Klonopin Detox, Side Effects, Withdrawal, & Treatment

Seeking Drug Detox New Jersey? Get real facts about Klonopin Detox treatment at your local Detox Center in New Jersey.


What is Klonopin?

High-potency benzodiazepines, such as clonazepam (Klonopin), commonly treat panic disorder (PD) because of their prompt onset of action and good tolerability.  However, there is concern about their potential to cause withdrawal symptoms. Klonopin detox at a medically supervised facility can lessen the severity of the symptoms and make the withdrawal process significantly more accessible and more comfortable to endure.

Clonazepam, alone or in combination with other psychoactive substances, can lead to distressing effects on health, such as motor and cognitive impairment, sleep disorders, and aggravation of mood and anxiety disorders. Prolonged use of clonazepam may lead to physical dependence and tolerance.  There is, therefore, a need to find safer therapeutic alternatives for treating seizures and anxiety disorders.  

Greater awareness of its frequent nonmedical use is also needed to achieve a safer overall benefit of this medication.  [1]

Klonopin is the brand name of clonazepam.  Clonazepam is used alone or in combination with other medications to control certain types of seizures.  It is also used to relieve panic attacks or sudden, unexpected extreme fear attacks and worry about them.  

The drug works by decreasing abnormal electrical activity in the brain as well.

Health Risks of Benzodiazepine

In 2019, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 16 percent of overdose deaths involving opioids also involved benzodiazepines, a type of prescription sedative commonly prescribed for anxiety or to help with insomnia.  Benzodiazepines (sometimes called “benzos”) work to calm or sedate a person by raising the level of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA in the brain.  Common benzodiazepines include diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), and clonazepam (Klonopin), among others.

Every day, more than 136 Americans die after overdosing on opioids.  However, between 1996 and 2013, the number of adults who filled a benzodiazepine prescription increased by 67%, from 8.1 million to 13.5 million. The quantity obtained also increased from 1.1 kg to 3.6 kg lorazepam-equivalents per 100,000 adults. Combining opioids and benzodiazepines can be unsafe because both types of sedate drug users suppress breathing—the cause of overdose fatality—in addition to impairing cognitive functions.

Unfortunately, many people have prescribed both drugs together.  In a study of over 300,000 continuously insured patients receiving opioid prescriptions between 2001 and 2013, the percentage of persons prescribed benzodiazepines rose to 17 percent in 2013 from nine percent in 2001.  The study showed that people using both drugs are at higher risk of visiting the emergency department or being admitted to a hospital for a drug-related emergency.

Limitations and Warnings 

In 2016, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published new guidelines for prescribing opioids, including Klonopin. They advise that clinicians avoid prescribing benzodiazepines concurrently with opioids whenever reasonable.

Both prescription opioids and benzodiazepines now carry FDA “black box” warnings on the label highlighting the dangers of using these drugs together.  People being prescribed any medications should inform their doctors about all the other drugs and medications they use.  Patients should discuss the potential dangers of using various drugs and substances with their doctors, including alcohol.  [2]

Ask Dr. Al: How To Overcome Klonopin Withdrawal? A Patient Recovery Story

Overcoming Klonopin withdrawal can be a challenging process, as this medication can lead to physical and psychological dependence. The first step is to consult a healthcare professional who can provide guidance and create a tapering schedule to reduce the dose, minimizing withdrawal symptoms gradually.

Support from friends and family is crucial during this period, as emotional support can help you through the process. Additionally, adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can assist in managing withdrawal symptoms. Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can also be beneficial for controlling the anxiety and restlessness that often accompany Klonopin withdrawal. Ultimately, seeking professional help and adhering to a structured plan is essential for safely and successfully overcoming Klonopin withdrawal.

Klonopin Detox Recovery Story Inspired By True Events

Dr. Al and the We Level Up Klonopin detox treatment team played a pivotal role in helping his patient, who we will call Jane Doe, recover from a challenging Klonopin addiction. Jane Doe had been using the medication for anxiety, but over time, her dependence had spiraled into addiction. Dr. Al and his team began by conducting a thorough assessment of Jane Doe’s medical history and the extent of her addiction. They created a tailored treatment plan that included a gradual tapering of Klonopin to minimize withdrawal symptoms and potential dangers.

Throughout the process, Dr. Al and the We Level Up team provided unwavering support and monitored Jane Doe’s progress closely. They recommended therapy to address the underlying issues contributing to her anxiety and addiction. Jane Doe also joined a support group to connect with others facing similar struggles.

Dr. Al and We Level Up’s compassionate and holistic approach, combined with Jane Doe’s determination, proved successful. Over time, she learned healthier coping strategies and gradually reduced her reliance on Klonopin. Dr. Al’s dedication, medical expertise, and commitment to Jane Doe’s well-being were instrumental in her recovery, ultimately helping her break free from Klonopin addiction and regain control of her life.

Introducing Dr. Al: A Specialist in Addiction Studies and Mental Health Disorders.

With over 15 years of expertise in behavioral health, Dr. Al has dedicated his career to transforming lives. He, his team, plus the We Level Up treatment center network have successfully guided countless patients through the most daunting obstacles they have ever encountered. Join Dr. Al and We Level Up on a journey toward healing and triumph. Learn more about Dr. Al here.

Klonopin Drug Facts

What is Klonopin?

Klonopin, a benzodiazepine, is available as scored tablets with a K-shaped perforation containing 0.5 mg of clonazepam and unscored tablets with a K-shaped perforation containing 1 mg or 2 mg of clonazepam.

Each tablet also contains lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose and corn starch, with the following colorants: 0.5 mg—FD&C Yellow No. 6 Lake; 1 mg—FD&C Blue No. 1 Lake and FD&C Blue No. 2 Lake. 

Chemically, clonazepam is 5-(2-chlorophenyl)-1,3-dihydro-7-nitro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one. It is a light yellow crystalline powder. It has a molecular weight of 315.72

Clinical Pharmacology of Klonopin

The precise mechanism by which clonazepam exerts its antiseizure and antipanic effects is unknown, although it is believed to be related to its ability to enhance the activity of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.

Generic Name: Clonazepam
Drug Class: Benzodiazepines
Strret Names:
 K-Cuts. K-Pins. Super Valium. Pins

Benzodiazepines Drug Fact Sheet Publicly Made Available by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for Drug Addiction Awareness

Klonopin Addiction Statistics

The misuse of prescription substances, including benzodiazepines, has been on the rise in the United States in recent years. Hospital visits and overdose deaths related to these drugs have also been increasing. Klonopin addiction can easily become fatal, and these kinds of fatalities are on the rise. It is estimated that 30% of all drug overdoses are linked to benzo abuse, with those overdose deaths quadrupling from 2002 to 2016.


75K + people

Over 75,000 individuals were admitted to the emergency room in 2011 due to complications caused by Klonopin.

Source: NIDA

60 K users in rehab

There were approximately 60,000 admissions to treatment centers in 2008 for addiction to Benzodiazepines such as Klonopin.

Source: NCBI

15 %

Fifteen percent of Americans have a bottle of some type of Benzodiazepine in their medicine cabinet.

Source: NIH


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Klonopin Detox Benefits

Detox at home is can be harmful, considering the risk of Klonopin withdrawal.
Detox at home is can be harmful, considering the risk of Klonopin withdrawal.

You can become physically and psychologically dependent on and develop a substance use disorder to drugs like Klonopin.  Dependence means that your body has become customary to the presence of the drug, and you need to keep using it to feel normal and to prevent Klonopin detox withdrawal symptoms.

Over time, you can also build up a tolerance, demanding more substance to achieve the same effects. [2]

As the first step in the treatment process, detox helps you discontinue using Klonopin as safely as possible. Then, as your body clears the substance, a supervised detox program can help you manage the physical and psychological symptoms of Klonopin detox withdrawal.

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Klonopin Detox

During detoxification, you have medical care and other supportive interventions that help you remain as comfortable and safe as possible.  At the same time, your body rids itself of the last traces of any recently used intoxicating substances.

Detox Consists of 3 Main Segments

  • Evaluation:  You receive a thorough assessment, which includes screening for any co-occurring medical, such as dual diagnosis, physical health issues, examining your overall health, and a screening for any drugs being used before admission.  The evaluation helps to establish the most appropriate level of care for you.
  • Stabilization:   The second phase of the detox process is the actual detox.  In most cases, you have assistance and support with medical supervision as your body withdraws from the drug.  In addition, you may receive medications to help reduce any withdrawal symptoms.
  • Treatment:  Furthering approach into treatment.  Detox is not a form of therapy, so you will need to begin an inpatient treatment program once you have successfully detoxed.  This is to guarantee your best chances of sobriety.  Detox center’s expert team will help you find the best level of care program and support you in making a steady transition into the next stage of your recovery.

Klonopin Detox Withdrawal Timeline

Days 1-3 – The first signs of Klonopin detox withdrawal appear one to three days after the last dose. Mild anxiety and other mood changes start becoming noticeable. It may also be harder to fall asleep or get a full night’s rest.

Days 7-14 – Withdrawal symptoms from Klonopin detox start to peak in one to two weeks from the last dose. Anxiety and irritability are typical during this time. Also, those who quit cold turkey may experience intense body tremors, hallucinations, or seizures.

Weeks 3-4 – Klonopin detox withdrawal symptoms start to fade in three to four weeks. It is still common to have symptoms like anxiety during this time. Some days may be harder than others, but the worst of Withdrawal is usually over at this point.

Months 2+ – Mild withdrawal symptoms are still possible up to three months after quitting Klonopin. Also, those with severe addictions are most likely to continue having noticeable symptoms. Tapering down a user’s Klonopin dose can prevent prolonged symptoms.

As the first step in the recovery process, Klonopin detox helps the person quit using the drug as safely as possible. In addition, as the body clears the substance, a supervised detox program can help better manage the physical and psychological consequences of Klonopin detox withdrawal.

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Klonopin Detox & Withdrawal Symptoms

Risks and complications can happen during the Klonopin withdrawal period.  Some of these symptoms can be severe and may include:

  • Seizures
  • Severe Anxiety
  • Increased Heart Rate
  • Increased Blood Pressure

An intense withdrawal syndrome is similar to that observed during severe alcohol withdrawal.  Known as delirium tremens, Klonopin withdrawal symptoms may include profound confusion, disorientation, hallucinations, agitation, and seizures. [3]

Risks of Klonopin Detox At Home

Detox at home is not usually advised and can even be harmful because of the risks associated with Klonopin withdrawal.  For instance, if you develop withdrawal complications such as seizures, depression, anxiety, or other significant mental health symptoms;  you won’t have immediate access to urgent medical care.

In addition, if you feel helpless to tolerate withdrawal symptoms, you may relapse;  which only continues the cycle of addiction.

Given that, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recommends medical detox for people undergoing withdrawal from drugs such as Klonopin.

What to Expect During Klonopin Detox

Withdrawal looks different for everyone. However, Klonopin has several commonly encountered withdrawal symptoms, including:

  • Nausea or Vomiting
  • An increase in sweating or pulse rate
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Hand Tremors (Shakes)
  • Visual, Tactile, or Auditory Hallucinations
  • Unintended and purposeless movements, such as fidgeting or pacing
  • Grand mal Seizures

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Medically Assisted Detox and Withdrawal

Medical detox is the safest method for managing withdrawal with several drugs, including benzodiazepines such as Klonopin.  When you encounter detox in a treatment center or hospital, you will receive:

  • Medical Supervision and Care
  • Medications to Approach Withdrawal Symptoms
  • Manage any co-occurring physical or mental health symptoms
  • Minimize the risk of certain withdrawal complications such as seizures

During detox from Klonopin, dose tapering can make withdrawal symptoms more endurable.  Under a doctor’s supervision, you receive a gradual decline in the Klonopin dose over several weeks or even several months.  In some instances, you may be given an equivalent dose of another long-acting benzodiazepine, such as diazepam (Valium), as a substitute medication to start the tapering process.

We Level Up New Jersey Treatment Center 

Treatment programs for opioid addiction, including benzo drugs such as Klonopin, usually start with detoxification, followed by either inpatient treatment or some specified procedure of organized outpatient treatment (partial hospitalization or concentrated outpatient programs).

Only a finely managed treatment facility provides a controlled and comfortable setting where drug detox can occur;  while providing Klonopin withdrawal support and medications to help decrease the possibility of complications and difficulties.

If you or a loved one is dealing with dependence or addiction to opioids like Klonopin, contact our treatment support at We Level Up New Jersey to find the best treatment option and Klonopin detox for you.

Our facilities also offer multiple levels of treatment for an easy transition following the completion of a drug detox program.
Our facilities also offer multiple levels of treatment for an easy transition following the completion of a drug detox program.

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Sources: 

[1-2] Clonazepam: Indications, Side Effects, and Potential for Nonmedical Use – National Library of Medicine
[3] Benzodiazepines and Opioids – National Institute on Drug Abuse
[4] What Is a Substance Use Disorder? – American Psychiatric Association. (2017)
[5] Addiction: Part I. Benzodiazepines—Side Effects, Abuse Risk and Alternatives – American Family Physician

American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition. Washington, DC, American Psychiatric Association, 2015.

U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2010). Clonazepam. Retrieved on September 9, 2015 from: https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682279.html

The Coleman Institute. (2015). Rapid Benzodiazepine Detoxification FAQ. Retrieved on September 9, 2015 from: http://www.thecolemaninstitute.com/rapid-benzodiazepine-detoxification-faq

McMillan, Kelley. Vogue. (2014). The Truth About Prescription Pills: One Writer’s Story of Anxiety and Addiction. Retrieved on September 9, 2015 from: http://www.vogue.com/865132/prescription-pill-addiction-drug-abuse/

Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology. (2010). Tapering Clonazepam in Patients With Panic Disorder After at Least 3 Years of Treatment. Retrieved on September 9, 2015 from: http://journals.lww.com/psychopharmacology/Abstract/2010/06000/Tapering_Clonazepam_in_Patients_With_Panic.12.aspx