BenzodiazepinePrescription only
Clonazepam
Tablet
Quick Summary
Clonazepam calms the brain by boosting the effect of GABA, a calming chemical messenger.
Epilepsy
Panic disorder
Medical Uses
Epilepsy: Some seizure types.
Panic disorder: Short-term.
How it's taken
Take only as prescribed, for the shortest time possible.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you and how long to take it.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you. Follow their instructions and the label.
Common Side Effects
Drowsiness
Common.
Poor memory
And concentration.
Unsteadiness
Risk of falls.
Interactions
Alcohol, opioids and sleeping pills
Dangerous drowsiness.
Some antifungals and HIV medicines
Raise levels.
Critical Warnings
Dependence
Black Box Warning: Can be habit-forming; usually only for short periods.
Drowsiness
Don't drive or use machines if it makes you sleepy, and avoid alcohol.
With opioids or alcohol
Black Box Warning: Can dangerously slow breathing.
Don't stop suddenly
Your doctor will help you reduce it slowly.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Clonazepam: drug information(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Clonazepam: a medicine to treat seizures and panic disorder(opens in a new tab) · NHS