Clobazam information sheet

Contact details

Pharmacy, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead

Telephone: (02) 7825 2711

Introduction

Clobazam is an anti-convulsant used to control focal and generalised seizures/fits. Sometimes Clobazam is used to stop a cluster of seizures. 

Medication instructions

How to give Clobazam  

  • Clobazam must be prescribed by a doctor. You should never give your child anyone else's medications 
  • If Clobazam is withdrawn it must be done slowly under medical supervision. 
  • Particularly in a child with swallowing and movement problems, Clobazam can cause excessive sedation and interfere with breathing. 

Monitoring and medication levels 

There is no need to do regular blood monitoring with Clobazam. The only monitoring required is a seizure diary to see if there is a decrease in the number of seizures. 

What to do if your child vomits

  • If your child vomits within 30 minutes after having their dose, then repeat the dose.
  • If it is longer than 30 minutes since having the dose you do not need to repeat the dose, but if vomiting or diarrhoea continues, seek medical help.

What to do if your child misses a dose

  • If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered.
  • The next due dose should be taken at the usual time.
  • However, if the missed dose is remembered in close proximity to the next due dose (i.e. within 3 to 4 hours of the next dose), please seek medical advice.
  • Contact your treating GP, epilepsy nurse, paediatrician or neurologist if you are unsure about what to do. 

Medication storage and safety

Storage

Always read the label. Follow the instructions of your doctor and pharmacist.

See more about how to store different brands of Clobazam 

Side effects

All medications have side effects. Not everyone will experience side effects. Below are some of the possible side effects your child may experience: 

Sedation

  • If your child is drowsy or suffering from tiredness please discuss this with your doctor.
  • It is not uncommon in the first 2 weeks of starting the drug to be more tired than usual however if it continues beyond this, you should seek help.
  • If significant drowsiness occurs seek help immediately.

Rash

  • If your child develops a rash, there are important features to look for such as: your child may develop red eyes, red mouth, and/or blisters around the mouth, nose and lips.
  • If your child develops any of these symptoms please call your doctor immediately.
  • The drug may need to be stopped immediately under medical supervision.

Irritability

  • Some children can become more irritable than usual.
  • They can have sudden aggressive outbursts, hyperactivity, insomnia (inability to sleep), or depression.
  • These latter side effects are only seen occasionally.

Drooling

  • Your child may develop an increase in saliva and have some drooling. If this occurs and is a concern, please let your doctor know.

Other possible side effects

  • Constipation
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dizziness
  • Unsteadiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Hyperexcitability

Pregnancy and contraception 

If a pregnancy is planned, a discussion with your neurologist is recommended. For further information, refer to the reproductive health section.

The information provided in this resource is limited and does not replace the need for a medical consultation. It is very important you speak to your doctor about all aspects of your medication including side effects when medication is first prescribed. Report any concerns to your doctor promptly. 

Medication scripts

Please ask your child’s doctor at a follow up appointment for another medication script if required.

If this is a regular medicine for your child, the GP should be your first point of call for repeat prescriptions. 
 

Overdose information

In the case of an overdose or poisoning, call the NSW Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 (24 hour service).