Klonopin Drug Side Effects

People suffering from seizure disorders, such as those associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, may take the drug sold with the brand name Klonopin in the United States. MayoClinic.com also states the medicine, known by the generic name clonazepam, can help people with panic disorders. Klonopin classifies as a benzodiazepine, a type of agent that works directly in the central nervous system to slow it down. Benzodiazepines can cause addiction.

Flu-Like Syndrome

The side effect called flu-like syndrome may occur in people taking Klonopin, MayoClinic.com indicates. This may produce flu symptoms such as bodily weakness, chills, sneezing, sinus or lung congestion, a fever, a runny nose, a sore throat and a cough. The person’s ears may become congested as well. Any of these symptoms may occur individually as side effects, or combinations of them may occur. Flu-like symptoms, which classify as serious common side effects, while taking Klonopin require immediate medical attention, MayoClinic.com recommends.

Mental Difficulties

The use of the benzodiazepine called Klonopin can cause some serious side effects in the person’s mental faculties. He may, for example, become discouraged without cause. He may feel an emptiness or sadness he is not accustom to. He may appear irritable to those around him. The medication also may make it difficult for him to concentrate on even simple tasks. Taking Klonopin also can cause the person to fail to derive the normal level of pleasure from activities, and he may lose his interest in things that usually he finds stimulating. MayoClinic.com reports that any mental differences of this nature classify as serious problems and need attention from the doctor.

Balance Problems

Klonopin can cause some difficulties for the person to remain normally physically balanced. She may feel dizzy, as if the environment is spinning. She may have shakes or tremors in her body. She may not have her usual level of bodily coordination. She may walk unsteadily and may become suddenly clumsy. This may be compiled by an abnormal feeling of tiredness. MayoClinic.com states the person should consult her doctor immediately for any noticeable changes in coordination, bodily motion and balance.

Sexual Difficulties

MedlinePlus website indicates the use of Klonopin may cause the person to experience sexual problems. The medication may cause the person’s normal desire for sexual activities to change. The medicine also can cause the person to have his ability to perform sexually changes as well. These side effects classify as non-serious and should stop. People should seek a doctor’s advice if they do not.

References

Article reviewed by Allen Cone Last updated on: Apr 29, 2012

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