First approved by the FDA in 1975, Klonopin is one of the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines in the United States. This prescription medication is used to treat anxiety, panic disorders, and seizure disorders.
This class of drugs works by slowing down the central nervous system. But how long does Klonopin last? Overdosing on it can lead to coma and death. You don’t want to have Klonopin stuck in your system for long. Here is all you need to know about Klonopin, its dosage, and side effects.
Table of contents
How long does Klonopin last?
Klonopin has a long half-life of 30-40 hours. This means that it takes 30-40 hours for your body to eliminate half of the drug. The effects of this drug can last for up to 12 hours.
Although the peak effects of Klonopin are typically felt within 1-4 hours of taking the medication. After that, the effects of the drug will gradually decrease over time.
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What is the duration of effect of Klonopin?
The duration of effect of Klonopin typically lasts for 6-12 hours. Klonopin has a long half-life which means that it takes longer for the body to eliminate half of the drug.
Its duration can also be affected by other factors, such as dosage, metabolism, age, and if taken with other medications.
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What is the dosage for Klonopin?
According to medicalnewstoday.com, the maximum recommended dosage of Klonopin to treat seizure disorders is 20 mg per day. This may be split up into multiple doses per day.
Drugs.com opines dosage should be increased by no more than 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg every third day until the daily maintenance dose has been reached.
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What are the side effects of Klonopin?
Klonopin is generally safe and effective when used as prescribed, but it can cause a number of side effects, including:
- Common side effects: drowsiness, dizziness, unsteadiness, problems with coordination, difficulty thinking or remembering, increased saliva, muscle or joint pain, frequent urination, blurred vision, and changes in sex drive or ability.
- Serious side effects: rash, hives, swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, hoarseness, difficulty breathing.
- Other possible side effects: depression, suicidal thoughts or attempts, changes in mood or behavior, confusion, aggression, hallucinations, thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself, weak or shallow breathing, pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest, and unusual or involuntary eye movements.
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Is Klonopin addictive?
Yes, Klonopin is addictive. It is a benzodiazepine medication, and all benzodiazepines have the potential to be addictive. Benzodiazepines work by increasing the levels of a neurotransmitter called GABA in the brain.
GABA has a calming effect, which is why benzodiazepines are effective for treating anxiety and insomnia. However, over time, the body can become tolerant to the effects of Klonopin, meaning that people need to take higher and higher doses to achieve the same effect.
How many times a day do you take Klonopin?
Klonopin is typically taken two or three times per day, but if it makes you sleepy, you may only need to take one dose at bedtime. Your doctor may reduce your dosage as well.
Is 1 mg of Klonopin a day a lot?
In general, 1 mg of Klonopin is considered a low to moderate dose. It is often used as a starting dose for people who are new to the medication. The maximum recommended dosage of this drug is 4 milligrams per day. However, for older adults or people with certain medical conditions, such as liver disease or kidney disease, 1 mg may be a high dose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Klonopin works by increasing the levels of a neurotransmitter called GABA in the brain.
Yes, Klonopin can make you sleepy, especially when you first start taking it. This is one of the most common side effects of the medication.
Klonopin is a very effective and well-tolerated medication for treating a variety of conditions.
The severity of your condition and how well Klonopin controls your symptoms will play a role in deciding whether or not to take it daily.
Conclusion
Klonopin can be effective in treating insomnia, but it is not typically recommended for this purpose due to its long half-life. It can be addictive, so it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits before taking this medication.
References
- Medical News Today.com – Klonopin dosage: Form, strengths, how to take, and more
- Psychcentral.com – Klonopin: Side Effects, Dosage, and More
- Mayoclinic.com – Clonazepam (Oral Route) Proper Use
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