Klonopin, or clonazepam, is a psychoactive drug in the benzodiazepine class approved by the FDA to treat panic disorders and certain types of seizure disorders. Klonopin is taken orally in tablet form and works by regulating abnormal electrical activity in the brain. This calming effect can treat symptoms of anxiety, prevent panic attacks, and control convulsions from seizures.
Common side effects of Klonopin include:
- physical and mental fatigue
- lack of coordination
- memory loss
- muscle or joint pain
- blurred vision
- changes in libido
Benzodiazepines are one of the most popular classes of psychoactive drugs in the United States. According to a study published in the National Health Statistics Reports, “the rate of visits at which benzodiazepines were prescribed was 27 annual visits per 100 adults.” These rates were higher for women than men, and they were primarily prescribed to treat mental disorders.
Out of the top 200 drugs sold in the U.S. in 2018, Klonopin ranked number 38.
Klonopin Abuse and Dependence
Klonopin is among the most addictive benzodiazepines because of its rapid onset and long half-life. The effects can be felt in under an hour depending on the dosage, and the half-life is 18 and 39 hours. Because its effects occur so quickly, abuse of the drug for its intoxicating effects is common. In high doses, Klonopin depresses the central nervous system and causes users to feel a rush of euphoria, relaxation, and blurred vision.
Signs of Klonopin abuse include:
- Slurred speech
- Mood changes
- Lack of coordination
- Drowsiness or weakness
- Depressed mood or behavior
- Reduced attention span
A common misconception is that Klonopin and other benzodiazepines are not dangerous or pose a threat of addiction because they are prescription medications, but this is far from the truth. Klonopin is not prescribed for extended periods due to its addiction potential and physical dependence. Even if an individual is prescribed Klonopin for medical purposes, they can still develop an addiction to it.
Addiction to Klonopin can cause significant damage to an individual’s physical and psychological health as well as their family relations and social lives. Addiction can become all-encompassing, affecting an individual’s performance at work or school, relationships, and well-being.
Effects of Klonopin addiction include but are not limited to:
- Hallucinations and paranoia
- Memory problems
A person develops a physical dependence on Klonopin when they no longer feel like they can function without being under the influence of the drug. The first sign of physical dependence is the development of increased tolerance or needing more of the drug to achieve the same high. Once Klonopin use is discontinued, withdrawal symptoms may occur.
Overdose and Withdrawal
Abusing Klonopin can lead to overdose when too much of a drug is taken, and the body responds in ways that are dangerous to an individual’s overall health. Benzodiazepines depress the central nervous system and slow down respiratory functions, resulting in a lack of oxygen to the brain. When taken with alcohol, the risk of fatal overdose is even higher.
Signs of Klonopin overdose include:
- Slowed or difficulty breathing
- Low blood pressure
- Slurred speech
Withdrawal symptoms occur as a reaction to the loss or restriction of drugs in the body once an individual has become physically dependent. Klonopin use over an extended period causes the brain and body to become used to its effects and react accordingly. Once this occurs, sudden discontinuation causes the body to rebound, where the individual experiences intense withdrawal symptoms.
Symptoms of Klonopin withdrawal include:
- Sleep disturbances
- Increased anxiety and paranoia
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle pain
Symptoms of withdrawal begin between one to four days after discontinuation and can last two to eight weeks. Withdrawal from Klonopin is considered medically dangerous, so it is always recommended that detox occurs under the supervision of medical professionals.
Klonopin Addiction Treatment Programs at Laguna Shores Recovery
Both Klonopin overdose and withdrawal have very dangerous and even fatal effects. When an individual develops a tolerance to Klonopin, simply decreasing their normal dosage can cause symptoms of withdrawal. For this reason, a carefully scheduled tapering off regime involving slower-acting benzodiazepines is utilized for treating the physical effects of withdrawal. This must be conducted under the supervision of medical professionals to ensure a safe recovery.
In treatment at Laguna Shores Recovery, clients receive treatment for both the physical and mental effects of withdrawal and the lasting effects of addiction. Laguna Shores is a full medical facility accredited by The Joint Commission to treat individuals suffering from the effects of addiction and withdrawal.
During detox treatment at Laguna Shores Recovery, clients receive 24/7 care to ensure a safe recovery through close monitoring of withdrawal symptoms. Physical withdrawal symptoms can be managed through medically-assisted treatment, while psychological symptoms can be addressed by licensed professionals. Clients must first undergo a comprehensive evaluation before detox so that our physicians can develop effective treatment plans that fit their needs and address concerns. Because Klonopin withdrawal is medically dangerous, our medical team prioritizes wellness and safety above all else.
The residential treatment program at Laguna Shores Recovery offers evidence-based treatment modalities that assist clients through recovery from Klonopin addiction. Addiction does not end after detox, and life begins in recovery. For this reason, we walk with our clients through every triumph and trial. In residential treatment, our clients learn about co-occurring disorders, how addiction affects their lives, and how to prosper in recovery. Through individual and group therapies, our clients are encouraged and supported to heal from the effects of addiction.
Klonopin abuse is incredibly dangerous due to its highly addictive properties and can cause physical dependence or fatal overdose. Receiving treatment for Klonopin dependence in a trusted addiction facility can save your life or the life of your loved one. Call Laguna Shores Recovery to learn more about our detox and residential facility at (866) 229-9923.