A prescription sedative medication, Klonopin is prescribed by doctors to treat panic attacks, anxiety, and seizures. Also known by the generic drug name clonazepam, Klonopin is classified as a benzodiazepine. It is a Schedule IV drug under the Controlled Substance Act and is highly addictive.
How Does Klonopin Work?
Also known as K-pin, Klonopin works on the Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate the movement of nerve signals that send chemical messages to the brain and nervous system. When Klonopin is taken, it affects the central nervous system, slowing the activity of the brain and disrupting the communication between the brain’s cells. The drug causes extremely strong pleasurable feelings of euphoria and relaxation.
How Does Klonopin Addiction Occur?
Klonopin is one of the most addictive of the benzodiazepine drugs. Because its effects are felt quickly, the person rapidly develops tolerance, dependence, and addiction to it. When Klonopin is prescribed, it is essential to take it exactly as it is prescribed and for only fourteen days or less. Sadly, many people that are prescribed this medication do become addicted to it. When prescriptions run out, the drug can be procured illegally.
Klonopin Abuse and Addiction: Signs and Symptoms
If you think you or a loved one has developed an addiction to Klonopin, look for the following signs and symptoms.
Physical
Physical symptoms may include heart palpitations or a decrease in heart rate. It may be difficult to breathe, and breaths may be shallow. The individual may experience numbness in their extremities, a tingling feeling in their body, or have difficulty with their motor coordination or balance. Nauseousness, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, or fainting may occur.
Other physical symptoms include:
- Sensitivity to sounds and sights
- An increase in salivation, urination, and sweating
- Hives or rashes
- Changes in sex drive
- Increased muscle tension
- Seizures
Behavioral
A person abusing Klonopin may seem sedated or extremely drowsy. They may have difficulty thinking clearly. They may start taking higher doses or taking it for a longer period of time than prescribed. They may visit multiple doctors or begin doctor shopping as they try to obtain more prescriptions. They continue using the drug regardless of any negative consequences and show obsessive drug-seeking behaviors.
Additional behavioral signs of Klonopin addiction include:
- Using the drug for recreational purposes or using it for non-medical purposes
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Losing interest in activities that were once enjoyable
- Lack of motivation
- Loss of personal relationships
- Difficulty sleeping or a change in sleeping patterns
Psychological
The individual will show an extremely intense preoccupation with obtaining and using Klonopin. They will have a strong craving for the drug. Family and friends may notice personality changes. Suicidal thoughts may occur.
The following are other possible psychological symptoms of Klonopin addiction:
- Short-term memory loss
- Auditory hallucinations
- Difficulty thinking and solving problems
- Psychosis
Noticeable changes in mood can take place, including depression, euphoria, anxiety, irritability, and panic attacks.
The Severe Effects of Klonopin
Klonopin addiction, like other substance use disorders, affects the addicted person as well as their loved ones. Addiction often leads to personal, financial, or legal problems. Jobs are lost, relationships fall apart, and physical, mental, and emotional health suffer.
Several additional severe effects of Klonopin addiction may include:
- Development of deep depression
- Loss of inhibitions, putting the person at a greater risk for accidents and being in dangerous situations
- Sexual dysfunction
- Overdose, which can lead to a coma and death
Numerous studies, such as the one in The British Medical Journal, link the use of benzodiazepines such as Klonopin with an increased risk of developing dementia.
The Danger of Mixing Klonopin with Alcohol
Taking Klonopin and alcohol together is a very dangerous combination and can be life-threatening. Every side effect a person has from the drug will be intensified if they drink alcohol with it. For example, if a person has a low heart rate or shallow breathing as a result of taking Klonopin, alcohol can very quickly intensify these side effects and result in loss of consciousness, dizziness, or fainting. Mixing alcohol and Klonopin can also cause severe anxiety, paranoia, suicidal thoughts, and suicidal impulses.
If You Need Help for A Substance Use Disorder
Anyone can develop an addiction to drugs or alcohol. If you or someone you love has a substance use disorder, there is help available. At English Mountain Recovery located in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, a team of trained professionals will provide you with the tools you need to live a life free of drugs and alcohol. Call us today, and let us help you begin your journey to a clean and sober life.
