Product introduction
Rivotril 0.5mg Tablet is a benzodiazepine medicine used to control seizures and to manage panic disorder. The dose is usually increased gradually, and taking it at the same time each day helps keep its effect steady. It should never be stopped abruptly, because sudden withdrawal can bring on seizures and mood changes; if the medicine needs to be discontinued, your doctor will reduce the dose slowly over time. It works by quietening overactive nerve signals in the brain, which helps prevent both seizures and panic attacks.
Storage: Store below 30°C.
Uses of Rivotril 0.5mg Tablet
- Control of seizures (epilepsy)
- Management of panic disorder
Benefits of Rivotril 0.5mg Tablet
For epilepsy, Rivotril 0.5mg Tablet lowers the frequency and severity of seizures by strengthening the brain's natural calming action and stabilising abnormal electrical activity, which supports better day-to-day functioning and confidence. For panic disorder, it eases the number and intensity of panic attacks by calming nerve signals, reducing sudden surges of fear and the physical discomfort that accompanies them, and making it easier to take part in situations that were previously avoided.
Side effects of Rivotril 0.5mg Tablet
Most side effects do not require medical attention and go away as your body adjusts. Consult your doctor if they persist.
- Drowsiness
- Impaired coordination
- Memory impairment
- Dizziness
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Abnormal behaviour
- Central nervous system (CNS) depression
- Abnormality of voluntary movements
How to use Rivotril 0.5mg Tablet
Take this tablet in the dose and for the duration prescribed by your doctor. Swallow it whole with water without chewing, crushing or breaking it. It may be taken with or without food, but avoid taking it together with grapefruit juice.
How Rivotril 0.5mg Tablet works
Rivotril 0.5mg Tablet is a benzodiazepine that helps calm the brain. It strengthens the action of GABA, a natural calming chemical, which slows down overactive nerve signals and thereby helps prevent seizures and panic attacks.
Substitutes for Rivotril 0.5mg Tablet
No other medicine with the same composition is listed in our catalogue yet. Message us on WhatsApp and our pharmacist will help you find a suitable alternative.
Safety advice
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, as the two together can cause excessive drowsiness.
It is generally not recommended in pregnancy because animal studies point to a risk for the baby. A doctor may still prescribe it when the benefits are judged to outweigh the risks.
It is considered unsafe during breastfeeding, as the medicine may be toxic to the baby.
It can reduce alertness, affect vision or cause sleepiness and dizziness, so do not drive if you experience these effects.
Use with caution in kidney disease, as the dose may need adjusting. It can cause excessive sleepiness in people with end-stage kidney disease.
It is considered unsafe in people with liver disease and should be avoided.
Quick tips
- Take it exactly as prescribed and never change the dose yourself.
- Avoid alcohol and other sedatives, as together they can cause dangerous drowsiness and slowed breathing.
- Watch for mood changes and report any low mood, irritability or suicidal thoughts to your doctor.
- Let your doctor know about all other medicines you are taking.
- It has a high potential for addiction, so use it strictly as prescribed.
Fact box
| Chemical class | 1,4-Benzodiazepines |
|---|---|
| Habit forming | Yes |
| Therapeutic class | NEURO CNS |
| Action class | Benzodiazepines |
Frequently asked questions
Is Rivotril 0.5mg Tablet addictive?
Yes, it can lead to dependence, especially when used for a long time or at higher doses. Because of this, it should only be taken exactly as your doctor prescribes.
Why should I not stop this medicine suddenly?
Stopping it abruptly can cause serious withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, insomnia, sweating, tremors, stomach upset, hallucinations or seizures. Your doctor will taper the dose down gradually.
Can I drive while taking Rivotril 0.5mg Tablet?
It commonly causes drowsiness, dizziness and slowed coordination, so it is safer to avoid driving or using machinery until you are sure how it affects you.
Is it a sleeping pill?
No. Although it can cause drowsiness, it is prescribed to control seizures and panic disorder, not as a sleeping aid. Do not use it for sleep unless a doctor specifically advises it.
Can I take it with other medicines?
Tell your doctor about all the medicines you use, as some can increase drowsiness or otherwise interact. Avoid combining it with alcohol or other sedatives.