Klonopin is a prescription sedative prescribed as an anti-anxiety or an anticonvulsant medication.
Physicians primarily prescribe Klonopin (clonazepam) to reduce the anxiety associated with panic attacks.
A long-acting benzodiazepine, Klonopin stays in the system for a long time. The sustained use of clonazepam can lead to the development of:
- Tolerance
- Physical dependence
- Klonopin addiction (substance use disorder)
Today’s guide highlights what to expect during Klonopin detox and shows you how to help with Klonopin withdrawal.
Klonopin Withdrawal Symptoms
Klonopin is often diverted for non-medical use. The medication is sold on the black market since it is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance.
Taking Klonopin for more than a few weeks can cause tolerance to build. If you use more Klonopin to counter the diminished effects of the medication, this can accelerate the development of physical dependence.
Addiction to Klonopin can develop, requiring inpatient or outpatient treatment and a tapered withdrawal.
Withdrawal from Klonopin is characterized by an array of physical and psychological symptoms. This is the body’s response to functioning without the presence of a substance to which it had become accustomed.
Common physical withdrawal symptoms from Klonopin include:
- Lightheadedness
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Memory loss
- Tremors
- Irregular heart rate
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Impaired respiration
- Increased blood pressure
- Sweating
- Diarrhea
- Loss of coordination
- Muscle spasms
- Cramps
- Seizures
Common psychological withdrawal symptoms from Klonopin include:
- Anger
- Hostility
- Irritability
- Difficulties concentrating
- Short-term memory lapses
- Mental confusion
- Nightmares
- Hallucinations
- Disconnection from reality
- Lack of motivation
- Drug cravings
- Depression
- Panic
- Anxiety
- Trouble feeling pleasure (anhedonia)
- Drastic mood swings
The intensity of Klonopin withdrawal depends on many factors, including:
- Duration of Klonopin use.
- Amount of Klonopin taken.
- Frequency of Klonopin doses.
- Presence of other addictive substances.
- Underlying mental health conditions.
Klonopin withdrawal usually takes between 7 and 14 days. A tapered reduction in dosage can streamline the intensity of detox and minimize the intensity of Klonopin side effects during withdrawal.
Klonopin Withdrawal Timeline
Klonopin withdrawal typically occurs over the following phases:
- Early Klonopin withdrawal
- Acute Klonopin withdrawal
- Protracted Klonopin withdrawal
As a long-acting benzo with an elimination half-life of from 18 to 50 hours, withdrawal does not usually begin until 24 to 72 hours after the last use of Klonopin. This is the same time at which the effects of Klonopin wear off completely.
The first phase of early Klonopin withdrawal last for between two and four days. Rebound symptoms like insomnia and anxiety may manifest over the first few days of detox.
Those detoxing from Klonopin experience an acute withdrawal phase that begins around two weeks after discontinuing use of the medication. This phase may last for up to one month, according to SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). Most withdrawal symptoms occur at this point on the Klonopin withdrawal timeline.
If you experience protracted withdrawal from Klonopin, psychological symptoms and cravings may linger for months or even years after the last use of benzos.
All cases of Klonopin withdrawal are unique, and not everyone will undergo all three phases of withdrawal.
How to Deal with Klonopin Withdrawal
Detoxing from Klonopin at home can be uncomfortable and dangerous. The most effective method of detoxing is to follow a gradual tapering schedule with medical supervision.
While it may be tempting to suddenly stop using benzos at home, a tapered reduction schedule will mitigate the more uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. The longer the taper, the fewer and less intense the withdrawal symptoms that present.
Undergoing a supervised medical detox will help address the physical issue of benzo dependence, preparing you for ongoing treatment.
Klonopin Rehab at Renaissance Recovery
If you are addicted to Klonopin or any other another benzodiazepine, we can help you address the physical and psychological aspects of dependence and addiction here at Renaissance Recovery Center.
By withdrawing from Klonopin at a licensed medical detoxification center, you can streamline the intensity of detox. We can connect you with accredited facilities throughout Orange County and beyond.
When you are ready to engage with ongoing treatment for benzo addiction, choose from the following evidence-based programs at Renaissance:
- PHPs (partial hospitalization programs)
- IOPs (intensive outpatient programs)
- Virtual IOPs (remote rehab)
- Dual diagnosis treatment programs (for addictions and co-occurring mental health disorders)
Whatever treatment intensity is most appropriate for your needs, access a combination of
research-based and holistic therapies, including:
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Psychotherapy (CBT and DBT)
- Individual counseling
- Group counseling
- Family therapy
- Experiential adventure therapy
When you’re ready to move beyond Klonopin addiction, reach out to Renaissance for help with a tapered withdrawal, a clinical detox, and assistance from detox to discharge and beyond. Call 866.330.9449 for immediate assistance.
