Clonazepam: new uses and potential problems.

Clonazepam is a high-potency benzodiazepine labeled for use as an anticonvulsant. Increasingly, clonazepam has been used in the treatment of a variety of psychiatric disorders. The authors discuss its potential clinical applications, including (1) use as an adjunct to neuroleptics for treating psychosis, (2) management of specific psychotropic side effects, (3) alternative treatment for certain pain syndromes, and (4) a primary treatment for severe agitation, atypical psychosis, and anxiety disorders. Apparent treatment-emergent side effects including depression, disinhibition, and sexual dysfunction are also discussed.