Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. If too much of this medicine is taken for a long time, it may become habit-forming (causing mental or physical dependence).

This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.

This medicine may be used with other seizure medicines. Keep using all of your seizure medicines unless your doctor tells you to stop.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

  • For oral dosage form (tablets):
    • For anxiety:
      • Adults—30 milligrams (mg) per day, taken in divided doses. Your doctor may adjust your dose if needed.
      • Older adults—At first, 7.5 to 15 mg per day, taken at bedtime or in divided doses. Your doctor may increase your dose if needed.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    • For symptoms of alcohol withdrawal:
      • Adults—At first, 30 milligrams (mg), followed by 30 to 60 mg in divided doses. Your doctor will set up a schedule that will gradually adjust your dose until your symptoms improve. The dose is usually not more than 90 mg per day.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    • For partial seizures:
      • Adults and children 13 years of age and older—At first, 7.5 milligrams (mg) 3 times a day. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 90 mg per day.
      • Children 9 to 12 years of age—The starting dose is up to 7.5 mg 2 times a day. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 60 mg per day.
      • Children up to 9 years of age—Use is not recommended.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.