NZ Formulary

Clobazam

klob-ah-zam

What does it do?

Clobazam is used to treat and prevent seizures.

Before you start

  • Tell your doctor if you have sleep apnoea.
  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take clobazam regularly as directed. You can take it with or without food.
Tablet: Take with a glass of water.
Liquid: Measure carefully with an oral syringe or measuring spoon. Shake the bottle well before measuring each dose.

What if you forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as possible and continue as directed.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with clobazam including:

  • some antihistamines, such as chlorphenamine, hyoscine, meclozine and promethazine. These can be in medicines for allergies, nausea and colds.
  • omeprazole (e.g. Losec®)

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products (e.g. St John's wort, ginkgo) or recreational drugs (e.g. ecstasy).

What side effects might you notice?

Side EffectsRecommended action

Slow or shallow breathing, hard to wake up

Tell your doctor immediately

Mood changes, agitation, unusual behaviour or thinking, loss of coordination, trouble speaking

Tell your doctor

Drowsiness, tiredness or weakness, dizziness

More saliva than usual, drooling

Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

  • Clobazam can impair your ability to do tasks such as driving or using machines. Alcohol makes this worse. Discuss your risk with your health professional. (search NZTA - Are you safe to drive?)
  • Do not stop taking clobazam without talking to your doctor first.