Clobazam

What is Clobazam for?

Clobazam is used to control some types of seizures (commonly known as fits). It can also be used for short-term treatment of anxiety or panic.

How should I take or use Clobazam?

• You may take this medication with or without food.
• Do not stop taking your medication without checking with your doctor.
• In some people, Clobazam can be used as and when necessary, please follow the instructions given by your doctor.

What should I do if I forget to take or use Clobazam?

If you are told by your doctor to take this medication regularly but you forgot a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at your usual timing. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.

What precautions should I take when taking or using Clobazam?

Inform your doctor or pharmacist if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
• You have myasthenia gravis (an autoimmune condition that affects the nerves and muscles)
• You have narrow-angle glaucoma (high pressure in the eyes)
• You have liver problems
• You have sleep apnea (temporary stopping of breathing during sleep)
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use Clobazam?

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication as it can make you more sleepy.

Avoid taking this medication with painkillers belonging to the opioid class (eg. tramadol, oxycodone) as it can make you more sleepy.

What are some common side effects of Clobazam?

• Drowsiness (feeling sleepy)
  • Avoid driving, operating machinery or doing strenuous physical activities
  • Avoid taking over-the-counter medications (such as cold or allergy medications) that could worsen drowsiness, check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure
• Drooling
• Mouth dryness
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Take this medication with or after food
  • Take simple meals and avoid rich or spicy food
  • Take small and frequent meals, rather than 3 large meals
  • Take food that is cold or at room temperature to avoid feeling sick from the smell
• Hard stools (constipation)
  • Take more foods that are high in fibre such as fruits and vegetables, and make sure you are drinking enough fluids
  • Move or exercise more which may also help to improve constipation
  • Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you need help with your constipation

Most of these side effects will improve with time. Talk to your doctor if the side effects continue or get worse.

What are some rare but serious side effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

Some people may be allergic to this medication. The symptoms of a drug allergy may include:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

Rarely, this medication may cause:

• Memory loss (amnesia)
• Abnormal thinking, or hearing or seeing things that do not exist (hallucinations)
• Unusual excitement, irritability, or agitation (disinhibition)
• Unusual sleep-related activities such as walking, eating or cooking
• Changes to behaviour (such as being more aggressive or irritable)
• Confusion
• Fast, slow or irregular heartbeat
• Blurred vision or seeing double
• Severe muscle weakness
• Dark brown urine, light coloured stools (pale grey/clay-coloured), yellowing of skin and eyes (which may be symptoms of liver problems)

If you experience any of these side effects, you should stop your medication and inform your doctor immediately.

How should I store Clobazam?

Store this medication in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children.

How do I throw away Clobazam safely?

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing it into the rubbish chute or bin.