Clorazepate Dipotassium

What is clorazepate dipotassium?

Clorazepate dipotassium (brand names: Tranxene-SD®, Gen-Xene®) is a benzodiazepine used to treat behavior disorders and seizures. Anxiety disorders and phobias are most often treated with this medication.

It is used off label (extra label) to treat seizures and behavior disorders in dogs and cats. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How is clorazepate dipotassium given?

• Clorazepate dipotassium is given by mouth in the form of a tablet. It may also be compounded into a liquid form.
• Measure liquid forms carefully.
• It may be given with or without food; however, if vomiting occurs when dosed on an empty stomach, give future doses with food.
• When using for phobias or other triggers, give this medication an hour before the triggering event, if possible.
• When using for seizures, give this medication around the same time each day.
• Do not leave your pet unattended the first time this medication is given.
• When using clorazepate dipotassium long-term, do not stop abruptly, as it can cause seizures.

This medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours, and improvement in clinical signs should follow.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then wait the recommended time as prescribed by your veterinarian for the next dose. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

Side effects of clorazepate dipotassium may include:

• Sleepiness and incoordination (mild and temporary)
• Increased appetite
• Drooling
• Unusual behaviors
• Slow learning
• Sudden liver damage
• Seizures possible if this medication is used long-term and then stopped abruptly

Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving clorazepate dipotassium and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Confusion
• Coma
• Lack of appetite
• Continued vomiting
• Yellowing of the skin, eyes, and gums
• Severe weakness

This moderate-acting medication should stop working in a few days, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE clorazepate dipotassium in pets that:

• Are allergic to it or other benzodiazepines
• Have significant liver disease
• Are nursing (use a milk replacer)

USE WITH EXTREME CAUTION in pets that:

• Are aggressive
• Are pregnant
• Are older or debilitated
• Have glaucoma
• Have general liver disease or kidney disease

When using clorazepate dipotassium long-term, do not stop abruptly, as it can cause seizures.

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

The following medications should be used with caution when given with clorazepate dipotassium:

• Antacids
• Antihypertensive agents
• Central nervous system depressant agents
• Fluoxetine
• Hepatic enzyme inducers or inhibitors
• Nondepolarizing neuromuscular blockers
• Theophylline/aminophylline
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Yohimbine

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• No specific monitoring is needed while your pet is taking this medication.
• Your veterinarian may monitor your pet to be sure that the medication is working.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any side effects occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store clorazepate dipotassium?

• Store this medication at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
• Store in a dry place, protected from moisture and direct sunlight.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.