A common question for those who take benzodiazepines is, “Can you overdose on Klonopin?” In recent years, more people are using benzodiazepines like Klonopin for recreational purposes. While it’s true that it’s helpful for treating anxiety and panic attacks, Klonopin is one of the most dangerous drugs to abuse.

About Klonopin

Klonopin is a brand name for clonazepam, which is a type of benzodiazepine. Doctors prescribe this Schedule IV drug primarily to treat seizures, but it’s also helpful in treating severe panic attacks. Despite the fact that Klonopin requires a prescription, it has become one of the most commonly abused drugs in the country.

Like many benzodiazepines, Klonopin generates calmness and euphoria. It also reduces anxiety and decreases physical tension. Although side effects include drowsiness and fatigue, some users report that fighting off sleep intensifies the high.

Can You Overdose on Klonopin?

The trouble with drugs like Klonopin is that it’s easy to build up a tolerance. It’s so dangerous, in fact, that many medical professionals don’t recommend quitting cold turkey. The body essentially goes into shock without it, which leads to harsh withdrawal symptoms. Fearing the possibility of withdrawal, many users opt for the softer, easier path: continued use.

As a user’s tolerance rises, the brain gets better at tricking the body. In turn, it takes increasingly larger doses and frequency to achieve the same effect. At a certain point, the brain stops telling the body that it’s had enough.

So, in answer to can you overdose on Klonopin—unfortunately, yes. In fact, benzodiazepines like Klonopin accounted for 35% of all drug-related emergency room visits in 2009. While lethal Klonopin doses aren’t common, poly substance abuse—particularly with alcohol—makes it easier for individuals to slip into a coma when taking high doses.

Getting Help Before a Klonopin Overdose

Individuals can eliminate the possibility of a Klonopin overdose before it happens. Benzodiazepine addiction recovery requires a medically monitored detox followed by specialized professional treatment.

Upon making the decision to get help, detox facilities cleanse your body and effectively eliminate dangerous toxins from your system. Medical professionals monitor your health, nutrition and mental stability as they prepare you for subsequent treatment.

After completing detox, you’ll transition into a comprehensive treatment program where you’ll learn effective techniques to change behaviors for a healthier lifestyle. While programs vary, levels of care include:

• Inpatient or residential treatment
• Intensive outpatient treatment
• Partial hospitalization treatment

Can you overdose on Klonopin? You can, but you don’t have to. We have resources available to help you or a loved one start a new, substance-free life.