Clonazepam inj 1 mg per ml (Rivotril): Discontinuation

Roche is discontinuing its brand of clonazepam inj 1 mg per ml (Rivotril) from 1 October 2021. Global changes in clinical practice drove Roche's decision.

Key dates 

  • 1 October 2021 | Clonazepam inj 1 mg per ml (Rivotril) stock likely depleted
  • 1 October 2021 | Rivotril brand of clonazepam inj 1 mg per ml delisted from the HML (section H)
  • 1 March 2022 | Clonazepam inj 1 mg per ml delisted from the Community Schedule (section B)

Note clonazepam injections will remain on the HML, listed as 'any brand'. 

Prescribers: What you need to know

Prescribers will need to use alternative treatments in the absence of clonazepam injections. 

PHARMAC received advice that other benzodiazepines, such as midazolam or lorazepam, are suitable funded alternatives.

Benzodiazepines in the HML Online(external link)

Benzodiazepines in the Community Schedule(external link)

Benzodiazepines in the NZ Formulary(external link)

Oral clonazepam remains available and fully funded. 

Background

About 119 patients are treated with clonazepam injections each year in the community setting.

The clonazepam injection is a benzodiazepine used in status epilepticus. The injection presentation is generally used in an acute setting.

Who to contact

If you have any questions about this discontinuation, contact Roche: