Benzodiazepine
Clonazepam with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Clonazepam (Clonazepam). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Clonazepam at 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg, but a few classes do, and a small number of combinations are best avoided.
Common antibiotic interactions
Macrolides (clarithromycin, erythromycin) and certain antifungals can inhibit hepatic metabolism (CYP3A4) and raise plasma levels of many medications including some Benzodiazepine agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Clonazepam at 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Clonazepam, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Clonazepam is co-administered. Adjusted 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Clonazepam during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Clonazepam is metabolised and may need a temporary 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Clonazepam regimen.
Will antibiotics make Clonazepam stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Clonazepam efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Clonazepam levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
Products containing Clonazepam
More on Clonazepam
- With alcoholClonazepam and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Clonazepam be taken with food?
- Side effectsClonazepam side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideClonazepam dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Clonazepam start working?
- DurationHow long does Clonazepam last?
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