Avisa Recovery

The Truth About Clorazepate Side Effects: What You Need to Know

clorazepate-side-effects

Are you someone who is considering starting Clorazepate but is worried about its side effects? It’s important to be fully informed before beginning any medication.

In this blog, we will deliver a thorough and honest outline of Clorazepate’s side effects. Clorazepate is a commonly prescribed benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety and insomnia. It may have adverse effects, just like any medication. Comprehending these side effects will help you make an informed decision about whether Clorazepate is good for you.

We will explore both the common and unique clorazepate side effects, studying their frequency and severity. While some side effects may be gentle and easily managed, others may be more serious and require medical attention. It’s important to be mindful of potential interactions and any pre-existing conditions that may boost your risk of experiencing certain side effects.

By providing you with proper information, we aim to empower you to have informed conversations with your healthcare provider about the possible benefits and risks of Clorazepate. 

What is Clorazepate Dipotassium? 

Clorazepate is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen) that is used for the treatment of anxiety disorders, partial seizures, or alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

It is also known as Tranxene, Tranxilium, and Novo-Clopate. It is primarily prescribed for the treatment of anxiety disorders, acute alcohol withdrawal symptoms, and certain types of seizures.

Clorazepate Dipotassium is often used to provide short-term relief from anxiety symptoms, including nervousness, tension, and jitteriness. It can also be used as a part of a complete treatment plan for epilepsy and other seizure conditions.

This medication is available in pill form and is generally taken orally. The doctor or other healthcare professional determines the medication’s dosage and length of time based on the patient’s medical needs. As with all prescriptions, it is necessary to follow the specified dosage and procedure to minimize the risk of side effects and dependency.

Why is Clorazepate prescribed?

Clorazepate is used to relieve anxiety. When treating specific kinds of seizures, clorazepate is also used in conjunction with other pharmaceuticals. It is also used to relieve uncomfortable symptoms that people who have stopped drinking alcohol after consuming large amounts of it for a long period of time may experience.

How to use Clorazepate Dipotassium

Clorazepate dipotassium is commonly taken orally in tablet form. The dosage and course of treatment depend on the severity of the condition and the individual response. Follow the advice on your pharmaceutical label and read all prescription guides or instruction sheets. Never use clorazepate in enormous amounts or for longer than specified. If you experience a stronger desire to take more clorazepate, let your doctor know.

Never give this medication to someone else, especially if they have a history of drug abuse. Make sure the medication is out of reach for others. It is illegal to sell or give away this medication.

If you use clorazepate long-term, you may need regular medical tests.

If your symptoms worsen or do not get better, give your doctor a call.

Never stop taking clorazepate without first consulting your physician. If you abruptly stop taking the medication after a prolonged period of use, you might experience potentially fatal withdrawal symptoms.

Keep out of the heat, light, and moisture. Store it at room temperature. Make sure no one can misuse your medication by keeping it in a secure location.

What are the Clorazepate side effects (Tranxene)?

Clorazepate side effects can delay or block your breathing, particularly if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. A person supervising you should pursue emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, blue-colored lips, or if it is hard to wake up.

Get emergency medical assistance if you have symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives; problems breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Inform your doctor right away if you have new or impulsive changes in mood or behavior, including new or worse depression or anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, feverish, hostile, assertive, restless, more active or talkative, or have thoughts about suicide or harming yourself.

Clorazepate may generate severe outcomes. Contact your doctor at once if you have:

  • severe drowsiness and may impair alertness 
  • slow breathing (breathing may stop), especially when standing up
  • confusion, paranoia, unusual thoughts or behaviors
  • a seizure; or
  • suicidal thoughts or actions.

Drowsiness or dizziness may stay longer in older adults. Use caution to avoid falling or an accidental injury.

Other Side Effects

Trouble sleeping

Skin rash

Tiredness

Poor coordination

Double vision

Easily irritated

Depression

Bladder control problems

Shakiness, tremor

Slurred speech

Serious Side Effects

Your healthcare provider should be contacted immediately if any of the following are experienced.

  • Overdose: Drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, slurred speech, difficulty remembering, trouble breathing, inability to wake up, coma, hallucinations, blurry vision, death
  • Withdrawal: Anxiety, panic, trouble sleeping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, hallucinations, blurry vision, mood swings, muscle cramps
  • Suicidal thoughts and conduct
  • Excessive tiredness

The following clorazepate side effects may improve over time as the medication is adjusted to your body. Your healthcare provider should be informed immediately if these symptoms persist or worsen over time.

What are the risks and warnings for Clorazepate (Tranxene)?

Clorazepate (Tranxene) can generate some severe health problems. This risk may be even higher for specific groups. If this bothers you, talk to your doctor or druggist about other options.

1. Breathing problems, coma, and death

Risk factors: Taking clorazepate (Tranxene) with opioids

Taking clorazepate (Tranxene) with certain pain medications called opioids can cause a life-threatening interaction that can lead to severe drowsiness, problems breathing, coma, or death. It’s very important not to integrate clorazepate (Tranxene) with opioids unless you’re under the close surveillance of a healthcare professional. If you need to take both at the same time, take the lowest possible dose for the shortest period. If you feel extremely sleepy or like you are having trouble breathing, get emergency help. Inform your loved ones or caregivers to help you stay alert for these symptoms and to contact medical professionals immediately, especially if taking clorazepate (Tranxene) causes you to lose consciousness.

2. Misuse, dependency, and withdrawal

Risk factors: History of substance misuse; taking with alcohol or with other medications that have the possibility for misuse or dependence; taking clorazepate (Tranxene) for a long time; preventing clorazepate (Tranxene) unexpectedly 

Clorazepate (Tranxene) is a controlled medication because there’s a high risk for dependency and misuse. Your body can become dependent on the medication, even if you’re taking it as exactly as directed. You’re recommended to take the lowest dose of clorazepate (Tranxene) for the shortest amount of time to lower this risk. If you have been taking it for a long time and want to stop, ask your prescriber how you can do so safely. Stopping this medication all of a sudden can lead to serious withdrawal symptoms, including seizures, dizziness, and muscle cramps, that might last weeks to over a year at a time.

3. Problem with attention and focus

Risk factors: Alcohol use; taking other medications that cause drowsiness

Taking clorazepate (Tranxene) can make you feel drowsy and impact your attention and focus. Avoid activities that require you to be mindful, like driving, riding a bike, or operating machinery, until you understand how the medication influences you.

4. Suicidal thoughts or conducts

Risk factors: Taking other medications for seizures

Clorazepate (Tranxene) can increase the chance of suicidal thoughts and conduct. Monitor for new or worsening depression or any notable changes in mood or behavior while taking clorazepate (Tranxene). Get medical help right away if you detect any of these changes.

5. Injury to Infants

Risk factors: Taking clorazepate (Tranxene) while pregnant

Clorazepate (Tranxene) can cause harm to your baby if you take it while pregnant. Mothers who took this medication late in their pregnancies have given birth to babies who had problems breathing, extreme sleepiness, and inadequate feeding. This condition is called neonatal abstinence syndrome and can be harmful to your baby. If you intend to become pregnant or are currently pregnant, talk with your healthcare professional about secure options to treat your medical condition(s).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take for Clorazepate to start working?

A: Clorazepate starts working within an hour of taking a dose and can take several days to entirely leave your system. Clorazepate works by affecting a neurotransmitter in the brain called GABA, creating an anxiolytic, sedating, and anticonvulsant action

Q: Can Clorazepate be addictive?

A: Yes, clorazepate (Tranxene) can be addictive, especially if taken in excess over a long period of time or misused. It’s a controlled substance (C-IV) because it can lead to dependence and abuse.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Clorazepate?

A: If you miss a dose of Clorazepate, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it’s almost time for your next dose.

Q. Should I take a double dose if I miss a dose of Clorazepate?

A: You should not take a double dose of Clorazepate if you miss a dose. Taking a double dose can increase the danger of experiencing side effects or other difficulties. It is best to follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist for managing missed doses of Clorazepate. If you have any problems or questions about missed doses, it is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider for guidance.

Conclusion

Clorazepate Dipotassium is a critical medicine for treating uneasiness, clutter, seizures, and indications of liquor withdrawal. While it can be highly effective, it’s vital to be aware of potential clorazepate side effects and drug interactions. Continuously take Clorazepate under the direction of a healthcare supplier, follow the endorsed measurement, and address any concerns quickly. Legitimate utilization and customary observation can essentially upgrade the quality of life for those managing these conditions.

If you or a loved one needs back or more data about Clorazepate and its impacts, interface with us at AVISA Recovery. We’re here to offer assistance and direct you through your recuperation journey.

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