Klonopin Withdrawal Symptoms (8 Signs to Watch Out For)
Klonopin belongs to a group of benzodiazepines and is often prescribed to treat anxiety and insomnia. If someone stops taking Klonopin, they may experience unpleasant symptoms such as anxiety and irritability during withdrawal.
It is difficult to predict how Klonopin withdrawal will specifically affect you since every person’s experience can be unique. However, I have conducted extensive research on the topic and can provide information on Klonopin withdrawal symptoms and potential treatment options.
Quick Summary
Clonazepam (Klonopin) withdrawal symptoms can be dangerous if not managed properly.
Klonopin withdrawal symptoms can last several weeks or months, with physical symptoms typically subsiding before psychological symptoms.
Treatment options for Klonopin withdrawal include medically supervised detoxification, behavioral therapy, and medication-assisted treatment.
What Is Klonopin (Clonazepam) Withdrawal?
Klonopin (Clonazepam) withdrawal is the reaction that occurs when a person stops taking Klonopin after prolonged use. Symptoms may include anxiety, irritability, insomnia, and nausea [1].
Klonopin amplifies the impact of neurotransmitters in the central nervous system called GABA, which is a brain chemical responsible for inducing a sense of calmness [2]. GABA decelerates particular nerve signals in the brain and relaxes the body and mind.
If the drug doesn’t obstruct these receptors, Klonopin consumers may experience withdrawal symptoms. Dependence on Klonopin can develop in as little as a month, and the user must continue taking the drug to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
If someone abruptly lowers their Klonopin dosage or decides to quit cold turkey, they may experience a range of physical, emotional, and cognitive withdrawal symptoms, such as shaking and seizures.
It’s important for people who are addicted to Klonopin to slowly decrease their usage because the withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening.
What Are The Withdrawal Symptoms Of Klonopin?
The withdrawal symptoms of Klonopin are irritability, headache, sweating, and insomnia.
Other symptoms include:
Depression
Confusion
Panic Disorders
Nightmares
Body aches and weakness
Hallucinations
Tremors
Seizure Disorders
In protracted withdrawal, symptoms may include new symptoms and the reemergence of symptoms managed with Klonopin, such as anxiety or panic attacks [3].
The rebound effect can cause a sudden reappearance of symptoms that a drug is meant to treat. It may happen while using the drug or during acute withdrawal.
When withdrawing, people might feel symptoms of mental disorders, such as a rebound of anxiety, ranging from slight nervousness to severe panic attacks.
Klonopin withdrawal occurs because of changes in the drug’s interaction with your body. When you take Klonopin, it alters the way neurotransmitters function in your brain and enhances their effects.
Over time, these changes can lead to a physical dependence on Klonopin and cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking it suddenly or reduce your dosage too quickly. It’s important to know that Klonopin should only be taken briefly.
This is because, over a few weeks, many people can become physically dependent on it.
Some follow their doctor’s prescription for medication very closely, while others obtain drugs illegally or consciously abuse them by taking more or taking them in higher doses than prescribed.
Klonopin Withdrawal Timeline
Withdrawal symptoms can start between two to seven days after the last dose WHO experts say that acute withdrawal symptoms usually last for two to eight weeks, coming and going during this time [4].
The timeline below is a general guide to what may happen during clonazepam withdrawal. Keep in mind that every detox experience can be different.
Days 1-3
Withdrawal symptoms such as mild anxiety and mood changes may appear within one to three days after the last dose. Additionally, experiencing difficulty falling asleep or getting a full night’s rest may occur.
Days 7-14
Klonopin withdrawal symptoms reach their highest point one to two weeks after the last dose. Experiencing anxiety and irritability during this period is common. If someone abruptly stops taking Klonopin, they may have severe body tremors, hallucinations, or seizures.
Weeks 3-4
Withdrawal symptoms usually last three to four weeks, but anxiety may continue. Although some days may be harder than others, the most intense withdrawal period usually ends by this time. However, post-acute withdrawal symptoms can still occur.
Months 2+
Withdrawal symptoms, although mild, can still occur for up to three months after stopping Klonopin use. Individuals with severe addictions are more likely to experience noticeable symptoms. To prevent prolonged symptoms, decreasing the dosage of Klonopin gradually is advisable.
“The improvement in panic disorder and general well-being was maintained during the taper and follow-up phases. [Klonopin] can be successfully discontinued without any major withdrawal symptoms if the dose is reduced gradually.”
– Antonio Nardi E. MD, Ph.D., Professor of Psychiatry at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro School of Medicine
Klonopin Addiction Treatment
It is recommended to undergo Klonopin withdrawal with medical supervision, either from a physician or a rehab/detox facility.
Attempting to withdraw without proper substance abuse treatment may result in various risks, such as seizures, relapse, and exacerbation of physical or mental health problems.
A licensed health professional will usually assess you before the detox. They will inquire about your medical history, mental health status, the extent of your Klonopin addiction, and other related factors.
After assessing your situation, a medical professional will develop a detox plan specifically for you. This may involve gradually reducing your Klonopin dosage and incorporating other medications if necessary.
Tapering is important because abruptly stopping benzodiazepines can be unsafe. A slow and steady decline allows your body to adjust safely.
You might require additional support during tapering if you are vulnerable to severe withdrawal symptoms like delirium or seizures.
Substitute medications such as Valium (diazepam) can be helpful, and you may need to go to a more intensive treatment location, such as a hospital or inpatient treatment center.
Tapering Off Of Klonopin
Tapering off Klonopin is the best way to discontinue its use safely. It involves gradually decreasing your dosage over some time until you reach zero.
The exact length of tapering depends on how long you have been taking Klonopin and how much you take daily.
Various factors, such as your initial dosage and goals, will determine the length of your taper.
Research conducted in primary care settings revealed that a slow taper over at least 10 weeks tends to be the most effective. Some individuals choose to continue tapering for up to a year or longer.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy can be beneficial, however, because it allows individuals to develop coping strategies for dealing with stressors and triggers. It can also provide emotional support during this difficult time.
Addiction Treatment Centers
If you are struggling with Klonopin addiction, consider seeking help from an inpatient or outpatient rehab. These facilities have trained physicians and counselors who specialize in substance abuse treatment. Combining therapy with medically supervised detox can improve your chances of overcoming addiction.
Detox
Detox drinks are a great option to help manage the intensity of Klonopin withdrawal symptoms.
These beverages contain ingredients that can help reduce cravings, alleviate anxiety and depression, improve sleep quality, and provide other benefits during detox.
They also allow your body to flush toxins more quickly by increasing hydration levels.
What’s The Difference Between Clonazepam (Klonopin) And Xanax?
The difference between Clonazepam (Klonopin) and Xanax is in their duration of action, potency, and the conditions they are prescribed for. Klonopin is longer-acting and tends to be prescribed for seizures, panic disorders, and anxiety disorders. Xanax has a shorter duration of action and is often used for the shorter-term treatment of anxiety and panic attacks.
How Common Are Clonazepam (Klonopin) Addiction And Drug Abuse?
Clonazepam (Klonopin) addiction and drug abuse are common, especially among people who have been using the medication for an extended period or in higher doses than prescribed.
What Are The Most Common Risks of Klonopin Withdrawal During a Taper?
The most common risks of Klonopin withdrawal during a taper include rebound anxiety, seizures, and other acute withdrawal symptoms. Tapering Klonopin under the guidance of a healthcare professional can help reduce uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.
Manage Your Klonopin Withdrawal Symptoms Safely
If you or someone you know is going through the Klonopin withdrawal process, seeking professional assistance and exploring available options to manage symptoms is crucial.
Drinking detox beverages is an effective method to minimize the intensity of withdrawal symptoms.
After comparing several products on the market, Clear Choice Rescue Cleanse stands out as the best option due to its fast-acting formula.
This detox drink contains natural ingredients, vitamins, and minerals that can support the body’s detoxification process and aid in managing withdrawal symptoms.
Lisa is a content writer, blogger, and entrepreneur. When she is not managing her business, Colonial Stores, Lisa spends most of her time researching about synthetic urine products to review. She loves sharing her learnings in a form of blogging that’s why she built a website to connect with many people. You can read more about me here.
