Clonazepam
Clonazepam, also known as Klonopin or K-pin, is a benzodiazepine drug that has anxiolytic, hypnotic, sedative, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant properties. This drug affects the central nervous system of the body, and is considered to be a long-acting benzodiazepine. This drug is often highly effective for the management of certain anxiety disorders, and if taken longer than four weeks, it can lead to serious withdrawal symptoms and dependence.When clonazepam is prescribed by a doctor and then abused, it is still drug abuse. This practice is on the rise, as people buy prescriptions of the drug for personal use. While many people start taking clonazepam to relieve anxiety symptoms, they continue to seek and use it to achieve the same level of relaxation. Benzodiazepine abuse is an increasing problem in the U.S., and it leads to job loss, poor scholastic performance, social isolation, and interpersonal relationship strain.
The Effects of Clonazepam
The effects are strengthened by alcohol consumption, and many people addicted to Klonopin often drink to enhance the effects. This could lead to overdose, coma, or death. When more than one substance is abused (poly-substance abuse) there are devastating consequences, such as physical dependence, psychological dependence, multi-organ failure, or accidental overdose. According to SAMHSA, a nationwide study of emergency departments found that sedative-hypnotics were one of the most frequently abused drugs that led to medical visits. Also, around 95 percent of benzodiazepine users are poly-substance abusers.
Dual Diagnosis
- Anxiety disorders
- Depressive disorders
- Stimulant abuse
- Panic disorder
- Poly-substance abuse
- Panic disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
Signs and Symptoms of Clonazepam Abuse
- Irritability
- Panic attacks
- Doctor shopping
- Obsessive drug-seeking behavior
- Lack of motivation
- Drowsiness
- Insomnia
- Restlessness
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Tachycardia
- Tolerance
Withdrawal Effects and Snorting
Many clonazepam abusers snort this drug after crushing a pill. This is done through the nose to achieve a bigger high. The effects of snorting benzodiazepines include erosion of the nasal lining and nose septum, slowed heart rate, cessation of breathing, chance of death related to overdosing, enhanced depressant effects when taken with alcohol.