Rivotril

What is it?

An antieonvulsant and benzodiazepine, available as quarter- scored tablets in 2 strengths; beige, containing 0.5mg of clonazepam and white containing 2mg. All are marked ROCHE and with tablet strength. Also, RIVOTRIL INJECTION, containing 1mg of clonazepam in solvent in ampoules with iml diluent. Usedfor: tablets, epilepsy; injection, status epilepticus (continual seizures producing brain damage unless halted).

Dosage

Adults, tablets, start with maximum initial daily dose of 1mg increasing to maintenance of 4 to 8mg eachday. Elderly, 0.5mg daily maximum initially. Children: aged 5 to 12 years, 0.5mg maximum each day initially, rising to maintenance of 3 to 6mg each day; aged 1 to 5 years, 0.25mg, and then 1 to 3mg maintenance (same criteria); aged up to 1 year, 0.25mg and then 0.5 to 1mg maintenance (same criteria). Gradually increase all to maintenance dose. Injection, adults, 1mg by slow intravenous injection. Children, 0.5mg by same means. Also, consult manufacturer's literature.

Special Care

Chronic lung insufficiency, chronic liver or kidney disease, the elderly, pregnant, during labour or lactation. Judgement and dexterity may be affected, long-term use is to be avoided. To be withdrawn gradually.

Special Care

Chronic lung insufficiency, chronic liver or kidney disease, depression, glaucoma (acute, narrow angle), bereavement. Drug can affect dexterity and judgement. Long-term use is to be avoided and drug should be withdrawn gradually.

Avoid Use

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, labour, elderly persons, acute lung insufficiency, depression of respiration (except in cases of acute muscle spasms), sleep apnoea, severe liver insufficiency, myasthenia gravis (a severe autoimmune disorder). Also, when treating anxiety, obsessional states or chronic psychosis.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Alcohol and otherCNS depressants, anticonvulsants.

Known Side Effects

Vertigo, gastrointestinal upsets, confusion, ataxia, drowsiness, light-headedness, hypotension, disturbance of vision, skin rashes. Also, urine retention, changes in libido. Dependence a potential problem.

Manufacturer

Roche.