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What Is the Abuse Potential Of Klonopin?

Klonopin, or Clonazepam, is used to treat both seizures and panic disorder. The medication produces a sedating sensation, easing symptoms of panic such as tension, hyperventilating, and general unease. The drug is recreationally used in several ways, including consumption by persons not prescribed to the drug, as well as snorting.

  1. About Klonopin

    • Even if properly used, Klonopin has a high addiction potential like any other drug in it's class, the benzodiazepines. These drugs include Xanax, Ativan, and Valium. As CNS (central nervous system) depressants, these drugs slow the central nervous system. Side effects include dizziness, tiredness, poor coordination and weakness.

    Proper Dosage

    • Mayo Clinic guidelines for dosage for seizure patients is a titration beginning with 0.5 mg three times daily in adults, teens, and children above the age of 10. The dose does not generally go above 20 mg per day. For younger children the doctor will have to measure a suitable dosage based on body weight. In panic disorder, adults are recommended to begin with 0.25 mg daily, with the potential to increase dosage up to as much as 4 mg. Children again must have a weight-based dosage schedule.

    Abuse with Other Drugs

    • The American Family Physician Journal refers to a study that shows that nearly 80 percent of Klonopin abuse is tied to abuse that includes other drugs. The majority of abuse is in tandem with drugs in the opioid class. The National Institute on Drug Abuse conducted a two-year treatment study that showed that nearly 15 percent of persons abusing heroin also abused Klonopin or other benzodiazepines each day for over one year.

    Potential Abuse

    • According to the American Family Physician Journal, "As potential drugs of abuse, short-acting benzodiazepines seem to be preferred among addicts because of the rapidity of their onset of action." Although Klonopin acts quickly, lipophilic benzodiazepines (which cross the blood-brain barrier most quickly) have a quicker onset and shorter half-life, and are more likely to be associated with abuse.

    Abuse

    • Klonopin is sometimes known by the street name "K-pin." Users compare the high to a drunk feeling. Users may eventually need to increase dosage to achieve the desired effect, risking overdose or potentially harmful side effects. Coma, impaired motor function, difficulty breathing, confusion, and nausea are all signs of overdose. Long-term users may experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, hallucinations, psychosis, and anger. Withdrawal in heavy users can be deadly and a medical detox is highly recommended.

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