Klonopin Side Effects | Short-Term & Long-Term Side Effects Of Clonazepam

Klonopin is a prescription medication containing clonazepam, a benzodiazepine medicine with a chemical structure and effect similar to other benzodiazepines like Xanax (alprazolam), Restoril (temazepam), Ativan (lorazepam), and Valium (diazepam).

If you suffer from anxiety disorders or muscular tics, Klonopin may play an important role in your treatment as a powerful antidepressant or anticonvulsant. 

However, its use is associated with a variety of side effects, and abusing Klonopin can lead to severe long-term health issues like memory loss, confusion, substance use disorder, and withdrawal symptoms.

Klonopin Short-Term Side Effects

Klonopin is a sedative-hypnotic and central nervous system depressant. It works by interacting with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain, causing the body to release the GABA neurotransmitter, slowing down and calming brain activity.

Therapeutic Effects

Klonopin is effective in treating anxiety, panic attacks, panic disorders, agoraphobia, muscular tics, seizure disorders, and other associated conditions. 

Its therapeutic effects include:

• a reduction in anxiety
• mental relaxation
• reduction in overall bodily tension, restlessness, and agitation
• a mild feeling of wellbeing, euphoria, or pleasure

Side Effects

Other side effects associated with typical Klonpin use include:

• drowsiness
• dizziness
• muscular weakness
• unsteadiness and loss of orientation
• depression
• headaches
• sleep disturbances
• problems with thinking or memory
• slurred speech
• loss of appetite
• constipation
• blurred vision

Serious Effects Of Klonopin Abuse

When Klonopin is taken in higher dosages it results in benzodiazepine intoxication, which heightens the medication’s euphoric effect and lowers inhibitions, similar to alcohol intoxication.

However, this will put you at risk of a potentially fatal overdose, especially when the medication is combined with other CNS depressants like alcohol, opioids, or barbiturates.

Abusing Klonopin generally leads to a worsening of the side effects of Klonopin, while also increasing the risk of serious effects like:

• upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting
• psychotic symptoms including paranoia, hallucinations, and suicidal impulses
• aggression and violent behaviors

Klonopin Long Term Side Effects

Clonazepam is habit-forming and doctors prescribing it should only do so for short-term periods. The longer an individual takes it, the more likely they are to suffer from adverse effects such as Klonopin addiction or overdose.

Other long-term effects of Klonopin use can include:

• mania
• suicidal thoughts or impulses
• impaired judgment
• impulse control problems
• disorientation and confusion
• memory loss
• muscle weakness
• impaired thinking, reasoning, and learning
• hostile, erratic behavior and psychosis
• mood swings
• increased likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s Disease (+84 percent chance after 6 months)
• prolonged, severe withdrawal symptoms once the medication is discontinued
• increased risk of overdose

Klonopin Overdose

An overdose caused by benzodiazepines is a potentially life-threatening situation, and can be recognized by the following symptoms:

• extreme sedation (severe sleepiness)
• confusion
• dilated pupils
• clammy skin
• poor reflexes
• difficulty breathing
• rapid heart rate, heart palpitations, and weak pulse
• seizure
• loss of consciousness

If you suspect an overdose has occurred, immediately call for emergency medical aid.

Learn more about Klonopin Overdose

Klonopin Withdrawal Symptoms

It does not take long for the body to develop a dependence on Klonopin, a process that is accelerated when higher doses are taken or the drug is taken more often.

Once dependence forms you may be able to stop taking the drug without unpleasant and potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms.

People who are dependent on Klonopin and stop using it are likely to experience a range of withdrawal symptoms that can last up to 4 weeks.

Possible symptoms include:

• anxiety
• irritability
• muscle pain and stiffness
• sweating
• tremors
• difficulty concentrating
• insomnia
• headaches
• nausea and vomiting
• hallucinations
• seizures

These symptoms may be dangerous, and medical detox is strongly recommended for anyone who has been abusing high doses of Klonopin.

During medical detox, healthcare providers gradually reduce dosages to reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms in a safe and controlled manner. Physical and mental health are also closely monitored.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction to Klonopin or other prescription drugs, or you’re concerned that you’ve developed a physical dependence on this medication, contact an Ark Behavioral Health Specialist to learn about your treatment options today.