Clonazepam is the generic name for Klonopin and is most often recommended by doctors for the treatment of seizures and panic attacks. Although it has been demonstrated to be effective in treating panic attacks, this medication is typically prescribed for the treatment of seizures. Because it works quickly, both patients and doctors like it. Nevertheless, it should be noted that this medication is not intended for long-term use. By altering brain chemicals, Klonopin works. As a result, your body and mind experience a sense of relaxation as your muscles relax.
Is Klonopin a sedative?
Some people consider taking Klonopin to help them sleep at night due to its side effects of drowsiness and intense relaxation. Unfortunately, this is not a good idea and is not safe. There are much better and more effective medications for treating insomnia; rather than taking Klonopin incorrectly, you should talk to your doctor about those options.
Instructions for Dosing Klonopin (Clonazepam)
The right amount of Klonopin to take depends on the condition you’re being treated for. Based on your symptoms’ severity and current health, your doctor will make the best decision. However, the following is typical administration of Klonopin:
For seizures,
adults over the age of 18 should take 0.5 mg three times per day;
children should take 0.01 to 0.02 mg two to three times per day.
For panic disorder,
adults over the age of 18 should take 0.25 mg twice daily.
Klonopin has not been approved to treat panic disorder in children.
What Does Klonopin Look Like?
Larger, white, round pill marked with the markings K—2mg
Small, round, orange tablet marked with a K — 0.5 mg, and
Slightly larger, round, blue pill marked with the markings K—1 mg respectively.
Klonopin comes in tablet form, and its strength can sometimes be seen by its color.
For children and individuals who have difficulty swallowing pills, Klonopin (Clonazepam) is also available as a disintegrating tablet. Blister packs are available for these wafers. Except for the marking, which indicates the strength, all dosages appear identical in this form as white, round tablets.
When I take Klonopin, what should I avoid?
When taking Klonopin, you must avoid alcohol at all costs. If you drink while taking this medication, it might cause more severe side effects or make it less effective. The same applies to the intake of illegal drugs.
Side Effects
Unfavorably, despite a medication’s efficacy, it may cause undesirable effects. Fortunately, many of the negative effects of Klonopin tend to go away the longer you take it.
Drowsiness is the most common side effect that this medication can cause. More than a third of Klonopin patients typically experience this problem. Unless you experience drowsiness that is moving toward sedation or an inability to remain awake or conscious, you should not be concerned about this side effect. Contact a medical professional right away if you experience sedation or breathing difficulties.
Other frequent side effects, which can be either minor or serious, include:
Dizziness,
Depression
Memory issues
Flu-like symptoms like muscle pain and coughing,
Problems with coordination,
Nervousness is among the various other symptoms that might occur. If you stop taking Klonopin suddenly, you are more likely to experience withdrawal symptoms. Before stopping any prescribed medication, always consult your doctor, and taper your dosage to avoid side effects.
Blister packs of Klonopin are designed to dissolve in your mouth. Therefore, when handling these pills, ensure that your hands are completely dry to prevent their disintegration.
If you are taking Klonopin for the first time or typically experience side effects, you should make sure you won’t need to drive because the drug usually starts working within an hour.