Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Clonazepam as follows:
- Do not take clonazepam, if you ever manifested any allergic responses to intake of clonazepam or any other medications belonging to the same group as clonazepam, such as, oxazepam, lorazepam, prazepam, and alprazolam. In the event of an allergic response with any of these medications, check with your physician regarding your safety with intake of Clonazepam.
- Clonazepam, especially when taken in high doses, can lead to depression of respiratory center in the brain and difficulty breathing. Severe cases might also lead to emergency situations, such as, respiratory arrest and can result in serious debility and death. Clonazepam must be used with extra caution in individuals with history of breathing issues, such as, asthma and COPD, to prevent development of any episodes of severe SOB and respiratory arrest.
- Clonazepam is extensively metabolized in the liver and the metabolites are excreted in the urine. If liver function is deficient, the metabolism of Clonazepam can be compromised. In individuals with history of compromised renal function, the excretion of clonazepam can be compromised. In either case, clonazepam and metabolites stay in the body for prolonged duration of time in comparison to normal leading to increased blood levels of the medication and metabolites for longer periods of time. This can lead to increased risk for side-effects and consequent toxicity. So, Clonazepam could be cautiously administered or avoided for an alternative medication, in individuals with hepatic and/or renal dysfunction. Periodical labs for liver and/or renal function could be ordered and individuals monitored for development of any toxic symptoms. Discuss with your physician regarding history of compromised liver or kidney function, if any.
