Clonazepam — NZ Medication Guide
📋 Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ — This information is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
What is Clonazepam?
Clonazepam is a long-acting benzodiazepine used for epilepsy, panic disorder, and restless legs syndrome. This medication is funded by Pharmac for epilepsy under Special Authority; Class C controlled drug.
What is Clonazepam Used For?
Clonazepam is used as adjunct or monotherapy for certain seizure types (myoclonic, akinetic, absence seizures, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome), panic disorder, and restless legs syndrome. It is a Class C controlled drug.
How Does Clonazepam Work?
Clonazepam enhances GABA-A receptor function, increasing inhibitory neurotransmission in the central nervous system. Its long half-life (18–50 hours) makes it suitable for conditions requiring sustained CNS inhibition, such as epilepsy and panic disorder.
How to Take Clonazepam
For epilepsy: start at 0.5 mg/day increasing to 4–8 mg/day in 2–4 divided doses. For panic disorder: 0.25 mg twice daily increasing to 1 mg/day. For restless legs: 0.5–2 mg at bedtime. Tablets are available in 0.5 mg and 2 mg. Do not stop abruptly.
Common Side Effects of Clonazepam
- Sedation and drowsiness
- Dizziness and ataxia
- Memory impairment
- Irritability or depression
- Weight gain
Serious Side Effects — Seek Medical Attention
Contact your doctor or call 111 immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Dependence and withdrawal seizures (do not stop abruptly after prolonged use)
- Respiratory depression (with other CNS depressants)
- Paradoxical excitation (in children and the elderly)
- Anterograde amnesia
- Suicidal ideation (all antiepileptics)
Drug Interactions
Clonazepam may interact with other medicines. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist of all medications you are taking. Key interactions include:
- Other CNS depressants (alcohol, opioids — additive respiratory depression)
- Other anticonvulsants (complex interactions)
- Valproate (may increase absence seizures paradoxically in some patients)
New Zealand Prescribing Information
Clonazepam (0.5 mg and 2 mg tablets — Rivotril®) is funded by Pharmac under Special Authority for epilepsy. As a Class C controlled substance, prescriptions must comply with NZ Controlled Drugs regulations. Long-term use in non-epileptic indications (anxiety, insomnia) is not recommended due to dependence risks. Any discontinuation of clonazepam must be gradual (dose reduced by no more than 25% per 1–2 weeks) to prevent withdrawal seizures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stop clonazepam suddenly if I have been taking it for epilepsy?
No — abrupt cessation of clonazepam can cause withdrawal seizures, even in patients without a prior seizure history. Always reduce the dose gradually under your neurologist’s supervision. This is particularly critical in epilepsy management.
Is clonazepam the same as Rivotril?
Yes — Rivotril® is the brand name for clonazepam in New Zealand and many countries. Generic clonazepam is also available. They contain the same active ingredient at the same dose.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or a qualified health provider. In New Zealand, medication availability and funding may vary — check with Pharmac or your pharmacist for current information.
Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ
References & Further Information
The following New Zealand and international resources were used to inform this page: