Clonazepam (Klonopin, Rivotril)
A benzodiazepine used for the treatment of all forms of epilepsy. It is available, on prescription only, as tablets for oral use and as a form for injection or infusion for treating status epilepticus.
Intravenous infusion of donazepam may be hazardous and should only be performed in specialist centres where intensive care facilities are available.
Side effects: include drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness, lack of coordination, and behavioural changes, such as paradoxical aggression and irritability. There is increased salivation in babies.
Precautions: clonazepam should not be taken by patients with severe lung problems and should be used with caution in people who have liver or kidney disease and in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding; women who are planning to become pregnant should seek specialist advice. Dosage of the drug should be reduced gradually at the end of treatment
Proprietary preparation: Rivotril.