Klonopin Addiction

Klonopin is part of a group of medications called benzodiazepines, which are controlled substances that may cause addiction or dependence. A Klonopin addiction is more likely to occur if the medication has been taken daily for a long period of time or in high doses. If a person is addicted to Klonopin and tries to stop taking the medication, he or she may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures, panic attacks, or sensitivity to light or sound.

 

An Overview of Klonopin Addiction

Klonopin® (clonazepam) is a prescription medication used to treat panic disorder and certain types of seizures. It is part of a group of medications called benzodiazepines. All benzodiazepines are controlled substances, which means they have the potential to be abused and may cause addiction or dependence. Addiction, or "dependence," is when a person feels like he or she needs to continue to take a medicine, even when no medical need is present.
 
Klonopin addiction is more likely to occur if the medicine has been taken daily for a long period of time or in high doses. It is also more likely to occur in people with a history of alcohol or drug addiction. Because Klonopin is a controlled substance, there are special rules regarding the prescribing and dispensing of the medication. These rules are in place to help prevent Klonopin abuse and addiction.
 

Understanding CNS Depressants

Central nervous system depressants (CNS depressants), sometimes referred to as sedatives and tranquilizers, are substances that can slow normal brain function. Because of this property, some CNS depressants are useful in the treatment of anxiety and sleep disorders, but may lead to dependence or abuse. Benzodiazepines are one example of CNS depressants. Beside Klonopin, some of the more commonly used benzodiazepines include:
 
Another class of CNS depressant medicines is barbiturates, which includes medications such as mephobarbital (Mebaral®), pentobarbital sodium (Nembutal®), and phenobarbital (Luminal®).
 
(Klonopin Addiction Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;