Podcast
Questions and Answers
What class of drugs does Clonazepam belong to?
What class of drugs does Clonazepam belong to?
- Benzodiazepines (correct)
- Antidepressants
- Anticonvulsants (correct)
- Opioid analgesics
What is the primary action of Clonazepam?
What is the primary action of Clonazepam?
Prevention of seizures and decreased manifestations of panic disorder.
List two uses of Clonazepam.
List two uses of Clonazepam.
Treat panic attacks and epilepsy.
Clonazepam can cause __________ as a side effect.
Clonazepam can cause __________ as a side effect.
Which of the following are side effects of Clonazepam? (Select all that apply)
Which of the following are side effects of Clonazepam? (Select all that apply)
Which substances should be avoided when taking Clonazepam?
Which substances should be avoided when taking Clonazepam?
What should be assessed before administering Clonazepam?
What should be assessed before administering Clonazepam?
Match the following with their corresponding definition:
Match the following with their corresponding definition:
Give an example of a brand name for Clonazepam.
Give an example of a brand name for Clonazepam.
What is an important nursing consideration when administering Clonazepam?
What is an important nursing consideration when administering Clonazepam?
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Study Notes
Clonazepam Drug Overview
- Classified as an anticonvulsant within the benzodiazepine drug class.
- Primarily used for prevention of seizures and treating panic disorders.
Mechanism of Action
- Calms the brain and nerves, reducing anxiety and seizure activity.
- Works by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter that inhibits brain activity.
Medical Uses
- Effective in treating panic attacks and managing epilepsy symptoms.
Common Side Effects
- Drowsiness, dizziness, and cognitive issues such as memory problems.
- Physical effects include muscle weakness, loss of balance, and slurred speech.
- Gastrointestinal symptoms may occur: nausea, constipation, and loss of appetite.
- Other potential side effects include blurred vision, headaches, dry mouth, and nasal congestion.
Drug Interactions
- Caution advised with alcohol, antidepressants, antihistamines, other benzodiazepines, and opioid analgesics due to increased risk of CNS depression.
- May interact with medications like cimetidine, disulfiram, fluoxetine, and others.
Nursing Considerations
- Regular assessment of anxiety levels and mental status recommended.
- Monitor for drowsiness, unsteadiness, and clumsiness.
- Administer with food to reduce gastric irritation, and the largest dose should be given at bedtime to avoid daytime sedation.
- Tablets can be crushed for easier swallowing if needed.
Brand Names
- Commonly available as Clonapam, KlonoPIN, and Rivotril.
Patient Communication
- Explain the purpose and use of Clonazepam, focusing on its calming effects.
- Inform patients about potential side effects and the importance of reporting them.
- Advise against alcohol consumption and check for concurrent medications to avoid harmful interactions.
- Emphasize monitoring mood and fatigue levels during therapy.
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