What is Klonopin?

Klonopin is in a group of drugs called benzodiazepines (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peens). Clonazepam affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety.

Klonopin is used to treat seizure disorders or panic disorder.
Klonopin may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information about Klonopin

Do not use Klonopin if you have severe liver disease, of if you are allergic to clonazepam or to other benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene), diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), or oxazepam (Serax). Clonazepam may cause harm to an unborn baby, and may cause breathing or feeding problems in a newborn. But having a seizure during pregnancy could harm both the mother and the baby. Do not start taking Klonopin during pregnancy without telling your doctor you are pregnant.

If you become pregnant while taking Klonopin for seizures, do not stop taking this medicine without your doctor’s advice. Seizure control is very important during pregnancy and the benefits of preventing seizures may outweigh any risks posed by taking Klonopin.
Before taking Klonopin, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, glaucoma, any breathing problems, or a history of depression, suicidal thoughts, or addiction to drugs or alcohol.

Do not drink alcohol while taking clonazepam. Klonopin can increase the effects of alcohol. Klonopin may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Klonopin should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Klonopin?
Do not use Klonopin if you have severe liver disease, or if you are allergic to clonazepam or to other benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene), lorazepam (Ativan), or oxazepam (Serax).

Before taking Klonopin, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
•    kidney or liver disease;
•    glaucoma;
•    asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), or other breathing problems;
•    a history of depression or suicidal thoughts or behavior; or
•    a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take this medication.
FDA pregnancy category D. Klonopin may cause harm to an unborn baby, and may cause breathing or feeding problems in a newborn. But having a seizure during pregnancy could harm both the mother and the baby. Do not start taking Klonopin during pregnancy without telling your doctor you are pregnant.

If you become pregnant while taking Klonopin for seizures, do not stop taking Klonopin without your doctor’s advice. Seizure control is very important during pregnancy and the benefits of preventing seizures may outweigh any risks posed by taking Klonopin.

Klonopin may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. Do not breast-feed a baby while taking Klonopin. The sedative effects of clonazepam may last longer in older adults. Accidental falls are common in elderly patients who take benzodiazepines.

Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury while you are taking Klonopin. Clonazepam may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Klonopin should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it.