Clobazam is a benzodiazepine used as adjunct treatment in seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. It can be found under the brand names Onfi and Sympazan. Clobazam acts on the GABAA receptor to increase GABAnergic transmission, particularly chloride conductance in neurons. This causes neuronal hyperpolarization, resulting in an increase in the action potential threshold and reducing neuron firing frequency. Consequently, the general neuronal activity of the central nervous system is depressed; therefore, clobazam can be used to treat diseases caused by excessive excitatory action potentials. The exact mechanism of action for clobazam, a 1,5-benzodiazepine, is not fully understood but is thought to involve the potentiation of GABAergic neurotransmission resulting from binding at the benzodiazepine site of the GABAA receptor. Specifically, clobazam binds to the interface of the α2 and γ2-subunit of the GABAA receptor. It has a great affinity for the α2 subunit than the α1 subunit compared to other 1,4‐benzodiazepines. Binding of clobazam to the GABAA receptor causes chloride channels to open, resulting in an influx of chloride and thus hyperpolarization of neurons. Some side effects of using clobazam may include tiredness, drooling, and vomiting.

Clobazam Pathway References