Klonopin is a powerful drug known as a benzodiazepine; some people become addicted to it in as little as a month. Many people have formed an addiction to Klonopin by simply taking the amount prescribed by their doctor. Klonopin blocks special receptors in the brain to reduce stress and anxiety. When a person becomes addicted to the drug, their brain is no longer able to create feelings of calmness and relaxation without it. This is why people addicted to Klonopin have a hard time quitting and are unable to function normally when they don’t have it.
Some signs that you may be addicted to Klonopin addiction are:
- Continual cravings for Klonopin
- Using Klonopin despite its negative effects
- Having the desire to quit but being unable to
- Losing interest in professional or social obligations
- Developing financial or legal issues
Songwriter and singer Stevie Nicks publicly shared her struggles with an addiction to Klonopin. Because the drug was prescribed to her by her doctor, she explained that she possessed a false sense of security about using it.
Although Klonopin is effective in treating serious medical problems such as epilepsy, it is also a potent drug that has a high likeliness of being abused. Any use of Klonopin without a legitimate prescription is classified as abuse. At higher than prescribed doses, Klonopin inhibits the central nervous system greatly. This causes a short, euphoric “high” followed by an intoxicated stupor. Some people crush Klonopin tablets up into a fine powder and snort them to intensify the drug’s effects.
When someone abuses Klonopin or takes doses that are too high or uses it for long time periods, they may exhibit symptoms such as:
- Fainting
- Dizziness
- Vertigo
- Impaired cognition
- Numbness
- Confusion
- Slow reaction time
- Impaired judgment
- Decreased libido
Klonopin is most commonly combined with alcohol to amplify the effects of both drugs, which can lead to respiratory failure and blackouts. Some people abuse Klonopin because it produces hallucinatory effects when taken in large quantities. No matter the reason for abuse, large doses of Klonopin can put users at risk of overdose. As the drug slows the central nervous system, functions like heart rate and breathing are slow and can lead to coma or death.
Signs of a Klonopin overdose can include:
- Unintelligible speech
- Extreme drowsiness
- Reduced attention span
- Memory loss
- Lack of coordination
When someone abuses Klonopin, they are likely to struggle with body function and overall alertness. After a period of time dependent on Klonopin, there is a risk of paradoxical reactions. Paradoxical reactions are the opposite effect of what the drug is supposed to be doing, such as increased irritability, anxiety, agitation, and poor sleep. Long term use of Klonopin can also lead to depression and panic attacks. The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
