Over 40 million adults in the United States live with anxiety and panic disorders.[1] Many take prescription medications to reduce their symptoms and improve functioning. Klonopin (clonazepam) is one of the most commonly prescribed medications used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. 

While Klonopin is effective at relieving symptoms of anxiety and other conditions, it also has the risk of abuse and addiction. People who develop Klonopin addiction require comprehensive treatment and support to stop using the drug and prevent relapse. 

This article will explore Klonopin (clonazepam) addiction. You will learn:

• The side effects of Klonopin and how it works
• How Klonopin abuse occurs
• The symptoms of Klonopin addiction
• What to expect during Klonopin addiction treatment
• Where to find addiction treatment and support in recovery

If you or someone you love struggles with Klonopin abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Moving Mountains Recovery specialists to learn about our treatment programs. You can also find support at any stage of your recovery journey or schedule appointments. 

What is Klonopin?

Klonopin is the brand name for a prescription drug called clonazepam.[2] Klonopin belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are highly addictive, and people may become dependent on them after abusing them for a short time. 

Klonopin works by raising the amount of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain[2,3]. This naturally occurring neurotransmitter neutralizes adrenaline and reduces central nervous system (CNS) activity. 

People may take benzodiazepines like Klonopin to manage a range of conditions, including:

• Bipolar disorder
• Panic disorder
• Anxiety disorder
• Epilepsy
• Seizures

Klonopin is a long-acting benzodiazepine, meaning it remains in the body longer than short-acting drugs. 

Klonopin is a Schedule IV drug, meaning it has a relatively low risk of abuse. Still, many people who abuse Klonopin can develop a dependence on it. Doctors typically prescribe Klonopin for short-term use to limit the risk of developing an addiction to it.

Understanding Klonopin Abuse

Klonopin is effective at treating anxiety and panic symptoms. People may also experience other side effects while taking this drug, including:

• Sedation
• Feelings of calm and relaxation
• Euphoria

People may like the way they feel when taking Klonopin, which can lead them to abuse it. Klonopin abuse includes:

• Taking a larger dose than prescribed
• Taking Klonopin more often than prescribed
• Ingesting it differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting the pills
• Using Klonopin longer than prescribed
• Taking Klonopin recreationally (without a prescription)

Long-term Klonopin abuse can lead to people taking dangerously large doses of the drug. This can increase the risk of overdose. It also puts people at increased risk of developing substance use disorder (SUD) and addiction.

Recognizing the Signs of Klonopin Addiction

Research from 2011 showed there were over 76,000 emergency department visits related to Klonpin misuse. This number has risen 100% since researchers collected data in 2004. According to recent research, benzodiazepine-related overdose deaths have increased since then.

Benzodiazepines are addictive substances with the potential for serious, even life-threatening harm. Recognizing the signs of Klonopin addiction can help you seek treatment as quickly as possible. 

You can watch for signs of Klonopin addiction, including:[4,5]

• Compulsive drug-seeking and use
• Cravings
• Taking higher doses of Klonopin or running out of prescriptions early
• Taking Klonopin recreationally (without a prescription)
• Exhibiting withdrawal symptoms (elevated heart rate, anxiety, nausea, hallucinations, etc.) if they stop taking it
• Neglecting their hygiene, relationships, and responsibility
• Isolating
• Changes in appetite and sleep patterns
• Memory problems

People may exhibit side effects of Klonopin abuse, including dizziness, appearing drunk, unsteady gait, and excessive drowsiness.

Klonopin abuse can be dangerous and may lead to addiction. If you or a loved one abuse Klonopin, seek treatment right away.

Treatment for Klonopin Addiction

Benzodiazepine abuse treatment typically happens in stages. First, a medical or addiction specialist will conduct a substance abuse eval. This assessment consists of:

• Information about past and current substance use
• A complete medical and mental health history
• Family history of substance abuse or addiction
• Lab testing 
• A physical exam

This evaluation will help the treatment team determine the correct course of treatment and level of care. Depending on their needs, people may seek inpatient or outpatient rehab. 

Generally, Klonopin addiction treatment includes:

• Medically supervised detox programs (medications, supervision, screenings, and support to manage withdrawal)
• Mental health care
• Behavioral therapies
• Individual, group, and family counseling
• Relapse prevention education
• Coping skills
• Nutrition support, mindfulness, exercise, and other holistic therapies
• Aftercare planning and support

Comprehensive treatment programs can help people identify and address the behavioral, psychological, and physical aspects of their substance abuse. It can help people safely stop using Klonopin and avoid relapse. 

Find Addiction Treatment and Support Now

If you or someone you love abuse Klonopin or other benzodiazepines, you are not alone. Effective, empathetic care is available at Moving Mountains Recovery. Reach out to our intake team now to explore our programs or schedule an initial assessment.