Last Updated on February 15, 2020
Klonopin is applied in the therapy of anxiety and panic disorders. It has a calming, anxiety-reducing effect, which allows you to effectively cope with the symptoms. Get to know about the side effects and more by reading below.
An estimate of 2.3 million people take Klonopin in the United States only. This preparation aims to relieve the manifestations of panic disorder, seizure disorder, and anxiety. This preparation is also applied in the therapy of akathisia – a movement disorder, which is characterized by restlessness and inability to sit still. The beneficial properties of Klonopin are similar to those of other benzodiazepines. Like any other drug, Klonopin use requires caution. If used inappropriately, the medicine can cause a broad range of unwanted reactions. So you have to be careful and stick to the prescription given by your GP. By the way, Klonopin is a controlled drug, which means it is sold only by prescription.
How Klonopin Works
The active substance in Klonopin is called clonazepam. Its positive influence on mental health is explained by its ability to enhance the activity of GABA neurotransmitters in the human brain. The medication helps to calm down, reduce the levels of anxiety and panic. It works to prevent panic attacks and seizures. After an oral intake, Clonazepam comes into effect within an hour. Its effects last from six to twelve hours. The longevity of the effects depends on the dosage you use and the peculiarities of your metabolism.
What Are the Common Unwanted Reactions to Klonopin?
Scientists say that Klonopin is as effective as other benzodiazepines. However, the incidence of its adverse effects is much lower. If compared to lorazepam and alprazolam, which cause adverse reactions in 43.9% and 48.4%, respectively, only 26.7% of clonazepam users experience unwanted reactions to the drug. The difference is significant, which proves Klonopin to be a better alternative to other drugs of the same family.
The most often reported reactions to the drug include:
– drowsiness;
– behavior changes;
– muscle weakness;
– depression;
– dizziness;
– a lack of control over muscle movements called ataxia.
The incidence and type of adverse reactions vary depending on the medical condition you suffer. The unwanted reactions are typically more common in those who use Klonopin for a seizure disorder. It is explained by the use of higher dosages of the medication in such patients.
What About Interactions?
Clonazepam gets into interaction with some medicines, which influence its metabolism and clearance from the body. You should consult your GP regarding the risks of taking Klonopin with other drugs.
Klonopin should not be ingested with oral antifungals, as they inhibit an enzyme involved in Clonazepam metabolism. Besides, you have to avoid the use of this preparation with other medicines possessing CNS-depressant effects. They include:
– barbiturates;
– anxiolytics;
– sedative-hypnotics;
– certain classes of antipsychotics;
– MAOIs;
– opiates;
– some antidepressants.
These medicines may create a synergistic effect if combined with Klonopin. The resulting excessive sedation of the nervous system may trigger breathing problems and other severe adverse reactions. Exclude alcoholic beverages from your diet when on Clonazepam. Alcohol is a CNS depressant, which is why it potentiates the effects produced by the active substance of Klonopin and enhances the risks of unwanted reactions.
Advice on Safe Intake of Klonopin
The intake of Clonazepam needs to be agreed upon with a healthcare professional. A medical specialist will evaluate your medical condition and take into account the comorbidities you may suffer when deciding whether you may take this drug or not. Below, you’ll find some general pieces of advice that will help you use Klonopin effectively and safely.
– Take the pills orally, washing them down with a glass of water.
– Usually, Klonopin is taken twice or three times daily unless your doctor says different.
– If you need your dose to be increased, discuss it with your GP. Dose titration can be made every three days until the therapeutic effect is achieved or you reach a maximum safe daily dose.
– As you proceed in your therapy, Klonopin may not work as well as it used to at the beginning of treatment. Tell your GP about that. You will probably need your dose to be increased.
– You need to know that Klonopin may cause addiction. Follow your doctor’s advice closely to reduce the risks of forming a habit.
– To stop the treatment, reduce the dose of Klonopin gradually. Otherwise, you will experience a withdrawal.
Klonopin is a potent anticonvulsant and anxiolytic, which can help people cope with the symptoms of their disorders. It is much safer compared to other medicines with similar properties. Anyway, it’s not only you but also your healthcare provider who needs to make a decision concerning Klonopin intake.