Clobazam
Uses of Clobazam
Clobazam is commonly used to treat adjunct in epilepsy, Sedative, Severe Anxiety, Short Term Anxiety
How Clobazam Works
Clobazam is a benzodiazepine that has both anticonvulsant and anxiolytic properties. It enhances the inhibitory effects by binding to a receptor known as γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor within the central nervous system that will help to calm patients with anxiety and seizures.
Side Effects of Clobazam
Withdrawal symptoms (e.g. seizures, seizure exacerbation, status epilepticus, psychosis, hallucination, tremor, anxiety) Sedation, Anterograde amnesia, Suicidal ideation, Muscle weakness, Aggression, Drowsiness, Vomiting, Drooling, Constipation
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Dose adjustment of Clobazam may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
Alcohol Not Advisable
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Clobazam due to its side effects such as dizziness, sedation and suicidal ideation.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Clobazam may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. It is not advisable to take the medication especially later stage of pregnancy as it can lead to physical dependence of neonate towards the medication and withdrawal syndrome. It can also lead to hypothermia, hypotonia and moderate respiratory depression.
Driving Not advisable
Clobazam may cause side effects such as dizziness, somnolence, seizure which could affect your general attention and ability to concentrate whilst driving.
Liver Use With Care
In patients with liver disease, there are higher risk of adverse effects and responsiveness to Clobazam. Therefore, dose reduction may be necessary. Please consult your doctor.
Lactation Not Advisable
Clobazam is found in human milk. Therefore, it is not advisable for breastfeeding women to take the medication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
