Is Klonopin Addictive?

Klonopin is a brand name for clonazepam, a prescription drug that falls under the category of benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines, or benzo’s for their street name, are depressants that are typically used to treat seizures, anxiety, and panic disorders. Other commonly known benzos include Valium, Xanax, Halcion, and Ativan.

Being part of the same drug class, users that may be considering changing medications should wonder – How addictive is Klonopin? or, Is Klonopin addictive like Xanax?

How Does Klonopin Work?

Klonopin works in patients by lowering abnormal brain activity, making it a popular anti-seizure and panic attack medication. 

It doesn’t take long before patients also discover that Klonopin, like other depressants, produces pleasant feelings of relaxation and calmness, the latter makes Klonopin a sought-after recreational drug, which can lead patients to abuse, addiction, and unfortunately also overdose.

Asides from Klonopin’s nerve-calming effects users will also experience:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Unsteadiness
• Problems with coordination
• A clouded mind or difficulty thinking and remembering
• Muscle or joint pain
• Frequent urination
• Blurred vision
• Changes in sex drive

Is Klonopin Addictive?

Due to its ability to lower anxiety, pain, and abnormal brain activity in the brain, Klonopin can actually be employed in the treatment of addiction; however, the drug itself is also highly addictive.

For that reason, the better question to ask is – how addictive is Klonopin?

Klonopin is much stronger than its counterparts, Klonopin also tends to develop tolerance in users much quicker, which as we know ultimately ends up in user dependence. The risk intensifies with patients with developed mental health disorders, as they are likely to end up abusing substances. After the body has built dependency, it will not be able to function without it, causing life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.

Because of its high potency and risk of dependency, it’s extremely important to take Klonopin only as prescribed, usually one to three tablets per day, and not for extended periods of time that may build tolerance and dependency. Always consult with your doctor first.

Is Klonopin Addictive Like Xanax?

When treating anxiety, most doctors may recommend either Klonopin or Xanax, as these are the two leading short-term anxiety medications available in the US market. But is Klonopin addictive like Xanax? Which one is the safest choice?

While all benzos are addictive, Klonopin is in fact more addictive than Xanax due to its stronger feeling of euphoria, which makes it a higher risk for dependency with prolonged use.

Klonopin Addiction in the United States

Klonopin is more often abused by opioid and cocaine users, particularly opioid users who may look to enhance their opioid-induced euphoria by inviting benzos to the party. A lethal mix that has claimed the lives of roughly 12,000 users in 2020 alone, a growing and concerning number.

Benzodiazepines use in the United States ranks high, with around 12% of adults in the US reporting having used it, that’s nearly 30 million people. A staggering number that places a high percentage of the population at risk for abuse. 

It’s then no surprise to learn that benzodiazepines have created a “shadow epidemic” in the US, as so many Americans are exposed to them.

Need Help With Benzo Addiction?

Now that we better understand how addictive Klonopin is, we are better prepared to determine if abuse may be present in ourselves or a loved one. 

If you or a loved one is showing signs of benzo addiction then it’s important to seek help. 

The best way to treat addiction to Klonopin and other benzos is by attending rehab. Dual-diagnosis patients suffering from mental disorders are particularly susceptible to the difficulties of addiction, seeking a recovery center that specializes in both is crucial for the betterment of the addict.

Elysium Healthcare is an expert in addiction treatments that can help you or your loved ones get the help they need to get better. 

Contact Elysium today, to get your loved ones the help they need.