Rivotril: Drug Information

Generic name: Clonazepam

Brand Name: Clonex, Klonopin

Other names: Clonotril, Convaclon, Epacon, Epitril, Epizam, Lona, Lonazep, Lonin, Melzap, Ozepam, Petril, Petril-3, Rivotril, Sezolep, Zee

Rivotril belongs to the class of anticonvulsant drugs and is used in the treatment of Lennox- Gastaut syndrome, atonic seizures, infantile spasms, myoclonic seizures, temporal lobe epilepsy, tonic-clonic seizures and panic disorder with or with or agoraphobia. Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine and is known to demonstrate effective anticonvulsant properties by raising the threshold for dissemination of seizure activity.

Dosage:

Rivotril is available in tablet form and must not be crushed or broken but must be consumed as whole.You must take the medicine as directed by your doctor. It can be taken with or without meals at regular intervals in the prescribed dose. Benzodiazepines are known to be habit forming drugs; therefore, you must consult your doctor before increasing the dosage. Also, DO NOT stop taking Rivotril without prior consent of your doctor as it might worsen your condition.

Warning and Precautions:

Rivotril should not be administered to patients who show hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines.

It is advised not to give this medicine to patients with acute pulmonary insufficiency and respiratory depression.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before taking Rivotril.

Intake of this medicine is not advised during lactation.

Caution is advised when administering the medicine to neonates and the elderly.

Notify your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, hypothyroidism, enlarged prostrate or porphyria before taking Rivotril.

DO NOT consume alcohol when on Rivotril.

Benzodiazepines impair judgment and motor skills. Therefore, it is advised that you should not operate any machinery or drive when on this medicine.

Drug Interactions:

Rivotril should not be co-administered with hydantoins and phenobarbitone as it has the tendency to aggravate the side effects of these medicines.

Side Effects of Rivotril:

The most common side effects of the medicine include drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness, vertigo, somnolence, sleep disturbances, dyspepsia, disturbances in co-ordination, muscular hyptonia, rashes, facial edema, loss of sex drive, abnormal thirst, dehydration and hypotension.