What is the correct way to take a disintegrating tablet of clonazepam (Klonopin), specifically how to dissolve it?

Proper Administration of Clonazepam Disintegrating Tablets

Clonazepam disintegrating tablets should be placed on the tongue to dissolve and then swallowed with saliva, not dissolved under the tongue. 1

Administration Instructions

Orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs) of clonazepam are designed to disintegrate quickly in the mouth without requiring additional water. The correct administration involves:

1. Place the tablet on the tongue
2. Allow it to disintegrate completely (typically within seconds)
3. Swallow the resulting saliva containing the dissolved medication
4. No additional water is required, though it can be taken if desired

Why This Method Is Correct

The FDA-approved labeling for clonazepam orally disintegrating tablets specifically indicates this route of administration 1. Sublingual administration (dissolving under the tongue) is not the recommended method for clonazepam ODTs as:

• Sublingual administration of benzodiazepine tablets offers no clinical advantage over conventional oral administration 2
• Absorption is unpredictable when administered sublingually 2
• The formulation of orally disintegrating tablets is specifically designed to disintegrate on the tongue, not under it 3

Benefits of Orally Disintegrating Tablets

Orally disintegrating tablets of clonazepam provide several advantages:

• Rapid disintegration within seconds in the oral cavity 4, 3
• Improved patient compliance, especially for those who have difficulty swallowing conventional tablets 3
• Convenient for patients without access to water 3
• May have faster onset of action compared to conventional tablets 3

Important Considerations

When taking clonazepam disintegrating tablets:

• Handle with dry hands as the tablets are fragile 1
• Do not push the tablet through the foil of the blister pack; instead, peel back the foil to remove the tablet 1
• The tablet will disintegrate quickly, usually within 10-30 seconds 4
• Be aware that clonazepam has a biological half-life of 22-32 hours 5
• Common side effects include drowsiness, ataxia, and behavioral changes 5

Cautions

• Avoid alcohol while taking clonazepam as it may potentiate CNS-depressant effects 1
• Be cautious about operating machinery or driving as benzodiazepines can impair judgment and motor skills 1
• Do not abruptly discontinue clonazepam as gradual withdrawal is essential to prevent withdrawal symptoms 1

By following these administration instructions, you can ensure optimal therapeutic benefit from clonazepam disintegrating tablets while minimizing potential risks.