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Did you know that nearly 5 million people report misusing benzodiazepines, such as Klonopin, each year?

Any time you use Klonopin outside of its recommended guidelines—such as by taking the medication more frequently, in higher doses, or in combination with other depressants—you significantly increase the risk of complications, including dependence. This is why it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s guidelines and check in with them often. However, you can still become dependent on the medication, even when taken as prescribed. 

Because anxiety is a common condition in Arizona—40% of adolescents and 40% of adults experienced poor mental health in 2021—Klonopin is commonly prescribed in our area. The problem is that many people are unaware of how quickly they can become dependent on the medication. Then, if they try to cut back or stop, they might experience uncomfortable Klonopin withdrawal symptoms like rebound anxiety and insomnia. 

As concerning as this is, there is help for people who are dependent on Klonopin. Wolf Creek Recovery treats Klonopin use disorder in a structured setting with plenty of support and access to evidence-based therapies. Let’s learn more about Klonopin withdrawals, the physical and psychological symptoms to expect, and how to make this process more manageable. 

Klonopin Withdrawals

Prescribed to treat anxiety disorders, panic attacks, and seizures, Klonopin (clonazepam) is a benzodiazepine that enhances sedation, muscle relaxation and other calming effects. It does this by enhancing the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. Even though Klonopin is effective at reducing anxiety, it has a high potential for physical and psychological dependence, even when used exactly as prescribed. If you are planning to reduce or stop your Klonopin dosage, talk to a medical provider, as you don’t want to do this without supervision. Tapering under medical guidance is the safest way to prevent serious complications. 

What Is Klonopin Withdrawal?

Klonopin withdrawal occurs when someone who has regularly used the medication stops taking it abruptly or significantly reduces their dose. Like other benzodiazepines, Klonopin changes brain chemistry, making the body more dependent on it over time. Therefore, when it’s suddenly discontinued, the body needs time to adjust, resulting in a number of withdrawal effects such as anxiety, panic attacks, tremors, insomnia, irritability, sweating, and muscle pain. Some of the symptoms can be severe, while others can linger for weeks or months. 

Causes of Klonopin Withdrawal: Why Do People Experience Symptoms?

Klonopin is typically prescribed to treat anxiety and panic attacks, as it calms nerve activity and reduces anxiety. However, over time, the brain can become accustomed to increased GABA activity, relying on Klonopin to maintain balance. If you suddenly stop taking the medication, there’s an immediate drop in GABA, causing the nervous system to be overstimulated. As a result, you may experience uncomfortable and even dangerous withdrawal symptoms. It’s also worth noting that withdrawal symptoms are usually related to the dosage taken, length of use, frequency of use, and individual factors like age and metabolism. 

The Biggest Dangers of Klonopin Withdrawal

Withdrawal from Klonopin can be dangerous and even life-threatening if not managed properly. One of the most serious dangers is the potential for seizures, which can cause permanent injury or death. Additionally, Klonopin withdrawal can lead to severe psychological distress, such as heightened anxiety, paranoia, depression, suicidal thoughts, and extreme mood swings. These risks are especially high for individuals who have used Klonopin regularly for extended periods or at higher doses. Fortunately, you can minimize the severity of these symptoms by undergoing withdrawal under the guidance of a medical professional. They will typically taper the dose slowly to give the body time to adjust. 

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Symptoms of Klonopin Withdrawals

There are many different withdrawal symptoms that can occur when stopping Klonopin. The good news is that many of these symptoms can be managed with medication and comfort care, which you can receive at a Klonopin rehab facility. Let’s look closer at the physical and psychological effects that you may experience while going through detox: 

Psychological Withdrawal Symptoms

  • Severe anxiety or panic attacks
  • Irritability or aggression
  • Depression or mood swings 
  • Insomnia or disrupted sleep 
  • Cognitive difficulties 
  • Paranoia 
  • Hallucinations 
  • Suicidal thoughts 

Physical Withdrawal Symptoms

  • Seizures 
  • Tremors or shaking 
  • Muscle cramps or spasms
  • Headaches
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Increased heart rate or palpitations 
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Fatigue or exhaustion 

Klonopin Withdrawal Timeline: What to Expect 

Even though each person is unique and follows their own recovery schedule, there is a general withdrawal timeline to expect. Understanding what this timeline looks like can help you prepare accordingly for each step of the process. 

Stage 1: Early Withdrawal (Days 1-3)

Symptoms typically appear within 1-3 days from the last dose. Since Klonopin has a long half-life of up to 50 hours, it can take time to feel the initial withdrawal symptoms. However, once they start, there’s no denying them. Common withdrawal symptoms in the early stage include increased anxiety or nervousness, restlessness or irritability, insomnia or sleep disruptions, mild tremors or sweating, and headaches and dizziness. The right medications and therapies can help keep you comfortable during this time. 

Stage 2: Acute Withdrawal (Days 4-14)

Withdrawal symptoms typically peak within the first 1-2 weeks after the last dose. Symptoms may include severe anxiety and panic attacks, insomnia, muscle cramps and pain, significant mood swings, gastrointestinal discomfort, seizures, and increased sensitivity to light, noise, or touch. While these can be some of the harder days to get through, it’s important to remember that you’re in the thick of things right now; it will get better. 

Stage 3: Sub-acute Withdrawal (Weeks 2-4) 

In the last stage, withdrawal symptoms begin to taper off as the body slowly adjusts to the absence of Klonopin. The most severe symptoms include anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, mood swings, irritability, depression, and cognitive fog. Keep in mind that not all of these symptoms will just disappear overnight. They will decrease at this point, but they may also linger for a period of time. 

Stage 4: Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (Months 1-6+)

Some individuals experience prolonged withdrawal symptoms, commonly known as PAWS. These symptoms might linger weeks for months after stopping Klonopin, and while they should decrease, they can still be bothersome. Common PAWS symptoms include anxiety, panic attacks, mild depression, emotional numbness, cognitive impairment, sleep disturbances, mood swings, and cravings. It’s also normal for these symptoms to come and go. 

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Get Help for Klonopin Use Disorder in Prescott, AZ 

Are you ready to seek help for a Klonopin use disorder? There are many ways that you can get effective help and support for you or your loved one. The first step is to start with a medical detox program where they gradually reduce your Klonopin dosage. You will be monitored during this time to watch for symptoms and ensure your comfort. There are medications to treat all types of complications, such as muscle pain, headaches, dehydration, and sleep. 

After detox, you’ll start a rehabilitation program that offers behavioral therapies like CBT and DBT, a supportive team of peers and mental health professionals, and medication management. Behavioral therapies help you understand the root causes of your Klonopin use, while also teaching you how to handle your emotions and cope with stress in healthier ways. Group therapy gives you a safe space to share your experiences, while MAT ensures the right medications are used to treat your symptoms. Recovering from Klonopin use disorder is a major achievement, and one that can start today, if you are ready. 

Wolf Creek Recovery has a comprehensive recovery program that treats substance use disorders using evidence-based therapies and holistic practices. We also have an outdoor therapy program that introduces individuals to an active lifestyle with activities like disc golf, softball, basketball, pickleball, and even canoeing, paddleboarding, and camping. Yes, recovery can be fun and enjoyable! To learn more about our approach to treating substance use disorders, contact Wolf Creek Recovery today at 833-732-8202. 

FAQs About Klonopin Withdrawal

What are Klonopin withdrawals? 

When a person is dependent on Klonopin and suddenly stops or reduces their dose, they can experience Klonopin withdrawals. Their brain and body need time to adjust to the absence of the medication, which is why a number of symptoms occur.

What are the most common Klonopin withdrawal symptoms?

The most common withdrawal symptoms for Klonopin are severe anxiety or panic attacks, irritability or mood swings, disrupted sleep, fatigue, muscle cramps, cognitive difficulties, and headaches. Seizures are the most concerning symptom, as they can lead to injuries or death without medical supervision. 

Is there a way to make Klonopin withdrawal easier? 

Yes, medical detox makes the process safer, easier, and more comfortable. There are a number of medications and therapies that can help treat withdrawal symptoms while also reducing cravings and adverse effects.