Brand
name : Rivotril
- Rivotril Clonazepam
Pronounced: KLON-uh-pin
Generic name: Clonazepam
Why is Rivotril Clonazepam prescribed?
Rivotril Clonazepam 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. Rivotril Clonazepam
belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines.
Most important fact about Rivotril Clonazepam - non
rx - prescriptions...
Rivotril Clonazepam works best when there is a constant amount in the bloodstream.
To keep blood levels as constant as possible, take your doses at regularly
spaced intervals and try not to miss any.
How should you take Rivotril Clonazepam?
Take Rivotril Clonazepam exactly as prescribed. If you are taking it for panic
disorder and you find it makes you sleepy, your doctor may recommend
a single dose at bedtime.
--If you miss a dose...
If it is within an hour after the missed time, take the dose as soon
as you remember. If you do not remember until later, skip the dose
and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same
time.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture.
Rivotril Clonazepam side effects
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 Rivotril Clonazepam.
* Side effects in seizure disorders may include:
Behavior problems, drowsiness, lack of muscular coordination
* Side effects in panic disorder may include:
Allergic reaction, constipation, coordination problems, depression, dizziness,
fatigue, inflamed sinuses or nasal passages, flu, memory problems, menstrual
problems, nervousness, reduced thinking ability, respiratory infection, sleepiness,
speech problems, vaginal inflammation
Rivotril Clonazepam can also cause aggressive behavior, agitation, anxiety, excitability,
hostility, irritability, nervousness, nightmares, sleep disturbances,
and vivid dreams.
* Side effects due to a rapid decrease in dose or abrupt withdrawal
from Rivotril Clonazepam may include:
Abdominal and muscle cramps, behavior disorders, convulsions, depressed feeling,
hallucinations, restlessness, sleeping difficulties, tremors,
Why should Rivotril Clonazepam not be prescribed?
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Rivotril Clonazepam
or similar drugs, such as Librium and Valium, you should not take Rivotril Clonazepam.
Make sure your doctor is aware of any reactions you have experienced.
You should not take Rivotril Clonazepam if you have severe liver disease or the
eye condition known as acute narrow-angle glaucoma.
Special warnings about Rivotril Clonazepam
Rivotril Clonazepam 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 Rivotril Clonazepam affects you.
If you have several types of seizures, Rivotril Clonazepam 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.
Rivotril Clonazepam can be habit-forming and can lose its effectiveness as you
build up a tolerance to it. You may experience withdrawal symptoms--such
as convulsions, hallucinations, tremor, and abdominal and muscle cramps--if
you stop using Rivotril Clonazepam abruptly. Discontinue or change your dose only
in consultation with your doctor.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Rivotril Clonazepam
Rivotril Clonazepam slows the nervous system and its effects may be intensified
by alcohol. Do not drink while taking Rivotril Clonazepam.
If Rivotril Clonazepam 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 Rivotril Clonazepam 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
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Avoid Rivotril Clonazepam if at all possible during the first 3 months of pregnancy;
there is a risk of birth defects. When taken later in pregnancy, the
drug can cause other problems, such as withdrawal symptoms in the newborn.
If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor
immediately. Rivotril Clonazepam appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing
infant. Mothers taking this medication should not breastfeed.
Recommended dosage for Rivotril Clonazepam
SEIZURE DISORDERS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you
suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
