Medication Use in Special Populations

Elderly Patients

Elderly patients should be treated with caution due to increased risk of cognitive decline, confusion, and falls, as recommended by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 1

This medication is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant, according to the American Diabetes Association 2

This medication may cause sedation, confusion, and cognitive impairment, as reported by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 1
Clonazepam may worsen sleep apnea, especially in doses of 0.5 to 1.0 mg, and should be used with caution in patients with sleep apnea, as suggested by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine 3
Clonazepam should be used with caution in patients with neurodegenerative disorders due to the increased risk of confusion and falls, as recommended by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine 3
Combination with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) should be avoided, as recommended by the American Diabetes Association 4, 5
Clonazepam can cause significant sedation, sexual dysfunction (including impotence), and increase the risk of falls due to morning motor incoordination, as noted by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine 3
Clonazepam may lead to confusion, especially in older adults, and significant cognitive and memory impairment in some patients, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine 3
A gradual reduction of the clonazepam dose is recommended to minimize discontinuation symptoms, especially after long-term use, as suggested by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine 3