Clobazam is a drug used to treat seizures in epilepsy. One type of severe epilepsy that can be treated by clobazam is Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. In addition to treating seizures, clobazam can also be used to treat anxiety disorders.
Clobazam works by balancing the electrical current in the brain and relaxing the muscles that tense up during a seizure, so that the seizure can be resolved. This drug should not be used carelessly and must be in accordance with a doctor's prescription.
Clobazam trademark: Anxibloc, Asabium, Clobazam, Clofritis, Frisium, Proclozam
What is Clobazam
| group | Prescription drugs |
| Category | Benzodiazepine anticonvulsants |
| Benefit | Overcoming seizures in epilepsy |
| Used by | Adults and children |
| Clobazam for pregnant and lactating women | Category C: Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. Clobazam can be absorbed into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor first. |
| Shape | Tablets and syrup |
Warning Before Taking Clobazam
Clobazam should not be used carelessly. There are several things to consider before taking this drug, including:
- Tell your doctor about any allergies you have. Clobazam should not be used in patients who are allergic to this drug.
- Do not consume alcoholic beverages while on treatment with clobazam.
- Tell your doctor if you have or are currently suffering from liver disease, kidney disease, depression, lung disease, or alcoholism.
- Tell your doctor if you have recently hurt yourself or have suicidal thoughts.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements, or herbal products. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking antidepressants or opioid medications.
- Do not drive or operate equipment that requires alertness while you are taking clobazam, as this medicine may cause dizziness and drowsiness.
- Carry out regular check-ups as recommended by your doctor during treatment with clobazam and do not stop taking clobazam without consulting your doctor first.
- If you have an allergic drug reaction, a more serious side effect, or an overdose after taking clobazam, see your doctor immediately.
Dosage and Instructions for Use of Clobazam
The dose of clobazam can be different for each patient. The following are general doses of clobazam based on the patient's condition and age:
Condition: Epilepsy
- Mature: the initial dose is 20-30 mg per day, the dose can be increased to a maximum of 60 mg per day.
- Children aged 6 years and over: The initial dose is 5 mg per day, the dose may be increased to a maximum of 60 mg per day. The maintenance dose is 0.3–1 mg/kgBW per day.
Condition: Anxiety disorders
- Mature: 20-30 mg per day, can be divided into several consumption schedules. The dose can be increased to 60 mg per day.
- seniors: 10–20 mg per day.
How to Take Clobazam Correctly
Follow the doctor's advice and read the instructions on the package before taking clobazam. Do not increase or decrease the dose, and stop using clobazam without consulting your doctor first.
Clobazam can be taken with food. If you are taking clobazam in tablet form, swallow the tablet whole and do not chew or crush the tablet. If clobazam syrup is prescribed, shake it before drinking. Use the measuring spoon provided in the syrup package for clobazam for a more precise dose.
If you forget to take clobazam, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose of clobazam to make up for a missed dose, unless directed by your doctor.
Store clobazam at room temperature. Keep out of direct sunlight and keep this medicine out of reach of children.
Clobazam Interactions with Other Drugs
The following are some of the effects of drug interactions that may occur if clobazam is taken together with other drugs, including:
- Increased blood levels of clobazam if taken with fluconazole, ticlopidine, stiripentol, or omeprazole
- Decreased levels of hormonal contraceptives in the body, so that it can reduce its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy
- Increased risk of respiratory distress, coma, drowsiness, and even death, if used with opioids
- Increased risk of central nervous system disorders when used with antipsychotic drugs, antidepressants, tranquilizers, anesthetics, antihistamines, or anticonvulsant drugs
Clobazam Side Effects and Dangers
Clobazam whose use is discontinued carelessly can cause withdrawal symptoms. In addition, there are some side effects that can arise after taking clobazam, namely:
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Constipation
- Clumsiness or balance disorders
- Disturbed appetite
- Fatigue
- Throw up
- Cough
- Joint pain
- dry mouth
Check with your doctor if the side effects don't go away or get worse. Immediately see a doctor if you experience an allergic reaction to the drug which can be characterized by the appearance of swelling of the lips or eyelids, difficulty breathing, an itchy rash on the skin, or experiencing more serious side effects, such as:
- Difficult to swallow
- Shaking or tremor
- Fever
- Impaired speech or speech becomes unclear
- Fatigue is getting heavier
- Anxious, confused, unable to control emotions