Clozam

Clozam Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Clozam is a brand name. Its generic name is Clobazam.

Clozam

Clozam is an anticonvulsant and anxiolytic medicine in the benzodiazepine family of drugs used to treat anxiety disorders, epileptic seizures, and behavioral problems in children. It is also used to relieve muscle pain and discomfort due to various conditions.

Uses

Clozam is used to treat a number of conditions including anxiety disorders, epilepsy, and behavioral problems in children. It is also used to treat certain types of seizures, as an adjunct to other anti-epileptic medications.

Mechanism Of Action

Clozam works by suppressing the abnormal electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures and other neurological disorders. It does so by binding to the benzodiazepine receptor in the brain and activating the neurotransmitter GABA. This leads to increased levels of GABA, which in turn decreases the excitability of neurons. The binding of Clozam also enhances the inhibitory effects of the neurotransmitter dopamine.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

Clozam usually takes effect within about an hour of ingestion. The peak effect usually occurs 2-4 hours after consumption.

Absorption

Clozam is rapidly and completely absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and is widely distributed in the body. The mean bioavailability of Clozam is 70%.

Route Of Elimination

Clozam is metabolized in the liver and excreted through the kidneys. It is primarily eliminated as its glucuronide conjugate, which is excreted in the urine.

Dosage

The dosage of clobazam depends on the indication and patient’s age and medical condition. The dose may be increased as tolerated, typically starting with 0.5-1 mg daily in adults and 0.25 mg per day in children. The maximum dose for adults is 20 mg per day while the maximum dose in children is 10 mg per day.

Administration

Clozam can be administered orally, rectally or intramuscularly. The oral form of clobazam must be taken with or after food. It should be taken with a full glass of water.

Side Effect

Some of the common side effects of clobazam include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, difficulty focusing, vision changes, and changes in weight or appetite. More serious side effects include confusion, seizures, difficulty breathing, unusual behavior, and severe allergic reactions.

Toxicity

Overdosing on clobazam can be serious and even life-threatening. Symptoms of overdose include excessive drowsiness, disorientation, confusion, depression, changes in muscle tone, respiratory depression, and coma.

Precautions

Before taking clobazam, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about any other medications that you are taking, any allergies you may have, and any medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease. Clozam may impair your thinking or reactions and make you drowsy. Do not drive or do anything that requires alertness until you know how this medication affects you. Clozam should not be used in children younger than 6 years old.

Interactions

Clozam can interact with other medications. Some medications that may interact with clobazam include MAO inhibitors, benzodiazepines, alcohol, opioids, barbiturates, narcotics, muscle relaxants, and anti-seizure medications. Make sure to inform your healthcare provider about any medications that you are taking.

Disease Interaction

Clozam can interact with certain conditions or diseases, including liver or kidney disease, glaucoma, depression, psychosis, and suicidal thoughts or behavior. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust or reduce your dosage of clobazam if you have any of these conditions.

Drug Interaction

Drug interactions can occur if clobazam is taken with other medications, such as MAO inhibitors, alcohol, muscle relaxants, narcotics, barbiturates, or other anticonvulsant drugs. Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications that you are taking.

Food Interactions

Food can interact with clobazam, particularly grapefruit juice and other citrus fruits. These can decrease the effectiveness of clobazam. It is best to avoid these foods while taking clobazam.

Pregnancy Use

Clozam is not recommended for use during pregnancy due to potential risks to the unborn baby. Talk to your healthcare provider about other medications that can be taken during pregnancy.

Lactation Use

Clozam is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women due to the potential for harm to the infant. Talk to your healthcare provider about other medications that can be taken while breastfeeding.

Acute Overdose

In case of acute overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of overdose include excessive drowsiness, disorientation, confusion, depression, changes in muscle tone, respiratory depression, and coma.

Contraindications

Clozam should not be used in people with known hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines, as well as in those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of drug or alcohol abuse. It should also be used with caution in those with hepatic or renal impairment.

Use Direction

Clozam should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider. For oral administration, the tablet should be taken with food. It should not be taken more than the prescribed amount. The dose may need to be adjusted depending on your response to the medication.

Storage Condition

Clozam should be stored at room temperature in a tightly closed container. Keep this medicine away from light, moisture, and heat. Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink. Keep away from children and pets.

Volume Of Distribution

Clozam has a mean volume of distribution of 0.8 L/kg.

Half Life

The half-life of clobazam is 27-47 hours.

Clearance

The mean clearance of clobazam is 17 L/hr.

Here you find in details version of Clozam

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Clozam

What is Clozam?

Clozam is a benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety and seizures. It can also be prescribed to help control agitation related to schizophrenia or to treat insomnia.

Why is Clozam prescribed?

Clozam is used to reduce the intensity of seizures caused by certain forms of epilepsy, as well as to help manage anxiety and agitation related to schizophrenia.

How does Clozam work?

Clozam works by binding to receptors in the brain to reduce the number of nerve impulses reaching the brain, which can reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures or reduce anxiety and agitation.

What are the possible side effects of Clozam?

Common side effects of Clozam include drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness, blurred vision, dry mouth, and nausea. Less common side effects may include breathing issues, confusion, muscle weakness, headache, depression, and changes in behavior.

Is Clozam habit-forming?

Yes, Clozam can be habit-forming and should be taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor. It’s important to follow all instructions and your doctor’s recommendations carefully.

What is the recommended dosage of Clozam?

The recommended starting dose of Clozam is 10 mg per day (or 2.5 mg twice per day for children). Your doctor may adjust your dose depending on your condition and response to treatment.

How long does it take Clozam to work?

Clozam usually takes effect within 1 to 2 hours after taking it. The effects of Clozam can last for up to 8 hours.

What should I avoid while taking Clozam?

People taking Clozam should avoid operating machinery, driving, and other activities that require alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity. Alcohol should also be avoided while taking Clozam as it may increase the risk of side effects.

Does Clozam interact with any other drugs?

Yes, Clozam can interact with other medications, including some antidepressants, antibiotics, narcotics, anticonvulsants, anti-anxiety drugs, and antihistamines. Talk to your doctor about any potential drug interactions before taking Clozam.

What is an overdose of Clozam?

An overdose of Clozam can cause symptoms such as confusion, sedation, coma, loss of muscular coordination, or breathing problems. If you think you or someone else may have overdosed on Clozam, call 911 immediately.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Clozam?

If you miss a dose of Clozam, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to the time for your next dose. In that case, just skip the missed dose and take your next dose as scheduled. Do not double your dose to make up for a missed dose.

What should I do if I think I am having an allergic reaction to Clozam?

If you think you are having an allergic reaction to Clozam, contact your doctor right away. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Can I take Clozam if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Clozam should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women unless the benefits outweigh the risks. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding so they can adjust your dose if necessary.

Can I take Clozam with other medications?

Clozam can interact with other medications, so tell your doctor about any drugs, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. Your doctor can then adjust your dose if necessary to avoid interactions.

Can children take Clozam?

Yes, Clozam is approved for use in children ages 2 and older. However, the dosage and side effects may be different for children than for adults.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Clozam?

No, it is not advised to drink alcohol while taking Clozam as it may increase the risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about drinking alcohol while taking Clozam.

Does Clozam cause weight gain?

Some people may experience weight gain while taking Clozam, although weight gain is not listed as a common side effect. If you are concerned about weight gain, talk to your doctor.

Does Clozam cause drowsiness?

Yes, drowsiness is a common side effect of Clozam and can last up to 8 hours. Do not operate heavy machinery or drive while taking Clozam if you experience drowsiness.

How long should I take Clozam?

Clozam should be taken as long as your doctor prescribes it. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions for taking Clozam and not to stop taking it without consulting your doctor first.

What are the long-term effects of taking Clozam?

The long-term effects of taking Clozam have not been fully established. It is important to take Clozam exactly as prescribed by your doctor and to not exceed the recommended dosage.

Can Clozam be used to treat anxiety?

Yes, Clozam can be used to treat anxiety. It is a benzodiazepine medication that works by binding to receptors in the brain to reduce the number of nerve impulses reaching the brain, which can reduce anxiety.

When should I take Clozam?

Your doctor will advise you when to take Clozam. It is typically taken one or two times per day, depending on your doctor’s instructions. It is important to take Clozam at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your system.

What should I do if I experience serious side effects from taking Clozam?

If you experience serious side effects from taking Clozam, such as difficulty breathing or changes in behavior, contact your doctor or go to the emergency room right away.

Should I take Clozam with food?

Clozam can be taken with or without food. Your doctor will advise you on the best way to take it, but typically it is best to take it with food to reduce the risk of side effects.

How can I reduce my risk of experiencing side effects from Clozam?

To reduce your risk of experiencing side effects from Clozam, take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Avoid drinking alcohol and do not operate machinery while taking Clozam. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about taking Clozam.

Are there any alternatives to Clozam?

Yes, there are several alternatives to Clozam, including other benzodiazepines and some anticonvulsants. Talk to your doctor about the best treatment for your condition.

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of with Clozam?

Yes, Clozam can interact with other medications, including some antidepressants, antibiotics, narcotics, anticonvulsants, anti-anxiety drugs, and antihistamines. Talk to your doctor about potential drug interactions before taking Clozam.

Are there any foods or drinks I should avoid while taking Clozam?

It is important to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Clozam as it may increase the risk of side effects. Talk to your doctor to find out if there are any other foods or drinks that you should avoid while taking Clozam.

How should I store Clozam?

Clozam should be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep Clozam out of reach of children and pets, and dispose of any unused medication properly.

Should I take other drugs while taking Clozam?

Talk to your doctor before taking any other medications while taking Clozam as some drugs can interact with each other and increase the risk of side effects. It is best to tell your doctor about any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you are taking.

Can I take Clozam if I have a history of depression?

Yes, Clozam can be taken if you have a history of depression. However, it is important to tell your doctor about any mental health issues you may have as Clozam can cause changes in mood or behavior.

Can I take herbal supplements while taking Clozam?

It is best to check with your doctor before taking any herbal supplements while taking Clozam, as some herbs can interact with Clozam and increase the risk of side effects. Your doctor can advise you on the best course of action.

Does Clozam work for everyone?

No, Clozam may not work for everyone. Some people may experience no benefit from taking Clozam, while others may experience both positive and negative effects. Talk to your doctor to discuss any concerns you may have about taking Clozam.

Can Clozam be used to treat insomnia?

Yes, Clozam can be used to treat insomnia. It is a benzodiazepine medication that works by binding to receptors in the brain to reduce the number of nerve impulses reaching the brain, which can reduce anxiety and reduce the frequency of awakenings.

What are the signs of a Clozam overdose?

Signs of a Clozam overdose can include confusion, sedation, coma, loss of muscular coordination, or breathing problems. If you think you or someone else may have overdosed on Clozam, call 911 immediately.

What are the withdrawal symptoms of Clozam?

Withdrawal symptoms that can occur after stopping Clozam may include headache, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, irritability, anxiety, dizziness, tremors, sweating, or seizures. It is important to talk to your doctor before stopping Clozam to avoid serious withdrawal symptoms.

What should I do if my symptoms are not improving while taking Clozam?

If your symptoms are not improving while taking Clozam, contact your doctor right away. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose or change the medication you are taking.

Can I take Clozam if I have a kidney or liver disease?

Yes, Clozam can be taken if you have a kidney or liver disease. However, it is important to talk to your doctor as your dose may need to be adjusted. Your doctor can also advise you on any other precautions you may need to take while taking Clozam.

Is Clozam safe for long-term use?

The long-term safety of Clozam has not been fully established. It is important to take Clozam exactly as prescribed by your doctor, and not to exceed the recommended dosage. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about the long-term safety of Clozam.