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Common brand name: Tranxene
Type of medication: Anticonvulsant, antianxiety
Why is this drug prescribed?
Clorazepate is prescribed to treat epilepsy. It helps control the frequency
and severity of seizures by slowing down the central nervous system. It may also
be used to treat other conditions such as anxiety or difficulty sleeping.
How is clorazepate given?
Clorazepate comes in the form of a tablet to be taken by mouth with or
without food. Individual doses vary, and your doctor will tell you how much to
take at each dose. In order for clorazepate to effectively control your
seizures, it is important that a constant amount of it remains in the
bloodstream. In order to accomplish this, try taking the drug around the same
time everyday as ordered by your doctor.
Follow the directions on the prescription label carefully. If there is any
part that you do not understand, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Do not take any
more or less than prescribed and do not take it more often than prescribed. NEVER
stop taking this drug without talking to your physician. This drug will need
to be gradually discontinued.
What special precautions should I follow before using this drug?
Before taking clorazepate, inform your doctor of any prescription or
over-the-counter medications that you are currently taking; this includes any
herbal medications or dietary supplements that you are taking. Also, be sure to
tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems including any:
- Drug or alcohol abuse or a history of
- Brain diseases
- Emphysema, asthma, bronchitis or other chronic lung diseases.
- Glaucoma
- Hyperactivity
- Depression
- Myasthenia gravis
- Porphyria (inherited diseases characterized by skin sensitivity to
sunlight and/or by intermittent acute attacks of abdominal and nerve pain)
- Sleep apnea
- Kidney or liver disease
What special instructions should I follow while using this drug?
Clorazepate adds to the effects of other central nervous system suppressants
such as alcohol and those found in many antihistamines, cold medications, pain
medications and muscle relaxants. Check with your doctor before taking any of
these items.
Because this medication can cause drowsiness and dizziness, make sure you are
aware of how this drug reacts before driving or using machines that require you
to be alert.
Before you have any kind of surgery, dental treatment or emergency treatment,
tell your doctor or dentist if you are using this medication.
Your doctor may want you to carry a medical identification card or bracelet
stating that you are taking this medication.
What are the common side effects?
The most common side effects of clorazepate include:
- Clumsiness or unsteadiness
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Slurred speech
- Skin rash
When should I call my doctor?
If you experience any of the following side effects, contact you doctor
immediately:
- Anxiety
- Fast, irregular heartbeat
- Loss of memory of events taking place after the drug has been taken
- Depression
- Seizures
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent termor
- Have any questions or concerns
What should I do if I forget a dose?
If a dose is missed, simply take it as soon as you remember if it is within
an hour of the scheduled dose. Otherwise simply skip the missed dose and proceed
with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
What storage conditions are necessary for this drug?
Clorazepate should be kept in its original container, tightly sealed and
away from children. The tablet form should be stored in room temperature, away
from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom) and out of direct sunlight.
Any medication that is outdated or unused should be thrown away.
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