Patient/caregiver was instructed upon therapeutic uses of clonazepam as follows:
Muscle spasms
- As clonazepam depresses the brain and spinal cord, it helps with reducing and weakening the impulses reaching out to the skeletal muscles from the brain and spinal cord. This can lead to reduced motor activity, relief of muscle spasms, promotion of skeletal muscle relaxation and rest.
Seizure disorders
- Clonazepam by inhibiting the nerve impulses can help with reduced excitation of nerves, thus contributing to seizure control.
- Clonazepam can be used as an anticonvulsant, for seizure control, in combination with other antiseizure medications.
Sleep disorders
- Clonazepam, by enhancing the effects of the inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA, can reduce excitability of the brain, reduce alertness & activity, and reduce time to fall asleep. This can contribute towards promoting sleep in individuals with complaints of trouble falling/staying asleep and insomnia.
Alcohol withdrawal
- Individuals on sudden abstinence from alcohol consumption after chronic addiction to alcohol and alcoholic products can present with withdrawal symptoms, such as, agitation, anxiety, and hallucinations.
- Clonazepam, by calming the agitation and anxiety, can help control the symptoms of acute/sudden alcohol withdrawal.
