Klonopin is the brand name for clonazepam, a prescription medication that is used alone or in combination with other drugs to treat various types of epileptic seizure disorders as well as panic disorders. Clonazepam belongs to a classification of medications known as benzodiazepines, which are drugs that slow down the central nervous system by decreasing abnormal electrical activity in the brain associated with seizures or anxiety and panic attacks.
Common Effects
During clinical trials of this medication, several side effects frequently were reported. Specifically, the most commonly experienced side effect that occurred in up to 50 percent of participants during the trials was drowsiness. Problems with coordination--up to 30 percent--and behavior--up to 25 percent--also were commonly reported. In addition, up to 12 percent of participants in the trials reported experiencing lightheadedness or dizziness in association with taking this drug. These effects are not considered severe enough to warrant treatment.
Depression
A more serious side effect of this medication is depression. This consequence is documented in research by Roche Pharmaceutical, the manufacturers of this medication. This company reports that 7 percent of clinical trial participants experienced an onset of depression while on Klonopin; also, 4 percent experienced a depressive episode after their drug therapy ended. Medic8.com warns that suddenly stopping use of this drug can cause major and possibly fatal symptoms. Thus, one is strongly advised not to change the dosage of or abruptly stop taking Klonopin without first discussing it with the prescribing physician.
Suicide and Disinhibition
The National Library of Medicine warns that anti-seizure drugs including Klonopin increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior. Analyses of data from 199 placebo-controlled clinical trials involving anti-epileptic drugs, including Klonopin, showed that participants in the experimental group had approximately twice the risk of suicidal thinking or behavior as did placebo participants. Relevant here, also, is the dramatic effect of paradoxical disinhibition where extreme changes in emotions and behaviors occur such as excitability, aggression, hostility and impulsivity. This is a benzodiazepine hyper-reactive effect where manifestations are opposite of what is expected based on the indications for drug usage; and, the neural mechanisms of self-regulation or inhibition are disrupted, which magnifies even moreso the extreme changes. Therefore, it is important that individuals on this medication are monitored for changes in mood and behavior.
Addiction
Klonopin use has the potential to lead to psychological dependence and physical addiction. Tolerance also can occur, which means that, over time, more of the drug will be needed to produce the same effect. Individuals taking this medication for an extended period of time are at the highest risk of developing dependence and addiction. Thus, individuals with histories of substance abuse will need to be monitored closely if prescribed this drug.
