Epitril 0.5mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Novartis India Ltd
Salt Composition
Clonazepam (0.5mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Epitril 0.5mg Tablet is a prescription medicine used to treat epilepsy (seizures) and anxiety disorder. It helps to decrease the abnormal and excessive activity of the nerve cells and calms the brain.
Dosage Form
Tablet
Introduction
Epitril 0.5mg Tablet may be taken with or without food. However, take it at the same time each day as this helps to maintain a consistent level of medicine in the body. Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor as it has a high potential of habit-forming. If you have missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember it and finish the full course of treatment even if you feel better. You should not stop this medicine suddenly without talking to your doctor as it may increase the seizure frequency and can cause nausea, anxiety, flu-like symptoms, and muscle pain.
Directions for Use
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Epitril 0.5mg Tablet may be taken with or without food but it is better to take it at a fixed time.
Safety Information
Side Effects
No common side effects listed.
Alcohol Warning
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Epitril 0.5mg Tablet.
Breastfeeding Warning
Epitril 0.5mg Tablet is safe to use during breastfeeding. Human studies suggest that the drug does not pass into the breastmilk in a significant amount and is not harmful to the baby.
Pregnancy Warning
Epitril 0.5mg Tablet is unsafe to use during pregnancy as there is definite evidence of risk to the developing baby. However, the doctor may rarely prescribe it in some life-threatening situations if the benefits are more than the potential risks. Please consult your doctor.
Interacting Medicines
Abacavir Adefovir Amisulpride Amitriptyline
How it works
Epitril 0.5mg Tablet is a benzodiazepine. It works by increasing the action of a chemical messenger (GABA) which suppresses the abnormal and excessive activity of the nerve cells in the brain.
Quick Tips
The addiction / habit-forming potential of this medicine is very high. Take it only as per the dose and duration advised by your doctor It may cause dizziness. Do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how this medicine affects you. Avoid consuming alcohol as it may increase dizziness and drowsiness. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding. Inform your doctor if you experience worsen anxiety, depression, angry, or violent behavior and mania while taking this medicine. Do not stop taking medication suddenly without talking to your doctor as that may lead to nausea, anxiety, agitation, flu-like symptoms, sweating, tremor, and confusion.
Frequently asked questions
Is Epitril 0.5mg Tablet a sleeping pill?
Epitril 0.5mg Tablet is a benzodiazepine medication prescribed to treat anxiety, stop seizures (fits), or relax tense muscles. It may also help relieve difficulty sleeping (insomnia) and is typically prescribed for a short period of time. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment.
Does Epitril 0.5mg Tablet cause sleepiness? If yes, then should I stop driving while taking Epitril 0.5mg Tablet?
Yes, Epitril 0.5mg Tablet can cause drowsiness in many people. It may also affect your memory and muscle function, potentially impacting your ability to drive. If you experience significant drowsiness or sleepiness after taking this medicine, avoid driving.
For how long should I take Epitril 0.5mg Tablet?
Treatment with Epitril 0.5mg Tablet is generally short-term and as short as possible. Your doctor will evaluate you after four weeks of treatment to assess if further treatment is needed, particularly if your symptoms have not improved. They may gradually decrease your dose to prevent withdrawal effects.
Is it safe to take Epitril 0.5mg Tablet and alcohol together?
No, it is not recommended to combine Alcohol with Epitril 0.5mg Tablet because this can lead to breathing problems, sleepiness, and heart problems. Combining these substances may also cause a feeling of lightheadedness or even make it difficult to wake up.
Is Epitril 0.5mg Tablet addictive?
People taking Epitril 0.5mg Tablet in high doses or for prolonged periods can become dependent on it, and individuals with a history of alcohol abuse or drug addiction are more susceptible to developing dependence. Therefore, Epitril 0.5mg Tablet should be taken for the shortest possible time and at the lowest effective dosage.
Can I stop taking Epitril 0.5mg Tablet if I start feeling better?
No, do not discontinue Epitril 0.5mg Tablet abruptly without consulting your doctor. Stopping it suddenly may trigger withdrawal effects such as depression, nervousness, difficulty sleeping, irritability, sweating, upset stomach or diarrhea. Your doctor will advise you on the best course of action to manage any potential side effects.
Are there any foods we need to avoid while taking Epitril 0.5mg Tablet?
It is advisable to avoid consuming caffeine-containing foods like tea, coffee, and chocolates while on Epitril 0.5mg Tablet as caffeine can stimulate your brain. Combining this with Epitril 0.5mg Tablet might further exacerbate the calming effect of the medicine.
