Clobazam 10 mg (Calm)

Product Overview Clobazam 10 mg is a prescription medication belonging to the benzodiazepine class (specifically a 1,5-benzodiazepine). It has anticonvulsant, anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), and sedative properties. It is primarily used as an adjunctive treatment for epilepsy (e.g., Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, refractory partial seizures) in patients who do not respond adequately to other antiepileptic drugs. It may also be used short-term for severe anxiety in some countries. Clobazam works by enhancing the effects of GABA in the brain, reducing abnormal electrical activity and promoting calm.

Important Warning Clobazam is intended for long-term use in epilepsy only under specialist supervision; for anxiety, short-term only (typically 2–4 weeks). Prolonged use can lead to tolerance, physical and psychological dependence, and withdrawal symptoms (including seizures). It is a controlled substance with potential for abuse and addiction. Concomitant use with opioids, alcohol, or other CNS depressants can cause profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, or death. Always follow your doctor’s instructions precisely.

Dosage and Administration

• Adults (epilepsy, adjunctive): Start with 5–15 mg/day (e.g., 5–10 mg at night); gradually increase to maintenance 20–30 mg/day in divided doses; maximum 60–80 mg/day in severe cases.
• For anxiety: 10–30 mg/day in divided doses, short-term.
• Elderly or debilitated patients: Start with lower doses (e.g., 5–10 mg/day) due to higher risk of side effects and prolonged action.
• Children (epilepsy): Dosing based on body weight; usually under specialist care.
• Take with or without food.
• Do not stop suddenly (especially in epilepsy)—taper off gradually under medical supervision to prevent rebound seizures or withdrawal.

Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness, sedation, or fatigue
• Dizziness, ataxia (unsteadiness), or muscle weakness
• Dry mouth, constipation, or headache
• Memory impairment or confusion (especially in elderly)

Serious side effects (seek immediate medical help): Severe respiratory depression, unusual behavior changes (e.g., aggression, hallucinations), worsening seizures, suicidal thoughts, or signs of allergic reaction (rash, swelling).

Precautions and Contraindications

• Do not use if you have: Known hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines, severe respiratory insufficiency, sleep apnea syndrome, severe liver impairment, myasthenia gravis, acute narrow-angle glaucoma, or history of drug/alcohol dependence.
• Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants (e.g., opioids, sedatives)—can cause life-threatening respiratory depression.
• Not recommended during pregnancy (risk of fetal harm) or breastfeeding (passes into breast milk).
• May impair driving or operating machinery—do not drive if affected.
• Use extreme caution in elderly patients due to increased risk of falls, confusion, cognitive impairment, and fractures. Monitor for skin reactions or salivary hypersecretion in children.

Storage Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Note: This information is for general guidance. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice, and read the patient information leaflet provided with your medication. Clobazam should only be used when prescribed.