Clonazepam can increase the risk of premature birth and low birth weight. Newborn withdrawal and “floppy babysyndrome” are other possible side effects. It is important to discuss this with your doctor and caregivers.Regarding breastfeeding, caution is advised since clonazepam does pass into breast milk.What should I discuss with my health care provider before taking clonazepam?

What is the most important information I should know about clonazepam?
Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects
you because you may feel tired or dizzy.
When starting clonazepam, anxiety or insomnia may improve rapidly or over a period
of days.
Benzodiazepines, such as clonazepam, are often used for short periods of time only.
They may produce emotional and/or physical dependence (addiction) even when used
as recommended. With input from you, your health care provider will assess how long
you will need to take the medicine.
Do not stop taking clonazepam or change your dose without talking to your health care
provider first. Stopping clonazepam abruptly may result in one or more of the following
withdrawal symptoms: irritability, nausea, tremor, dizziness, blood pressure changes,
rapid heart rate, and/or seizures. Withdrawal reactions may occur when dosage
reduction occurs for any reason.
The use of clonazepam with opioid medications has led to serious side effects including
slowed, difficult breathing and death. Opioids are used to treat pain and include
medications such as codeine, oxycodone, morphine, and illegal drugs like heroin. Some
opioid medications are also found in cough syrup.
If you are taking clonazepam with an opioid medication, seek medical attention
immediately if you experience unusual dizziness, extreme sleepiness, or slowed or
troubled breathing. Caregivers must get medical help right away if a patient is
unresponsive.

MEDICATION FACT SHEET: CLONAZEPAM 2mg
Are there specific concerns about clonazepam and pregnancy?
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, notify your health care provider to best manage your medications. People living
with anxiety disorders who wish to become pregnant face important decisions regarding risk versus benefit of benzodiazepine use in
pregnancy. Clonazepam can increase the risk of premature birth and low birth weight. Newborn withdrawal and “floppy baby
syndrome” are other possible side effects. It is important to discuss this with your doctor and caregivers.
Regarding breastfeeding, caution is advised since clonazepam does pass into breast milk.
What should I discuss with my health care provider before taking clonazepam?
- Symptoms of your condition that bother you the most
- If you have thoughts of suicide or harming yourself
- Medications you have taken in the past for your condition, whether they were effective or caused any adverse effects
- If you experience side effects from your medications, discuss them with your health care provider. Some side effects may
pass with time, but others may require changes in the medication. - Any other psychiatric or medical problems you have including obstructive sleep apnea
- All other medications you are currently taking (including over the counter products and herbal and nutritional supplements)
and any medication allergies you have - Other non-medication treatment you are receiving such as talk therapy or substance abuse treatment. Your provider can
explain how these different treatments work with the medication. - If you are elderly or are prone to falls
- If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding
- If you have acute narrow-angle glaucoma or untreated open-angle glaucoma
- If you have liver disease
- If you have phenylketonuria (PKU)
- If you drink alcohol or use drugs
How should I take clonazepam?
Clonazepam may be taken with or without food. Take with food if you experience an upset stomach.
Clonazepam may be taken every day at regular times or on an as needed (“PRN”) basis. Typically, your health care provider will limit
the number of doses you should take in one day.
Your health care provider will determine the dose and method of taking the medication that is right for you based upon your response.
Clonazepam orally disintegrating tablets must remain in their original packaging. Open the package with clean dry hands before each
dose. Do not try to put these tablets in a pillbox. Take the tablets right away, do not store for later use.
Clonazepam orally disintegrating tablets will dissolve in your mouth within seconds and can be swallowed with or without liquid.
If you take the medication every day (instead of ‘as needed’), use a calendar, pillbox, alarm clock, or cell phone alert to help you
remember to take it. You may also ask a family member or friend to remind you or check in with you to be sure you are taking your
medication.
What happens if I miss a dose of clonazepam?
If you miss a dose of clonazepam, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is closer to the time of your next dose. Discuss this with
your health care provider. Do not double your next dose or take more than what is prescribed.
What should I avoid while taking clonazepam?
Avoid drinking alcohol and using illegal drugs while you are taking clonazepam. They may decrease the benefits (e.g., worsen your
condition) and increase the adverse effects (e.g., sedation) of the medication. Alcohol increases the risk of accidental overdose with
medications like clonazepam

