Clonazepam (
Klonopin®) is a prescription medicine approved for treating
panic disorder and some types of epileptic
seizures. As with any medication, it is possible to develop side effects or problems while taking it.
In clinical studies, the most common side effects that were reported with clonazepam included:
- Drowsiness -- in up to 50 percent of people
- Coordination problems -- up to 30 percent
- Behavior problems -- up to 25 percent
- Dizziness -- up to 12 percent
- Upper respiratory tract infections (such as the common cold) -- up to 10 percent.
Most side effects of clonazepam are mild and do not require medical attention in most cases. However, some clonazepam problems (while occurring infrequently) are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. These include, but are not limited to:
- Depression (or worsening of existing depression)
- Problems with balance, especially frequent falls (which are especially dangerous in the elderly)
- Suicidal thoughts
- Difficulty breathing
- Memory problems
- Anxiety, excitation, or agitation
- Hostility, aggression, or rage
- Insomnia
- Hallucinations
- Signs of an allergic reaction, including an unexplained rash, hives, itching, and unexplained swelling.
(Click Clonazepam Side Effects for a more complete list of side effects that may occur, including other common problems as well as rare but possible side effects.)
