Rivotril® Clonazepam 2 mg

Brand Name: Rivotril®

Active Ingredient: Clonazepam

Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine used to treat seizure disorders (epilepsy) and panic disorders. It works by enhancing the calming effects of GABA, a neurotransmitter in the brain, which helps reduce abnormal brain activity and controls seizures. It also provides relief from anxiety and panic symptoms.

Company and Country of Origin:

Manufactured by Roche and distributed in Thailand and Spain.

Mechanism of Action

Clonazepam enhances the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. This results in sedative, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, and muscle-relaxing effects.

Indications

**Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders (including absence seizures, myoclonic seizures, and akinetic seizures)

**Panic Disorder and Anxiety Disorders

**Restless Legs Syndrome and REM Sleep Behavior Disorder

**Adjunctive treatment in schizophrenia and manic disorders

Warnings and Side Effects

🔸Common Side Effects:

**Drowsiness

**Dizziness

**Impaired motor coordination

**Memory disturbances

🔸Serious Side Effects:

**Depression

**Hallucinations

**Aggressive behavior

**Suicidal ideation

Historical Background

Clonazepam was developed by Leo Sternbach and his research team at Hoffmann-La Roche during the early 1960s. It was approved by the U.S. FDA in 1975 for the treatment of seizure disorders and panic disorder.

Abuse Potential and Misuse

Clonazepam has a high potential for abuse, especially when used in conjunction with alcohol, opioids, or other central nervous system depressants. Misuse can result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, or death.

Additional Considerations

**Pregnancy: Not recommended due to potential teratogenic effects

**Elderly Patients: Use with caution due to increased sensitivity and risk of falls

**Pediatric Use: Only under strict medical supervision