Clonazepam

Dosage Forms Available

• Clonazepam is available for use via oral route in the form of tablets.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for adults.

Contraindications

• Clonazepam is contraindicated in patients with known allergies to clonazepam and in patients with liver disease, lung disease, sleep apnoea syndrome, and alcohol dependence.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Clonazepam can potentially interact with various medications, including opioid analgesics (such as codeine, and hydrocodone), antipsychotics (like olanzapine), anaesthetics (like ketamine), antidepressants (such as sodium oxybate), blood pressure-lowering medications (like enalapril), antacids (like cimetidine), antibiotics (like rifampicin), and anticonvulsants (such as diazepam).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of this medicine may cause symptoms like feeling drowsy, sleepy, light-headed, having a lack of coordination or being less responsive than normal. Contact your doctor if you take more than you should. 
• If you forget to take this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. But avoid repeating the dose.

Management of Side Effects

• Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• This medication may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid heavy work while you are on it.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• This medicine is not recommended in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients who have heart, kidney or liver problems, and alcohol dependence should exercise caution when taking this medicine.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Incorporate regular exercise into your routine to release endorphins, improve sleep, and boost self-esteem.
• Find moments of humour in your day by watching light-hearted shows to alleviate stress.
• Practice mindfulness through activities like yoga, meditation, or mindfulness-based therapies to increase awareness and reduce anxiety.
• Stay hydrated by drinking enough water and limiting alcohol and caffeine intake to reduce anxiety.
• Consume a diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, and fruits to support overall health.
• Incorporate anti-inflammatory herbs like turmeric, ginger, and chamomile into your meals to reduce inflammation associated with anxiety.
• Limit intake of alcohol, caffeine, added sugar, salt, and trans fats to further reduce inflammation.
• To support mental health, include antioxidants like ashwagandha, omega-3 fatty acids, green tea, and lemon in your diet.
• Spend quality time with friends and family to build a strong support system and lower anxiety risk.