Klonopin or clonazepam is a brand name of a medication that is commonly prescribed to alleviate anxiety, panic disorders, and some forms of seizures. Yet, due to the long-term action and dependency caused by it, lots of people ask themselves: How long does Klonopin remain in your system? Knowing its effects, half-life and withdrawal dangers can make you or a loved one do the right things to safe use and recovery.
Klonopin falls under a group of medications known as benzodiazepines which are central nervous system acting drugs that achieve a sedative effect. The mechanism of action is by increasing the actions of GABA (gender-aminebutyric acid) -a neurotransmitter that slows down the activities of the brain hence assists in relieving tension and anxiety.
Klonopin is usually prescribed by physicians to treat:
Panic attacks and anxiety disorder.
Epileptic seizure disorder.
Insomnia or muscle spasms (off-label)
Although it is applicable in short term relief, long term use of Klonopin may cause tolerance, dependence and addiction, more so when not under medical supervision.
Klonopin may have side effects as any other drug. Common side effects include:
Drowsiness or fatigue
Light headedness and lack of coordination.
Memory issues or confusion
Blurred vision
Slurred speech
In some extreme cases, it may result in depression, inability to breathe, or suicide. Continuous use of Klonopin with alcohol or opioids greatly enhances chances of overdosing and death.
A euphoric dose of Klonopin may be fatal. The overdose symptoms include:
Extreme drowsiness
Slow or shallow breathing
Unconsciousness
Loss of coordination
In case of overdose, consult a doctor. The supportive treatment and administration of flumazenil, an anti-benzodiazepine medication, can be part of emergency treatment.
Klonopin is normally administered orally as a tablet, with a dosage of 0.25 mg up to 2mg depending on the ailment under treatment. Since it has a long half-life, Klonopin stays in the body longer - that is the reason as to why it is generally used once or twice a day. Nonetheless, excess intake of more than the recommended frequency or dosage of prescribed drugs would result in dependence very easily.
The half-life of Klonopin ranges between 30 to 40 hours that is it may take several days to help the body get rid of a single dose of Klonopin. Normal 5-14 days of average time to be out of system, which depends on:
Dosage and frequency of use
Age and metabolism
Liver function
Mass and hydration of the body.
The Klonopin drug can be detected by drug tests in the following durations:
Urine test: Up to 30 days
Blood test: 1–4 days
Saliva test: 5–6 days
Hair test: Up to 90 days
The psychological dependence may linger on after physical effects have vanished, so the assistance of a professional is essential.
Sudden discontinuation of Klonopin may result in severe withdrawal symptoms that include:
Anxiety and panic attacks
Tremors or muscle pain
Insomnia
Seizures
Irritability or mood swings
Due to these risks medical detox is advisable. The effective withdrawal of the dosage through gradual tapering under medical guidance can be useful in managing the withdrawal outcomes.
In case you or a loved one is in need of Klonopin dependence or addiction, then you can seek professional help to restore sanity and stabilize. In Palm Coast Treatment Solutions, we offer evidence-based care in benzodiazepine addiction and it includes:
Medically supervised detox
Root-cause therapy and counseling.
Long-term support and relapse prevention.
You do not have to go through recovery by yourself. You can contact Palm Coast Treatment Solutions and start your path on a way to permanent recovery today and call (386) 284-415.