Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Clonazepam as follows:
- When taken together, Clonazepam can interact with a number of other medications and can precipitate serious reactions. Some medications, such as, oral contraceptives, some antibiotics, anti-GERD agents like omeprazole, inhibit the enzymes needed for the metabolism of Clonazepam. Concurrent administration of these medications with Clonazepam can inhibit the metabolism of clonazepam. Thus, clonazepam stays in the body for prolonged duration of time in comparison to normal and stand the risk of causing toxicity.
- Avoid taking Clonazepam with grapefruit juice, as it can also inhibit the enzymes needed for the metabolism of Clonazepam. Concurrent administration of grapefruit juice with clonazepam can inhibit the metabolism of clonazepam. Thus, clonazepam stays in the body for prolonged duration of time in comparison to normal and stand the risk of causing toxicity.
- Some medications, such as, phenytoin and carbamazepine, induce the enzymes needed for the metabolism of Clonazepam. Concurrent administration of these medications with Clonazepam can quicken the metabolism of clonazepam and clear the medication out of the body quicker. Thus, clonazepam stays in the body for shorter duration of time in comparison to normal and results in compromised therapeutic benefit. If you are being newly started on Clonazepam, discuss with your physician regarding all other medications you are currently taking and their safety with Clonazepam. Also, if you have been taking Clonazepam for long, discuss with your physician regarding your history of Clonazepam intake, when you are being started on any new medication.
