Urbanol, also known by its generic name clobazam, is a benzodiazepine medication. It is frequently prescribed by doctors to treat a variety of conditions, most notably epilepsy and anxiety disorders.
Since it has a different chemical make-up than other benzodiazepines, urbanol has a softer sedative effect. It is a good option for some patients because of this feature. It can be used to treat intermittent seizure issues or as a monotherapy for epilepsy.
Depending on regional drug approvals and unique factors taken into account by medical professionals, the specific medical applications of Clobazam prescriptions may differ from one nation to the next.
Common uses and benefits of Urbanol
- Epilepsy Management: Urbanol is most frequently used to treat epilepsy, specifically to control specific types of seizures like Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. It lessens the frequency and severity of seizures by calming abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
- Muscle Spasms: Urbanol can be used to treat neurological conditions like cerebral palsy and certain neurological disorders that cause muscle spasms.
- Anxiety Disorders: Additionally, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is one of the anxiety disorders for which urbanol is prescribed. By fostering a calming effect on the central nervous system, it assists in reducing the signs and symptoms of anxiety.
Urbanol Interactions / How to use
Depending on the patient’s circumstances, the medical condition being treated, and the doctor’s recommendations, the dosage of Urbanol may change. The typical starting and maintenance doses are as follows:
Epilepsy:
- Adults and adolescents (ages 13 and older): Usually begin with 20 to 30 mg per day, divided into two to three doses. The dose may increase by 5 to 10 mg per week if necessary, with a maximum of 60 mg per day.
- Children (ages 2 to 12): Generally start with 5 to 10 mg per day, divided into two to three doses. The dose may increase by 5 mg per week if needed, with a maximum of 20 mg per day.
Anxiety disorders:
- Adults: The typical starting dose is 10 mg per day, divided into two doses. It may be adjusted based on individual response and tolerability, but usually does not exceed 30 mg per day.
It’s important to remember that these are general guidelines, and individual dosing may vary. A healthcare professional should determine the appropriate dosage based on a comprehensive evaluation of your medical history, condition, and response to treatment.
Always follow your doctor’s instructions and avoid adjusting the dosage on your own without consulting them.
Common side effects
Urbanol may have a number of adverse effects. It’s important to realize that not all side effects are disclosed in the leaflet that comes with the medication, so it’s best to speak with a doctor if your general health declines while you’re taking Urbanol. Some severe side effects, however, necessitate prompt medical attention.
Allergic reactions:
- Fainting.
- Rash or itching.
- Swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, face, lips, mouth, or throat, leading to difficulty swallowing or breathing.
Urbanol should not be taken if any of these serious side effects appear; instead, you should get immediate medical help.
Other serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include:
- Suicidal feelings.
- Irritability or anxiety.
- Delusions (believing things that are not true) or hallucinations (sensing things that are not there).
- Restlessness, difficulty sleeping, or nightmares.
These side effects are more likely to occur in elderly individuals and children.
Additionally, there are common side effects that may not be as severe but still require attention:
- Loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting.
- Dry mouth and constipation.
- Shaking fingers.
- Sleepiness or dizziness.
Other less common side effects may include:
- Liver problems.
- Skin rashes or hives.
- Weight gain.
- Problems with walking or other movements.
- Difficulty staying awake or alert.
- Slowed reactions.
- Aggression.
- Mood depression.
- Dependency on Urbanol (physical or mental dependence).
- Eye problems such as double vision.
- Increased risk of falling in the elderly.
- Blood dyscrasias (abnormal bleeding or bruising, nosebleeds, pale appearance, fever, severe chills, sore throat, or mouth ulcers).
- Memory loss or confusion.
- Headaches.
- Muscle weakness.
- Loss of sexual drive.
- Breathing problems.
- Rare severe skin conditions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
It is important to let your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider know if you experience any side effects that are not listed in the leaflet. They can offer advice and guarantee your safety while taking Urbanol.
Interactions with other drugs
There is a chance that urbanol will interact with a wide range of drugs, substances, and health issues. It’s important to let your doctor or pharmacist know about all of your current medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, herbal supplements, and recreational drugs.
These prominent Urbanol drug interactions are listed below:
- CYP2C19 and CYP3A4 Inducers and Inhibitors: Urbanol is metabolized by the liver enzymes CYP2C19 and CYP3A4. Drugs that induce or inhibit these enzymes can impact the metabolism and blood levels of Urbanol. Examples include rifampicin, cimetidine, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, omeprazole, and certain antifungal medications. Dose adjustments may be required when Urbanol is used concomitantly with these drugs.
- Grapefruit Juice: Grapefruit juice can inhibit the activity of CYP3A4 enzymes, which may increase the blood levels of Urbanol. It is generally advised to avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Urbanol.
- Renal Impairment: Urbanol is eliminated from the body through the kidneys. In individuals with impaired renal function, the clearance of Urbanol may be reduced, leading to higher blood levels. Dose adjustments may be necessary in patients with renal impairment.
- Central Nervous System Depressants: Urbanol can intensify the sedative effects of other central nervous system depressants, such as alcohol, opioids (e.g., codeine, morphine), barbiturates, sedatives, and other benzodiazepines. Combining these substances can increase the risk of excessive sedation, respiratory depression, and even coma. It is essential to use these substances cautiously and under medical supervision.
- Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs): Urbanol may interact with other AEDs, such as phenytoin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine, and valproate. These interactions can affect the blood levels and effectiveness of both Urbanol and the other AEDs. Dose adjustments may be necessary to maintain therapeutic levels.
- Respiratory Conditions: Urbanol may cause respiratory depression, especially when combined with other medications that can suppress breathing. Use caution when taking Urbanol if you have a history of respiratory conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or sleep apnea.
Please be aware that this is not an exhaustive list of drug interactions. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a comprehensive review of your medications and potential interactions before starting or stopping any medication.
Can You Mix Urbanol (Clobazam) and Alcohol?
Can I drink alcohol while using Urbanol? The short answer is no.
Urbanol and alcohol are both central nervous system depressants. When taken in higher doses, they can cause similar effects such as drowsiness, slurred speech, and impaired motor coordination.
When combined with alcohol, the depressant effects of both substances are greatly magnified. This significantly increases the risks of overdose or accidents as alcohol intensifies almost all of Urbanol’s side effects. It’s crucial to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Urbanol to ensure your safety and prevent potential harm.
