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Clonazepam

Systems	Central nervous system
Category	Anti-convulsant

Pharmacokinetics

It is absorbed from the proximal small intestine. It is extensively distributed in the body.It is 85 % bound to plasma proteins.Plasma half life averages 24 hours.It is metabolised in the liver. Clearance is reduced in liver damage.It is excreted in urine.

Indications

Clonazepam belongs to benzodiazepine group of drugs. It is used for clonic seizures, atonic seizures, temporal epilepsy, status epilepticus, infantile spasms and absence seizures.

Routes of Administration and Dosage

Oral dosage form (tablets): For control of seizures in adults : Start with 0.5 milligrams (mg) three times a day and gradually increase the dose not more than 20 mg a day. In Infants and children up to 10 years of age, the dose is based on body weight.In chidren start with 0.01 to 0.02 mgs/kg /day in divided doses and gradually increase to a maximum of 0.2 mg /kg / day.In infants the dose is 0.5 to 1mg/day.

Contra Indications

Contraindications are hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines,respiratory depression, acute pulmonary insufficiency,lactation and pregnancy.

Precautions

Allergies may occur with Clonazepam .Special precautions to be taken in elderly, chronic pulmonary insufficiency, neonates,porphyria and in patients with hepatic and renal damage.

Interactions

Adverse effects of drugs like hydantoins and phenobarbitones may be exacerbrated by clonazepam. Clonazepam potentiates the effects of alcohol.

Brand Names

Clonotril (Torrent), Lonazep (Synergy), Rivotril (Piramal Healthcare)