience such kind of side effects consult your doctor immediately. Do not stop taking it by your own choice as it has some withdrawal side effects.

Conclusion

As clonazepam for panic attacks has some adverse effects, so always consult your doctor before use, and do not use it on your own. This drug also has some withdrawal symptoms so do not stop taking it suddenly. Follow the proper instructions of your physician otherwise the effectiveness of this drug may decrease. Always keep this medicine out of reach of children and store it in a closed container at room temperature and away from moisture.