Klonopin is a prescription medication used to treat mental health disorders, epilepsy, and restless legs syndrome. It enhances the function of GABA and affects the central nervous system, but can lead to chemical dependence and withdrawal symptoms. Side effects include drowsiness, impaired cognitive and motor function, and interference with normal REM cycles.
Klonopin® (clonazepam) is a prescription oral medication used in the treatment of various mental health disorders, such as anxiety, panic disorder, and depression. However, since the drug possesses anticonvulsant properties, it is also prescribed to discourage seizures associated with epilepsy, as well as subdue the symptoms of restless legs syndrome. Although known as Klonopin® in the United States, this drug is sold in other parts of the world under the trade name of Rivotril®. The pharmaceutical segment of the Swiss-based company, Hoffmann–La Roche, Ltd, distributes this drug to the global market.
A member of the benzodiazepine family of psychotropic drugs, Klonopin® is a mood-altering agent that affects the central nervous system. The biochemical effect in the brain is what gives the drug the ability to influence perception and behavior. Unfortunately, this quality is also what leads to the intentional abuse of this substance.
The pharmacological action of Klonopin® is to enhance the function of an important neurotransmission inhibitor known as gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) by binding to its receptor sites. This leads to the suppression of neural firing, or more specifically, the deterrence of the rapid discharges associated with seizures. It is also fast acting. In fact, Klonopin® has an absorption rate of nearly 90% with optimal blood concentrations being achieved within just one hour of ingestion. This high degree of bioavailability is likely due to the fact that the drug has many available receptor sites outside the central nervous system, including those found in smooth muscle, mast cells, and several major organs.
Like other psychotropic drugs, there are some risks associated with taking Klonopin®. For one thing, there may be a danger of developing a chemical dependence from long-term or habitual use. This risk appears to be particularly evident when this drug is used repeatedly for insomnia. However, when used responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, the potential benefits may outweigh this risk.
At the other extreme is the issue of withdrawal. It is absolutely critical that the patient be weaned off this drug in incremental stages. Otherwise, severe anxiety and irritability can occur. In fact, abruptly and completely stopping this drug can promote psychotic episodes, including dysphoria (depression) and hallucinations. Also, sporadic seizures can occur, even in those who have not experienced any before taking the drug.
In terms of general side effects, Klonopin® can produce drowsiness and impair cognitive and motor function. Because of this action, the drug is usually not recommended for young children or the elderly. Also, this drug may interfere with normal REM cycles, which means that sleep patterns may be affected and you may feel groggy upon waking. Finally, Klonopin® should not be used during pregnancy unless closely monitored by a physician as there is an increased risk of birth defects.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
