Administration of clonazepam in the treatment of TMD and associated myofascial pain: a double-blind pilot study.

Author(s): Harkins S, Linford J, Cohen J, Kramer T, Cueva L

Affiliation(s): College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson.

Publication date & source: 1991-06, J Craniomandib Disord., 5(3):179-86.

Publication type: Clinical Trial; Randomized Controlled Trial

A double-blind pilot study was undertaken to test the administration of low doses of the long-acting benzodiazepine drug clonazepam in the management of chronic intractable temporomandibular disorder/myofascial pain patients who were not responsive to occlusal splint, behavioral, and physical therapy. Clonazepam was selected for its long duration and its cholinergic/GABA-ergic/serotonergic, anxiolytic, muscle relaxant, and sedative properties. Clonazepam appears to be effective when compared to a placebo. However, caution must be observed with long-term administration of clonazepam because of potential side effects such as depression and liver dysfunction. Indiscriminate administration of clonazepam may be harmful to the patient.