What is klonopin?
Clonazepam is a generic form of Klonopin, a prescription drug commonly prescribed to manage panic attacks, seizure disorders, and anxiety. It is a benzodiazpine class of medication that increases the GABA (A) and reduces hyperactivity in the brain and CNS. It is also known as an anticonvulsant or epileptic drug, as it works by calming your brain and nerves.
What are some side effects of Klonopin?
It has some side effects, which are as follows:
Common side effects of Klonopin are as follows:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Tiredness
- Loss of coordination
- Increased saliva production
The common side effects should decrease with time, and it is advised that you inform your doctor if they persist or get worse, as your doctor may adjust the dose to manage the side effects.
The severe side effects include-
- Unusual changes in mood or thoughts
- Memory/ cognition problems
- depression
- Suicidal ideation
- Thoughts of harming oneself
The severe side effects of Clonazepam are unlikely, and it is advised that you inform your prescribing doctor and look for medical assistance in case of severe side effects.
A severe allergic reaction to Clonazepam is rarely noticed in patients; it is advised to seek immediate medical intervention if you notice symptoms like rashes, itching, swelling of the tongue, throat, or face, severe dizziness, and passing out.
How long does Klonopin stay in your system?
Klonopin has a long elimination half-life as it is a long-acting drug and belongs to the class of drugs called benzodiazpine. It is a long-acting drug that takes six to nine days to eliminate from the system.
The elimination half-life refers to how it takes half of a single drug dose to leave the body; its elimination half-life ranges from 30 to 40 hours. In addition, it will take one to two days for just 50% of Klonopin to leave your system. It takes around 5 – 6 half-lives for a drug to leave your body from the system completely.
What are the factors that influence how long Klonopin stays in your system?
On average, Klonopin takes six to nine days to leave the system, depending on the person using the drug. Here are some factors that may influence – how long its metabolites stay in your system
- Age
- Liver and Renal function
- Dosage ( strength of use)
- frequency of use
- Duration of use
- Use of other drugs
All these factors may influence the removal of the drug from the body; however, the drug’s half-life remains stable. Therefore, it is important to keep these points in mind as these variables can affect the removal of the drug from the system.
Hair: A hair follicle test can show Klonopin for up to 2 months as hair takes longer to grow.
Saliva- Tests can detect Klonopin in your saliva for up to 6 to 9 days
Blood – Blood tests can detect Klonopin in your bloodstream for up to two weeks ( 14 days)
How long does Klonopin take to peak?
The peak level of Klonopin is within one to four hours after taking the medication orally, and the speed of absorption will vary from person to person. The drug’s effect can last up to 12 hours as it is a long-acting benzodiazpine. In addition, it is not typically prescribed for short-term medication.
What are some withdrawal symptoms of Klonopin?
Here are some withdrawal symptoms of Klonopin, Someone who has taken regularly and if you
- Seizures
- Hallucination
- Stomach cramps
- Muscle cramps
- Shaking
- If you see any severe withdrawal symptoms seek immediate medical attention
What are some precautions of using of taking Klonopin?
Klonopin is safe to use, and it is FDA-approved medication; however, it may not be safe for you to take if you have any underlying health issues:
if you have Renal and Liver issues
if you have been diagnosed with Wide angle Narrow, angle glaucoma
If you have Myasthenia Gravis
Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to Klonopin or any inactive drug ingredient. Avoid alcohol and other products like cannabis that may increase the CNS depressant and cause severe dizziness and drowsiness.