Can you get addicted to klonopin?

Yes, Klonopin is addictive. What’s your risk of getting addicted? Find out here.

3
minute read

Yes.  Klonopin is a habit-forming medication.

In fact, Klonopin is one of the Top 10 addictive sleeping pills.  Not only can Klonopin cause a physical addiction, but abruptly stopping the medication can cause severe and frightening withdrawal symptoms. How does Klonopin affect the body and central nervous system? What happens if you stop taking your medication? What can you do if you’d like to stop using Klonopin and try other sleep aids, such as melatonin (can I get addicted to melatonin)? We answer these questions here and invite your questions and feedback about Klonopin use at the end.

Klonopin chemistry and use

Klonopin contains clonazepam, a benzodiazepine mediation. Clonazepam is prescribed by doctors help control certain types of seizures. Klonopin can also be used to relieve panic attacks, treat symptoms of akathisia (restlessness and a need for constant movement), and to treat catatonic reactions.

What does Klonopin do in the body?

Klonopin works by decreasing abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Because it acts directly on the brain, Klonopin can create unwanted side effects, including changes in mood or behavior. About 1 in 500 people taking anti-epileptics become suicidal as a result of their medication. More frequently, however, Klonopin causes drowsiness, coordination problems, difficulty with memory, and similar problems.

How do you get addicted to Klonopin?

Any long-term use of this medication can create a physical dependence. However, Klonopin dependence is different than Klonipin addiction. Dependence is characterized by tolerance (the need for more medication to achieve the same therapeutic effect) and withdrawal (symptoms that occur when you stop taking the medication. Addiction may include physical dependence, but is characterized by psychological dependence, and the continued use of a drug despite the negative life consequences in the user.

You get addicted to Klonopin by taking Klonopin chronically over time, and developing a psychological dependence on the drug in order to function normally. Usually Klonopin is only prescribed for serious conditions, where the risk of addiction is less important than the treatment of symptoms. Taking the medication in doses larger than prescribed, or more often than prescribed, will increase the risk of getting addicted to Klonopin.

If you find yourself in such situation – act immediately. Addiction treatment programs for Klonopin have helped hundreds of people to quit and walk tall in recovery. Why can’t you?

Who is at risk of Klonopin addiction?

As long as Klonopin is used as prescribed, the risk will be minimal – however, some drug abusers will illegally obtain Klonopin as a substitute for harder drugs like heroin. They may also intentionally take excessive doses in order to enhance the effects of opiate drugs. Klonopin should not be prescribed to people with a high risk of addiction. If you have abused drugs or alcohol in the past, you are more likely to become a Klonopin addict.

Symptoms of Klonopin withdrawal

If you quit taking Klonopin abruptly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. If you’ve been taking the medication for an extended period of time, these effects are more likely. You may experience:

  • anxiety
  • changes in behavior
  • hallucinations
  • insomnia
  • muscle cramps
  • new or worsening seizures
  • stomach cramps
  • uncontrollable shaking

Recognize these signs and symptoms of Klonopin (clonazepam) addiction in yourself or someone close to you? If YES…don’t wait to get help. Learn what it’s like to seek help from Clonazepam Addiction Treatment Programs and how you can choose the best treatment type, duration, and therapies for you. OR call 1-877-960-2430 NOW for immediate guidance towards appropriate treatment options.

Questions about Klonopin dependency

Klonopin should only be used as directed by your doctor. But what should you do if you’re addicted to your prescription Klonopin? First of all, you should never stop this medication without speaking to your doctor. Abruptly stopping this medication can cause severe withdrawal symptoms. Your prescribing doctor will be able to recommend a schedule for tapering the dosage so you can avoid serious withdrawal symptoms.

Reference sources: PubMed Health: Clonazepam
National Drug Intelligence Center: Other Dangerous Drugs
Drug Enforcement Administration: Benzodiazepines
About the author
Lee Weber is a published author, medical writer, and woman in long-term recovery from addiction. Her latest book, The Definitive Guide to Addiction Interventions is set to reach university bookstores in early 2019.
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