Clozam 10

CLOZAM 10 by ABBOTT is a benzodiazepine medication used to manage certain neurological and psychiatric conditions. It is available as a 10mg tablet.

Name

• Common Name: Clobazam
• Brand Name: CLOZAM 10 (by Abbott)

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Clobazam 10mg

Uses

CLOZAM 10 is primarily prescribed for:

• Epilepsy/Seizures: Used as an adjunctive treatment to control seizures, including those associated with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS), by stabilizing the electrical activity of nerve cells in the brain.
• Severe Anxiety: Prescribed for the short-term management of severe anxiety.
• Schizophrenia: Can be used in combination with other medicines to treat schizophrenia.
• Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome: Also used to relieve short-term symptoms of alcohol withdrawal syndrome.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage is determined by a doctor and can vary based on the medical condition and patient's response.

• General Guidance: It is usually advised to take it at the same time each day, with or without food. Tablets can be swallowed whole, or crushed and mixed with applesauce if needed.
• Initiation: For adults, a starting dose of 10mg per day, often taken at night, is common, which may be gradually increased. For children, a lower starting dose is typically recommended.
• Important: Do not stop taking CLOZAM 10 suddenly, as abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms and an increase in seizure frequency.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Tiredness, drowsiness, and sleepiness
• Slurred speech or speech disorder
• Constipation, dry mouth, decreased appetite, nausea
• Dizziness, loss of muscle coordination, tremors, difficulty in paying attention
• Irritability, restlessness, aggression, agitation
• Headache

Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include:

• Blisters on the skin or inside the mouth, severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
• Slow, shallow, or weak breathing
• Thoughts of suicide or self-harm, unusual excitement, confusion, or hallucinations
• Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction (e.g., hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat)

Precautions

• Dependence and Withdrawal: CLOZAM 10 has a high potential for habit-forming, and prolonged use can lead to dependence. Withdrawal should always be gradual and under medical supervision.
• Alcohol and CNS Depressants: Avoid alcohol and other medications that cause drowsiness, as this can increase sedation and respiratory depression. Concomitant use with opioids can lead to profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Due to potential dizziness, sleepiness, and concentration problems, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding, as it may be unsafe or cause adverse effects on the baby.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver disease, depression, suicidal tendencies, myasthenia gravis, sleep apnea, or other breathing problems. Regular monitoring of blood and liver functions may be required with long-term use.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all current medications, including herbal supplements, as CLOZAM 10 can interact with various drugs, affecting their effectiveness or increasing side effects. Avoid grapefruit juice.

Storage

• Store below 30°C or at room temperature (15-30°C / 68-77°F).
• Protect from moisture, heat, and direct light.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.

CLOZAM 10 (Clobazam) is a benzodiazepine medication used to treat various conditions by calming excessive nerve activity in the brain. Below are some frequently asked questions about this medicine.

What is CLOZAM 10 used for?

CLOZAM 10 is primarily used to treat epilepsy (seizures) and severe anxiety for short periods. It can also be used as an add-on therapy for certain seizure disorders like Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS) and, in some cases, as an adjunctive treatment for mental illnesses such as schizophrenia. Additionally, it may be prescribed for the short-term relief of alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

How does CLOZAM 10 work?

CLOZAM 10 contains Clobazam, which belongs to a class of medicines called benzodiazepines. It works by increasing the effect of a natural calming chemical in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This helps to suppress the abnormal and excessive activity of nerve cells in the brain, thereby producing a calming effect, reducing seizures, and alleviating anxiety.

What is the usual dosage of CLOZAM 10?

The dosage of CLOZAM 10 varies depending on the condition being treated and the patient's age and weight, and should always be followed as prescribed by a doctor. For adults with anxiety, the usual dose is 10-20 mg daily, which may be taken as a single dose at night or in divided doses. For epilepsy, adults might start with 20-30 mg per day, increasing up to a maximum of 60 mg daily. For children aged 2 to 16, the starting dose is typically 5 mg daily, gradually increasing to a maximum of 40 mg per day. The tablets can be taken with or without food, and a daily dose greater than 5 mg is often administered in divided doses.

What are the possible side effects of CLOZAM 10?

Common side effects include drowsiness, sleepiness, fatigue, dry mouth, constipation, headache, nausea, slurred speech, and dizziness. More serious, though rare, side effects can include severe skin reactions (like Stevens-Johnson syndrome), suicidal thoughts or behavior, agitation, aggression, and difficulties with breathing. If any severe or unusual side effects occur, medical attention should be sought immediately.

Is CLOZAM 10 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

CLOZAM 10 is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, as it may pose risks to the unborn baby, including potential malformations or withdrawal symptoms in the newborn if taken late in pregnancy. It is also advised against during breastfeeding, as the medication can pass into breast milk and may affect the infant, potentially causing drowsiness or feeding difficulties. It is crucial to consult a doctor regarding its use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Can CLOZAM 10 be taken with other medications?

CLOZAM 10 can interact with several other medications, increasing the risk of side effects. It is particularly important to avoid alcohol due to increased drowsiness and potential respiratory depression. Concomitant use with opioids, other central nervous system depressants (like antidepressants, sleeping pills, or other anxiety medications), and certain antiepileptics can also enhance sedative effects. CLOZAM 10 may also reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, so alternative birth control methods should be considered. Always inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, herbal, and vitamin supplements you are taking.

What precautions should be taken with CLOZAM 10?

Do not stop taking CLOZAM 10 suddenly without consulting your doctor, as abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms or increased seizure frequency. Caution is advised for patients with kidney or liver disease, respiratory problems, or a history of depression, mood disorders, or drug/alcohol abuse. Due to potential drowsiness and dizziness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. Regular monitoring of blood and liver functions may be required with long-term use.

What happens if a dose of CLOZAM 10 is missed?

If you miss a dose of CLOZAM 10, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten tablet. Consistency in dosing is important for maintaining effective blood levels, especially for seizure control.

How should CLOZAM 10 be stored?

CLOZAM 10 tablets should be stored at room temperature, typically below 30°C (86°F), and protected from moisture and heat. Keep the medicine in a closed container and out of the reach of children. Do not use outdated medicine.