Clorazepate is used in treatment of anxiety, some forms of convulsions and of symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal.
What is Clorazepate?
Clorazepate is a benzodiazepine. It acts by slowing the speed of movement of certain molecules in the brain, thus reducing the anxiety and inducing, in some cases, drowsiness.
How should Clorazepate be taken?
Clorazepate is administered orally, generally in the form of tablets.
Side effects associated with Clorazepate
Among the possible adverse effects of Clorazepate are included:
- Tarnished vision
- Coordination difficulties
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Feeling faint or lightheaded
- Nervousness
- Stomach discomfort
- Instability
- Unusual weakness
You should immediately contact a doctor if taking Clorazepate triggers any of the following symptoms:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Itching
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in the chest
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue
- Reduced urination or reduction of the amount of produced urine
- Double vision
- Mood changes or problems
- New seizures or worsening of pre-existing ones
- Difficulty speaking
- Suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts
- Tremors
- Insomnia
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Clorazepate
Clorazepate should not be taken in case of narrow-angle glaucoma or severe liver problems. It is also contraindicated in case of intake of sodium oxybate.
Clorazepate can compromise the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery, especially if taken in combination with alcohol or other medicines that may cause drowsiness. It may also cause addiction or tolerance, especially when taken for long periods or at high doses; therefore, it is recommended to follow the doctor's prescription and avoid suddenly stopping treatment, because it may cause symptoms of a true withdrawal.
Moreover, before you start taking Clorazepate it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, to other components or to other drugs or foods
- You are taking other medications, herbal remedies and supplements, citing in particular hydantoins, rifampin, cimetidine, clozapine, disulfiram, HIV protease inhibitors, hormonal contraceptives, methadone, nefazodone, omeprazole, sodium oxybate or valproic acid
- You suffer (or have suffered) from glaucoma, kidney or liver problems, seizures, muscle problems, blood or lung disorders, psychiatric or mood disorders or psychosis
- You have suicidal thoughts
- You suffer from substance abuse or addiction (even if past problems)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
