Epitra Drops

Overview

Epitra Drops contains Clonazepam 2.5 mg/ml as an oral drop solution, manufactured by Square Pharmaceuticals PLC. The drops formulation allows precise low-dose titration, making it particularly useful for infants, young children, and patients who cannot swallow tablets. It provides the same anticonvulsant, anxiolytic, and sedative properties as the tablet form via enhanced dose-flexibility.

Dosage and Administration

Infants and children: starting dose approximately 0.01–0.03 mg/kg/day in 2–3 divided doses, increasing gradually. Adults: equivalent to tablet dosing, with 0.5 mg = approximately 10 drops of 2.5 mg/ml solution. All doses strictly under physician guidance.

Interaction

Same as tablet form: additive CNS depression with alcohol, opioids, and other CNS depressants. Enzyme inducers (phenytoin, carbamazepine, rifampicin) reduce levels.

Contraindications

Same contraindications as tablets: narrow-angle glaucoma, severe hepatic impairment, myasthenia gravis, sleep apnoea, and known hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines.

Side Effects

Sedation, drooling, and hypotonia in infants. Cognitive and psychomotor impairment. Paradoxical excitation. Tolerance and dependence with prolonged use.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Avoid in pregnancy where possible — risk of neonatal withdrawal and respiratory depression. Use only under close physician supervision if essential during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

Use the calibrated dropper provided. Never double a missed dose. Store out of reach of children — accidental ingestion can cause severe respiratory depression. Do not stop abruptly.

Storage Conditions

Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place, protected from light. Keep out of the reach of children.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are drops preferred over tablets in infants?
The liquid form allows extremely small dose increments and precise weight-based dosing, which is essential in infants where very low initial doses (e.g. 0.01 mg/kg) are required and cannot be achieved by splitting tablets accurately.

Is the dose of Clonazepam drops the same as tablets?
No — drops are concentrated (2.5 mg/ml); a specific number of drops corresponds to a tablet dose (e.g. 10 drops ≈ 0.5 mg); the physician should specify both dose and drop count to avoid errors.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Please consult a registered physician before taking any medication.