Medicine Information

Epiclon

Name: Epiclon
Brand: Epiclon
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet0.5 mgAnxiolytics, Sedatives & Hypnotics; AnticonvulsantsATC: N03AE01

Generic Name

Clonazepam 0.5 mg Tablet

Manufacturer

Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

Loading images...

Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
epiclon 05 mg tablet	৳ 8.00	৳ 80.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Epiclon 0.5 mg Tablet is a benzodiazepine derivative primarily used as an anticonvulsant and anxiolytic. It works by enhancing the effect of a certain natural chemical (GABA) in the body.

Uses & Indications

Epilepsy (Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, absence seizures, myoclonic seizures)

Panic disorder with or without agoraphobia

Restless legs syndrome (off-label)

Acute mania (adjunctive therapy)

Dosage

Adults

Initial 0.25-0.5 mg orally, 2-3 times daily; gradually increased. Max 20 mg/day for epilepsy, 4 mg/day for panic disorder.

Elderly

Lower initial dose (e.g., 0.25 mg once daily) and slower titration to minimize side effects.

Renal_impairment

No specific dosage adjustment usually needed, but caution advised.

How to Take

Oral administration. Can be taken with or without food. Swallow whole with water.

Mechanism of Action

Clonazepam potentiates the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) by binding to benzodiazepine receptors on the GABA-A receptor complex, leading to increased chloride ion influx and hyperpolarization of the neuron. This results in decreased neuronal excitability.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Anticonvulsant effect: 20-60 minutes; Anxiolytic effect: 30-60 minutes.

Excretion

Primarily via urine as metabolites, with only a small fraction excreted unchanged.

Half life

18-50 hours (mean 30-40 hours).

Absorption

Rapid and complete absorption after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are reached in 1-4 hours.

Metabolism

Primarily in the liver by nitroreduction to 7-aminoclonazepam and by N-acetylation to 7-acetamidoclonazepam. Also undergoes hydroxylation.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Acute narrow-angle glaucoma
Severe respiratory insufficiency
Severe hepatic impairment
Myasthenia gravis
Sleep apnea

Drug Interactions

Opioids

Increased risk of sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death.

Antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole)

May increase clonazepam levels.

Alcohol and other CNS depressants

Enhanced sedative effects, respiratory depression.

Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine)

May alter clonazepam levels or increase side effects.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms include somnolence, confusion, diminished reflexes, coma. Management involves supportive care, maintaining airway, vital sign monitoring. Flumazenil may be used to reverse benzodiazepine effects, but caution advised due to seizure risk.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category D. May cause fetal harm. Not recommended during breastfeeding as it passes into breast milk and may cause sedation in the infant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets per blister30 tablets per box

Shelf Life

24-36 months from manufacturing date.

Availability

Pharmacies, Hospitals

Approval Status

Approved by DGDA (Bangladesh)

Patent Status

Off-patent, generic available

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Extensive clinical trials have established clonazepam's efficacy and safety for indicated conditions, demonstrating its role in managing epilepsy and panic disorder.

Lab Monitoring

Liver function tests (periodically)
Complete blood count (periodically, especially with long-term use)

Doctor Notes

Counsel patients on the risks of dependence and withdrawal.
Monitor for signs of respiratory depression, especially with concomitant opioid use.
Advise patients against abrupt discontinuation.

Patient Guidelines

Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly as it may cause withdrawal symptoms.
Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.
Report any unusual mood changes or thoughts of self-harm to your doctor immediately.
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.

Missed Dose Advice

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose.