Clobazam (Onfi)
Anticonvulsant | Benzodiazepine
- Indications and Usage:
- Clobazam is primarily used for the adjunctive treatment of seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome in patients two years of age or older. It is essential to tailor the use of Clobazam to each patient’s need and response to therapy.
- Dosage and Administration:
- Initiate Clobazam with a low dose, gradually increasing to avoid excessive sedation and minimize side effects. The usual starting dose is 5 mg/day with a typical maintenance dose of 10-40 mg/day in divided doses. In some patients, especially the elderly or those with liver impairment, a lower starting dose may be advisable.
- Drug Interactions:
- Clobazam is a CYP3A4 substrate; thus, drugs that inhibit or induce CYP3A4 can alter its blood levels. Increase monitoring when prescribing Clobazam with other central nervous system depressants, as it may enhance sedation and respiratory depression.
- Side Effects and Management:
- Common adverse effects include drowsiness, sedation, fatigue, and ataxia. Inform patients about the risks of operating machinery or driving. Adjust the dose if side effects are intolerable. Consider slower dose titration or division of dose.
- Tolerance and Dependence:
- There’s a potential for tolerance and dependence with prolonged use. Regularly assess the need for continued therapy, particularly in patients on long-term treatment. Provide guidance on slow tapering of the dose to mitigate withdrawal symptoms.
- Special Populations:
- Clobazam should be used cautiously in the elderly, in those with renal or liver dysfunction, and in those with a history of drug or substance abuse. Adjust dosages accordingly and monitor closely.
- Monitoring Parameters:
- Monitor for signs of enhanced sedation, respiratory depression, and other CNS effects, particularly after initiating therapy or increasing the dose. Regularly evaluate efficacy in controlling seizures and reassess the need for other anti-seizure medications.
- Patient Education:
- Educate patients and caregivers about the importance of adhering to prescribed dosages and the risks of abrupt discontinuation. Discuss the potential side effects and the need to report any unusual symptoms or worsening conditions.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
- The use of Clobazam during pregnancy is advised only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Advise breastfeeding mothers to monitor infants for sedation, poor feeding, and weight gain due to the potential for excretion in breast milk.
- Regulatory Status:
- Clobazam is a Schedule IV controlled substance, indicating a lower potential for abuse and dependence than Schedule II or III drugs, but still requiring careful monitoring and control.
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