What is this medication for?
Clonazepam belongs to the class of mediations called benzodiazepines. It is used to treat seizure and panic disorders. It helps by slowing the activity of the nerves in the brain (i.e., the central nervous system).
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak
to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Klonopin® is available as:
- tablets
- orally disintegrating tablets
- 0.125 mg
- 0.25 mg
- 0.5 mg
- 1 mg
- 2 mg
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The dose is usually started low and increased if necessary by your doctor. The recommended adult starting dose of clonazepam ranges from 0.5 mg to 1.5 mg daily in divided doses, with or without food. It is important that the dose be individualized to your specific needs to avoid excessive drowsiness or difficulty with motor activities. Your doctor may increase this dose to as high as 20 mg per day in 2 to 4 divided doses. Children's doses are based on body weight. Children need to be monitored carefully while taking this medication.
Clonazepam may be habit-forming when taken for long periods of time. If you have been taking this medication regularly for a long period of time (i.e., more than one month), do not stop taking the medication without speaking with your doctor. To avoid withdrawal
effects, a gradual reduction in dose is recommended when stopping this medication.
It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular
dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are
taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not use this medication if you:
- are allergic to clonazepam, other benzodiazepines, or any ingredients of the medication
- have liver disease
- have acute narrow- or closed-angle glaucoma
If you have open-angle glaucoma, you may use clonazepam if you are receiving appropriate treatment.