Klonopin (Clonazepam) Detox, Treatment & Rehab
Overview
Klonopin (clonazepam) is part of the family of benzodiazepines and prescribed to treat anxiety, panic disorder, and seizures. The drug works by enhancing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, creating sedative effects.
If you or someone you care about struggles with dependence on Klonopin or another substance, Guardian Recovery can help. We will work with you to develop an individualized and effective program to help you recover from addiction and get you on the road to long-term recovery. We believe in the benefits of a full curriculum of clinical care, beginning with medical detoxification, transitioning into a higher level of treatment, and concluding with personalized aftercare planning.
Why Is Klonopin Potentially Addictive to Users?
The pleasurable sense of calm, relaxation, and anxiety relief make Klonopin a target for illicit use. But this euphoria along with its long half-life can lead to addiction, overdose or death.
A long half-life means a single dose lingers a long time in the body, and may lead to you taking another dose while medication is still in your body. Klonopin influences the central nervous system in a way that slows down the respiratory system and heart rate.
Symptoms of Klonopin addiction include:
– Taking larger doses or using the drug longer than prescribed
– Not being able to cut down on or stop using
– Becoming obsessed with finding, using, or recovering from Klonopin use
– Cravings
– Not being able to meet family, work, or school obligations
– Difficulty getting along with others
– Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
– Risk taking, especially in order to use
– Physical or emotional problems
– Building up a tolerance to Klonopin or feeling withdrawal symptoms when you stop using or reduce dosage
Signs & Symptoms of Klonopin & Benzodiazepine Dependence
If you try to stop using Klonopin or reduce your dosage, you will experience withdrawal symptoms as your body struggles to adjust. Withdrawal may trigger the condition the medication treated and cause other symptoms like:
– Insomnia or sleeplessness
– Hallucinations
– Increased body temperature
– Mood changes
– Irritability
– Nausea and/or vomiting
– Anxiety or panic attacks
– Seizures
– Sweating
– Increased pulse rate
– Hand tremors, uncontrollable shaking, and trouble with coordination
Can You Become Addicted to Klonopin When Taking as Prescribed?
Klonopin is classified by the DEA as a Schedule IV controlled substance. Schedule IV drugs have a lower potential for abuse compared to substances like codeine or buprenorphine but can still be addictive. In fact, it is possible to become addicted to Klonopin by taking only the amount prescribed by your doctor because it has a relatively long half-life, which means it lingers in the body for a long time.
Can You Detox From Klonopin Dependence on Your Own?
Detoxing from Klonopin without professional help can be dangerous. Some symptoms include seizures, anxiety, and increased blood pressure and heart rate. You may even experience acute withdrawal syndrome similar to those that take place during severe alcohol withdrawal known as delirium tremens including profound confusion, disorientation, hallucinations, agitation, and seizures.
Klonopin Addiction Detox & Rehab Process
The rehab process begins with an assessment, where a healthcare professional will determine the severity of your addiction and any co-occurring medical or mental health conditions. Additional steps include detoxification, inpatient or outpatient treatment, behavioral therapy or counseling, support groups, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and aftercare.
Medications Used During Treatment
Tapering Tapering is the process of gradually reducing the dosage of the medication to prevent the body from going into shock. Often, tapering needs to continue even when a client enters an inpatient drug rehab program.
Medication-Assisted Treatment Depending upon your symptoms, you may receive: antidepressants to relieve anxiety, anticonvulsants if you have seizures, beta-blockers to ease symptoms like tremors, medication to control your blood pressure, and medication to treat nausea and vomiting.
Medical Detox for Klonopin Misuse or Overdose
The safest way to detox from Klonopin is at a licensed rehabilitation center, like Guardian Recovery, that offers medical supervision and support.
Klonopin Withdrawal Timeline
Early Withdrawal Symptoms (within 14 days): Anxiety and restlessness, insomnia and sleep disturbances, irritability and agitation, tremors and shaking, sweating and increased heart rate, increased sensitivity to light and sound, poor concentration and memory difficulties.
Acute Withdrawal Symptoms (514 days): Heightened anxiety and panic attacks, increased irritability and agitation, profuse sweating and tremors, gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), headaches and muscle pain, sensory disturbances, cognitive difficulties (confusion, memory impairment).
Extended Withdrawal Symptoms (can persist for weeks to months): Lingering anxiety and mood swings, sleep disturbances and insomnia, persistent fatigue and low energy levels, difficulty with concentration and memory, depression and feelings of hopelessness, sensory disturbances, cravings.
How Long Are Klonopin Detox & Addiction Treatment Programs?
Most detox and addiction treatment programs run from 30 to 45 days, but the time you spend will depend upon your situation. It’s also important to remember that remaining engaged with your recovery community will increase your chances of long-term sobriety.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment & Co-Occurring Disorders
A dual diagnosis refers to the simultaneous occurrence of a mental disorder and a substance abuse issue in an individual. Approximately half of those diagnosed with a mental disorder also experience a substance use disorder at some point. Addressing a dual diagnosis requires comprehensive treatment of both disorders, including behavioral therapies, medication, and support groups.
Rehab Programs & Options for Klonopin Addiction
- Inpatient Rehabilitation Immersive therapeutic environment with around-the-clock professional care, typically spanning approximately 30 days.
- Outpatient Rehabilitation Remain at home while attending therapy sessions several times a week.
- Partial Hospitalization Program Comprehensive schedule of activities five or six days a week while living in a sober or private home.
- Intensive Outpatient Program Treatment sessions lasting several hours, three to five days a week.
- Virtual and Online Treatment Remote therapy sessions eliminating the need for travel.