Clonazepam (Klonopin) – Uses, Side Effects, & Warnings

Updated February 28, 2025

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Clonazepam (Klonopin) – Uses, Side Effects, & Warnings

Klonopin is a branded version of clonazepam, a benzo used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. Like all drugs in this class, it can be effective when used short-term and as directed. However, misuse is likely to trigger dependence and addiction, as well as other negative outcomes.

This guide highlights the uses, side effects, and risks of this effective but potentially dangerous medication.

What Is Klonopin?

Used for treating panic and anxiety disorders, Klonopin is a branded form of clonazepam. It helps people feel calmer and more relaxed. It belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines [1], which help to calm the brain and nerves. Klonopin is often prescribed to treat anxiety, panic attacks, and certain types of seizures. By slowing down brain activity, Klonopin helps people feel more relaxed and less anxious. Use this medication exactly as prescribed by a doctor to avoid potential side effects and dependence or addiction.

Clonazepam

Clonazepam is the generic name for Klonopin. Generic medications contain the same active ingredient at lower cost than Clonazepam brand name tablets like Klonopin or Clonapine.

Clonazepam is a type of medication that affects the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. It works by increasing the effects of a natural chemical in the brain called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) [2]. GABA helps to calm down the nervous system, making you feel more relaxed and less anxious.

Klonopin Uses

Clonazepam uses include:

Treating seizures: Klonopin helps control seizures [3] in people with epilepsy. It reduces abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

Managing panic attacks: Klonopin is also used to help people who have panic attacks. It makes them feel less anxious and more in control.

Helping with anxiety: Clonazepam for anxiety helps people feel less worried and more relaxed.

Klonopin Dosage

Klonopin comes in different forms and strengths. You take these medicines by mouth. Here are the different types of clonazepam you might get:

Orally disintegrating tablets: These tablets dissolve in your mouth without water. They come in:

0.125mg

0.25mg

0.5mg

1mg

2mg

Oral tablets: These are tablets that you swallow with water. They come in:

0.5mg

1mg

2mg

Your doctor will tell you how much Klonopin to take. Usually, you start with a low dose and slowly increase it if needed, perhaps building up to 1mg Klonopin or 2mg Klonopin. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and never take more than prescribed. Taking too much can be harmful.

Clonazepam Brand Names

Clonazepam is sold under several different brand names. The most well-known brand name is Klonopin. Here are some examples of clonazepam brand names:

Klonopin: The most common brand name in the United States.

Rivotril: Often used in Europe and Canada.

Paxam: A brand name used in Australia.

Clonapine: Another brand name for clonazepam found in South America.

Always check the label on your medication to make sure you are taking the right brand. If you have any questions or concerns about the brand name of your medication, your doctor or pharmacist can help you.

Klonopin Drug Class

Klonopin belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines help to calm the brain and nerves. They are often used to treat anxiety, panic attacks, and seizures. These medicines work by increasing the effect of a chemical in the brain called GABA, which helps to relax the nervous system. Other medications in this group include Valium (diazepam [4]) and Ativan (lorazepam [5]).

How Should I Store Klonopin?

Store Klonopin in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Keep it in the original container with the lid closed. Ensure it’s out of reach of kids and pets. Do not store Klonopin in the bathroom, as moisture can damage the medication. If you have any unused or expired Klonopin, ask your pharmacist how to dispose of it safely. Never share your medication with others.

Klonopin Side Effects

Taking Klonopin can help many people, but it can also cause side effects. Knowing what to expect can help you stay safe and comfortable while taking this medication.

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Clonazepam?

While Clonazepam can be an incredibly useful drug when prescribed by a medical professional and used properly, there are side effects that can be common among those who use it.

Understanding these side effects can help users make informed decisions about their treatment and know when to seek medical advice. Whether you are just starting Klonopin or have been using it for some time, it’s important to monitor how you feel and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

Below, we explore the most common side effects, the potential long-term impacts, and the serious reactions that may occur with Klonopin use.

Common Side Effects

Here are some common clonazepam side effects:

Drowsiness: You might feel very sleepy or tired.

Dizziness: You could feel lightheaded or like you might faint.

Coordination problems: It might be harder to walk or do things that need balance.

Muscle weakness: Your muscles might feel weak or tired.

Memory problems: You might find it hard to remember things.

Dry mouth: Your mouth might feel dry and uncomfortable.

Increased saliva: Sometimes, you might have more saliva than usual.

Runny nose: You could get a runny or stuffy nose.

These side effects usually go away as your body gets used to the medication. If they do not go away or bother you, talk to your doctor.

Long-Term Side Effects

Taking Klonopin for a long time can lead to some long-term side effects:

Tolerance: Your body might get used to the medication, and it might not work as well as it did before.

Dependence: You might feel like you need to take Klonopin all the time. If you stop taking it suddenly, you could have withdrawal symptoms [6] like anxiety, trouble sleeping, or shaking.

Memory and thinking problems: Using Klonopin for a long time might make it harder to think clearly or remember things.

If you are taking Klonopin for a long time, your doctor will monitor you closely to make sure you are safe.

Serious Reactions

While rare, some side effects of Klonopin are serious and need immediate medical attention. These include:

Allergic reactions: Signs include itching, rash, swelling, trouble breathing, or severe dizziness.

Severe drowsiness or confusion: Feeling extremely sleepy or confused can be dangerous.

Depression or suicidal thoughts: Some people might feel sad or have thoughts about hurting themselves.

Severe muscle weakness: If you cannot move your muscles or feel very weak, seek help right away.

Breathing problems: Difficulty breathing or slow breathing is very serious and needs immediate attention.

If you experience any of these serious reactions, call your doctor or get emergency medical help right away.

Warnings of Taking Clonazepam (Klonopin)

Taking Klonopin can be helpful, but it’s important to know the warnings and follow your doctor’s instructions. Klonopin can be habit-forming, and it should be taken exactly as prescribed. Misusing Klonopin can lead to dependence, overdose, and serious side effects. Always talk to your doctor before making any changes to your medication.

What Not to Take With Clonazepam

Some medications and substances should not be taken with clonazepam because they can cause dangerous interactions. Here are some things to avoid:

Alcohol: Drinking alcohol while taking Klonopin can increase drowsiness and dizziness. It can also slow your breathing, which can be very dangerous.

Other sedatives: Taking other sedatives or sleeping pills with Klonopin can increase the sedative effects and make you very sleepy or slow your breathing.

Certain medications: Some medications, like certain painkillers, antidepressants, and antihistamines, can interact with Klonopin. Tell your doctor about the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Interactions

Klonopin can interact with other medications, which can affect how it works or increase the risk of side effects. Here are some examples:

Painkillers: Opioid painkillers can increase the risk of severe drowsiness, breathing problems, and overdose.

Antidepressants: Some antidepressants can increase the sedative effects of Klonopin, making you very sleepy.

Antihistamines: Medications for allergies or colds can increase drowsiness when taken with Klonopin.

Always inform your doctor about the medications you are taking to avoid dangerous interactions.

Overdose

Taking too much Klonopin can be dangerous and can lead to an overdose. An overdose happens when you take more medication than your body can handle. Here are the signs of an overdose:

Extreme drowsiness: You might feel very sleepy and have trouble staying awake.

Confusion: You could feel very confused and not know where you are or what is happening.

Slow or difficult breathing: Your breathing might slow down a lot or become very hard.

Loss of balance: You might find it hard to walk or stand up straight.

Loss of consciousness: You might faint or pass out and not be able to wake up.

If you think someone has taken too much Klonopin, get help right away. Here’s what to do:

Call 911: If someone is having trouble breathing, is very sleepy, or has passed out, call 911 immediately.

Stay with the person: Keep the person awake and sitting up if possible. If they are lying down, turn them on their side to prevent choking.

Provide information: When help arrives, tell them what medication was taken and how much, if you know.

An overdose of Klonopin can be life-threatening, so act quickly.

Missed Dose

Take any missed dose of this medication as soon as possible (unless it’s nearly time for the next dose). Don’t take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose. This can increase the risk of side effects.

Addiction Risk

Klonopin can be very helpful for treating anxiety and panic attacks, but it can also be addictive. Addiction means that you feel like you need to take the medication all the time, even if it’s causing problems. Here are some signs that you might be addicted to Klonopin [7]:

Craving the medication: You might think about Klonopin a lot and feel like you need to take it, even when you don’t need it for medical reasons.

Taking more than prescribed: You might take higher doses or more frequent doses than your doctor told you to.

Withdrawal symptoms: When you don’t take Klonopin, you might feel very anxious, shaky, or have trouble sleeping. These are signs that your body has become used to the medication.

Ignoring problems: Even if Klonopin is causing problems in your life, like trouble at work or with friends and family, you might keep taking it.

If you think you might be addicted to Klonopin, talk to your doctor. Here’s how they can help:

Gradual reduction: Your doctor can help you slowly reduce the amount of Klonopin you take. Stopping suddenly can be dangerous and cause withdrawal symptoms.

Alternative treatments: Your doctor might suggest other medications or therapies that can help with your anxiety or panic attacks without the risk of addiction.

Support: There are support groups and counselors who can help you understand your addiction and find ways to cope without relying on Klonopin.

Addiction to Klonopin is a serious issue, but with the right help, you can manage it and find other ways to feel better. Always use Klonopin exactly as prescribed by your doctor and never take more than recommended. If you have any concerns about your medication, talk to your doctor. They are there to help you stay safe and healthy.

For immediate help finding treatment for prescription drug addiction, call our addiction recovery experts at 844-576-0144.

Clonazepam (Klonopin) | FAQs

What is clonazepam?

Clonazepam is a medication that belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines. It helps to calm the brain and nerves.

What is clonazepam prescribed for?

Clonazepam is prescribed to treat seizure disorders and panic attacks. It works by calming abnormal brain activity.

What is Klonopin used for most often?

Klonopin, a brand name for clonazepam, is most often used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It helps reduce anxiety by calming the brain.

Get Compassionate Drug Addiction Treatment at a Renowned Facility—Contact Gratitude Lodge

If you have been abusing benzos like Klonopin, we can help you get back on track at Gratitude Lodge. We have luxury rehabs in Long Beach and Newport Beach and we are happy to accept health insurance for addiction treatment.

We offer a supervised detox program to help people detox from drugs like benzos with access to continuous care and medications. After a tapered reduction in benzo dosage – from clonazepam 2mg to clonazepam 1mg and down to no benzos at all – you can move directly into ongoing treatment.

All benzo addictions are different, so you’ll get personalized treatment that may include: