Klonopin is a highly addictive prescribed medication that belongs to the Benzodiazepine drug group. This mediation is prescribed to help treat anxiety disorders, panic disorder, and seizure control. While this drug has many benefits when used properly, it also carries risks for being abused and becoming addictive. Abusing Klonopin can result in dangerous and potentially life-threatening outcomes, and medical treatment is crucial for a successful recovery.
Understanding Klonopin (Clonazepam)
Klonopin, also known by its generic name Clonazepam, is a commonly prescribed Benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders, panic attacks, seizure disorders as well as sleep difficulty, and alcohol withdrawal.
Klonopin works by binding to certain chemicals in the brain (gamma-aminobutyric acid, GABA), attached to the central nervous system. This creates a calming and sedative effect on the brain and central nervous system. Klonopin is a fast-acting medication, and typically reduces feelings of anxiety or panic within one to four hours.
While there are several benefits to using Klonopin for those suffering from mental health disorders, this drug is also highly addictive and can cause dangerous effects when used improperly.
Klonopin Effects and Abuse
Klonopin works by blocking the receptors in the brain that cause anxiety, stress and tension and while it helps many individuals diagnosed with anxiety disorders, it is also dangerously abused and has the potential of becoming addictive.
Using Klonopin without a prescription, upping the dosage and amount of pills taken, and combining Klonopin with other drugs to enhance the euphoric feeling are all ways in which this Benzo is often abused. Crushing and snorting the drug is another common way Klonopin is abused.
Abusing Klonopin can result in enhancing and worsening already common side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, muscle numbness or weakness, diarrhea, and impaired judgment. When mixed with other drugs such as alcohol, black-out episodes and respiratory collapse are common effects.
However, abusing Klonopin can also result in drug overdose. When someone has overdosed on Klonopin, they are in need of medical attention immediately to increase their chances of survival. Signs of a Klonopin overdose include: