Clonazepam — NZ Medication Guide
✅ Reviewed by Ramon Wong, BPharm, Registered Pharmacist (New Zealand) | May 2026
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalised advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always seek professional guidance before making changes to your medications.
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
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The following New Zealand and international resources were used to inform this page: