Klonopin, or Clonazepam, is a benzodiazepine that can treat stress, anxiety, panic disorders, seizures, and insomnia. When a person uses Klonopin for a month or longer, it can cause the body to develop a Klonopin addiction. At this stage, if you try to quit the drug, Klonopin withdrawal symptoms can set in.
Crestview Recovery offers benzodiazepine addiction rehab in Portland, Oregon. This includes treatment for Klonopin addiction and withdrawal.
What is Klonopin?
Klonopin is the brand name for the medication clonazepam, which belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. It is commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders and panic disorders. Clonazepam works by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter in the brain that has a calming and relaxing effect.
As a benzodiazepine, Klonopin can help reduce excessive worry, nervousness, and other symptoms of anxiety by slowing down certain brain processes. It is also used to treat panic attacks, as it can help alleviate the intense and overwhelming feelings associated with these episodes.
Klonopin is available in various forms, including tablets and orally disintegrating tablets. It is typically taken orally and is available in different strengths.
However, it’s essential to use Klonopin as prescribed by a healthcare professional, as it can be habit-forming if misused or taken in higher doses than recommended. Abruptly stopping the medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms, so it should be gradually tapered off under medical supervision when discontinuing the treatment. Additionally, long-term use of Klonopin may lead to dependence, requiring addiction treatment.
What does Klonopin Treat?
Klonopin (clonazepam) is primarily prescribed to treat the following mental health disorders:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Klonopin is commonly used to manage excessive and persistent worry and anxiety associated with GAD, so it is used in anxiety treatment in Portland.
- Panic Disorder: It is effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of panic attacks and associated symptoms, such as palpitations, sweating, and fear of impending doom.
- Social Anxiety Disorder: Klonopin can be used to alleviate anxiety related to social situations and performance anxiety.
- Specific Phobias: In some cases, Klonopin may be prescribed to help individuals manage anxiety triggered by specific phobias, such as fear of flying or heights.
- Agoraphobia: Klonopin may be used to reduce anxiety and avoidance behavior associated with agoraphobia, which involves fear of situations where escape might be difficult.
- Bipolar Disorder: Klonopin can be used as an adjunct treatment for certain aspects of bipolar disorder, particularly for acute manic episodes or to manage anxiety in bipolar individuals.
- Akathisia: Klonopin is sometimes prescribed to manage akathisia, a side effect of certain medications characterized by restlessness and an urgent need to move.
It’s important to note that while Klonopin can be beneficial for managing symptoms of these mental health disorders, it should only be used under the guidance and prescription of a qualified healthcare professional. Additionally, due to the potential for tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal, it is generally prescribed for short-term use to manage acute symptoms. Long-term use of Klonopin should be carefully monitored and discussed with a healthcare provider to assess risks and benefits.
How Does Klonopin Affect You?
Klonopin (clonazepam) is a medication that affects the brain and central nervous system. Its intended effects are primarily related to its ability to enhance the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter in the brain that has a calming and inhibitory effect. By increasing GABA activity, Klonopin helps reduce excessive neural activity, leading to a decrease in anxiety, agitation, and panic symptoms.
- Anxiety Reduction: Klonopin is prescribed to alleviate excessive worry, nervousness, and anxiety symptoms associated with various anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety disorder.
- Panic Attack Relief: It helps reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks, providing relief from symptoms like rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, trembling, and feelings of impending doom.
- Sedation: Klonopin has a sedative effect, which can help individuals with insomnia or sleep disturbances associated with anxiety disorders.
However, Klonopin also comes with potential negative effects, especially when not used as prescribed or for extended periods. Some of the adverse effects of Klonopin include:
- Sedation and drowsiness
- Impaired coordination
- Memory and cognitive impairment
- Tolerance and dependence
- Paradoxical reactions
- Risk of abuse
Due to these potential side effects and risks, Klonopin should only be used as prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional, and its use should be regularly monitored. An individual should gradually quit using Klonopin under medical supervision to minimize withdrawal symptoms. As with any medication, it’s essential to discuss potential benefits and risks with a healthcare provider and report any concerning side effects promptly.
Are There Long-Term Side Effects of Klonopin?
There are potential long-term side effects associated with the prolonged use of Klonopin (clonazepam). While not everyone will experience these effects, some individuals may develop adverse reactions with extended use. Common long-term side effects of Clonazepam/Klonopin include:
- Cognitive Impairment: Prolonged use of Clonazepam may lead to cognitive impairment, affecting memory, attention, and concentration.
- Tolerance: With continued use, the body may develop tolerance to the medication, meaning that higher doses may be required to achieve the same therapeutic effect.
- Physical Dependence: Long-term use of Clonazepam can lead to physical dependence, wherein abrupt discontinuation or significant dose reduction can result in withdrawal symptoms.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: When Clonazepam is stopped suddenly, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, irritability, insomnia, tremors, and muscle cramps.
- Addiction: Prolonged use of benzodiazepines like Clonazepam can lead to psychological dependence and addiction in some individuals, especially those who misuse the medication.
- Sleep Disturbances: While Clonazepam can initially help with sleep, extended use may lead to rebound insomnia or other sleep disturbances.
- Motor Impairment: Long-term use of Clonazepam may impact motor skills and coordination, increasing the risk of falls and accidents.
- Emotional Blunting: Some individuals on long-term Clonazepam treatment may experience emotional blunting, where they feel a reduced range of emotions or emotional detachment.
- Respiratory Issues: In rare cases, prolonged use of benzodiazepines can lead to respiratory depression, especially in individuals with respiratory conditions.
It’s important to note that the benefits of Clonazepam for certain conditions, such as seizure disorders or panic disorder, may outweigh the potential risks of long-term use. However, healthcare providers carefully weigh the risks and benefits when prescribing Clonazepam for extended periods. If an individual has been taking Clonazepam long-term and wishes to discontinue the medication, it should be done under medical supervision, with a gradual tapering off to minimize the risk of withdrawal symptoms. As with any medication, it’s crucial to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with a healthcare provider.
What Are Signs of Being Addicted to Klonopin?
The signs of being addicted to Klonopin (clonazepam) can vary from person to person, but there are some common indicators to look out for. If you or someone you know is taking Klonopin and exhibiting the following signs, it may suggest the presence of an addiction:
- Increasing tolerance
- Using Klonopin compulsively
- Having persistent and intense cravings for Klonopin
- Doctor shopping
- Taking larger doses or using Klonopin more frequently than prescribed
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when attempting to cut down or stop Klonopin use
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Continued use despite consequences
- Disruption of daily routines
- Losing interest in hobbies
- Engaging in risky behaviors while under the influence of Klonopin
If you or someone you know is showing signs of Klonopin addiction, seeking professional help and support is crucial. Addiction to benzodiazepines like Klonopin requires proper evaluation and treatment by healthcare professionals to achieve a safe and successful recovery.
Can you Overdose on Klonopin?
Yes, it is possible to overdose on Klonopin (clonazepam) or any benzodiazepine medication. An overdose occurs when someone takes a higher amount of the drug than the body can safely metabolize, leading to potentially dangerous and life-threatening effects.
The risk of overdose on Klonopin is increased when:
- Taking High Doses
- Combining with Other Substances
- Mixing with Certain Medications
- Tolerance and Dependence
An overdose of Klonopin can lead to symptoms such as extreme drowsiness, confusion, slowed breathing, impaired coordination, and loss of consciousness. In severe cases, it can cause respiratory depression, coma, and death.
To minimize the risk of overdose, it’s crucial to take Klonopin exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional and avoid combining it with other substances without medical approval. If you or someone you know is struggling with Klonopin use, seek help from a healthcare provider or addiction specialist to discuss safe and appropriate treatment options.
What are the symptoms of Klonopin withdrawal?
Klonopin acts on your body by blocking stress receptors and slowing it down. Under the effects of Klonopin, you feel extremely calm. When you stop taking Klonopin, your body is once again vulnerable to stress and anxiety, but this time your brain also becomes hyperactive.
Common withdrawal symptoms include:
- Hallucinations
- Irritability
- Sleepiness
- Trouble with coordination
- Nausea and vomiting
- Increased body temperature
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Hand tremors
- Sweating
- Increased heart and respiratory rate
- Elevated blood pressure
Many disorders that individuals use Klonopin to treat will return over the first few days of quitting the drug. Klonopin withdrawal can be dangerous for your health. It’s a good option to check into a rehab facility like Crestview Recovery for quick treatment.
How Long Do Klonopin Withdrawal Symptoms Last?
Depending on how long you were on the drug, the withdrawal symptoms can last for a few weeks to a few months. Chronic substance use can even lead to changes in the biochemistry of the brain, resulting in some symptoms lasting for a few years. These long-term symptoms are called post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS).
PAWS include:
- Insomnia
- Difficulty remembering
- Depression
- Low energy
- Anxiety
- Cravings
What is the Treatment for Klonopin Addiction?
At Crestview Recovery, you will first receive a full evaluation to give us a clear idea about your medical history and any other health problems you suffer from. To treat Klonopin withdrawal symptoms, the practitioner will make a note of your age, how long you took Klonopin, and at what dose. Our experts will also make a note of whether you have been treated for addiction before.
Only once the practitioner is fully informed of your past and present health condition, will the addiction treatment begin. At Crestview Recovery, your safety is given the utmost importance. We use a gentle, yet effective, approach to help you overcome the addiction.
The treatment of Klonopin withdrawal symptoms will proceed with a detox plan that is made specifically for your case. The detox program could include gradually tapering off the use of the drug while monitoring withdrawal symptoms. You will also receive counseling to help you cope with the emotional impact of withdrawal and detox.
At Crestview Recovery, we offer several treatment options, including:
- Partial hospitalization program
- Outpatient rehab
- Residential and Inpatient Treatment Program
- Addiction Therapy Services
- Sober Living Program
Get Help With Drug Addiction at Crestview Recovery!
At Crestview Recovery, reaching sobriety isn’t our only goal. We hope you’ll leave us with the skills you need to prevent relapse and maintain a healthy lifestyle. When you receive support after the detox, there is less likelihood of you relapsing. At our facility, we make sure to support you for as long as you need us. By offering the full continuum of care, Crestview Recovery affords the ability to offer a one-stop solution for all your recovery needs.
Say goodbye to Klonopin addiction and get your life back on track. Contact us or give us a call at 866.580.4160 to learn more about our programs.
