Many people around the world live with an anxiety or panic disorder. In the United States, millions of people seek treatment for these conditions, which may include taking medications.

Klonopin is a commonly prescribed medication people use to manage anxiety or panic disorders. Klonopin and other similar medications have a risk for abuse and addiction, as well as other dangerous complications.

The risk of complications can increase if people mix Klonopin and alcohol. It is important to understand the risk of mixing Klonopin and alcohol. If you or a loved one mixes Klonopin and alcohol, seek treatment as soon as possible.

This article will explore the risk of mixing Klonopin and alcohol.

If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find effective treatment and compassionate support at the Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our intake team now to explore our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

What is Klonopin?

Klonopin is the brand name for a prescription drug called clonazepam. Klonopin belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Doctors may prescribe benzodiazepines like Klonopin to help patients manage anxiety, panic disorders, and other conditions.

Klonopin works by increasing the levels of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA counteracts the effects of adrenaline, a chemical associated with arousal, energy, and anxiety. Mental health experts believe that low GABA levels may contribute to some mental health conditions, including general anxiety, bipolar disorder, and panic attacks.

Klonopin and other benzodiazepines have the potential for abuse and addiction. Doctors may prescribe Klonopin for short-term use to reduce the risk of addiction.

Understanding Klonopin Abuse

Klonopin can help people manage the symptoms of anxiety, panic, and other mental health conditions. It is a central nervous system depressant, meaning that it slows brain activity and reduces anxiety.

People may feel pleasurable side effects when taking Klonopin. They may experience:

• Calm
• Sedation
• Euphoria

People may abuse Klonopin by:

• Taking a larger dose than prescribed
• Taking it more often than prescribed
• Long-term use of Klonopin
• Using it recreationally (without a prescription)

Abusing CNS depressants like Klonopin can be very dangerous. People can experience overdoses, which may result in slowed breathing and other life-threatening complications.

Klonopin abuse can cause serious health risks. Combining Klonopin and alcohol or other CNS depressants can increase the risk of deadly complications.

The Effects and Risks of Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol is one of the most commonly abused substances in the United States. On its own, alcohol can cause a variety of short-term side effects, including:

• Memory issues
• Slurred speech
• Mood changes–agitation, depression, euphoria
• Nausea and vomiting
• Irregular heart rate
• Slow or shallow breathing

Long periods of excessive drinking can lead to long-term health problems, including:

• Weakened immunity
• Higher risk of stroke
• Liver damage
• Pancreatitis
• Higher risk of certain cancers, including breast, colon, throat, and stomach

Combining alcohol and other substances, including Klonopin, can have dangerous effects. It can increase the risk of overdose and other life-threatening complications.

The Dangers of Mixing Alcohol and Klonopin

Alcohol and Klonopin both depress central nervous system (CNS) activity. Drinking alcohol while taking Klonopin can enhance the sedative effects of Klonopin. This can lead to:

• Depressed (slow or shallow) breathing
• Excessive drowsiness
• Loss of coordination and higher risk of accidents or injuries
• Reduced liver function
• Memory problems
• Increased risk of addiction

People who mix Klonopin and alcohol may have dangerously slow or shallow breathing that requires immediate medical intervention. If you believe you or someone near you is experiencing an overdose or complications from combining medications, seek treatment immediately.

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Do I Need Substance Abuse Treatment?

Many people believe that prescription medications are always safe because a medical professional prescribes them. However, some prescription drugs, including Klonopin, have a risk of abuse, addiction, and other serious complications.

Your doctor may advise you to stop drinking while taking prescription Klonopin. If you struggle to reduce or stop your drinking, it may be a sign you require the support of an addiction treatment program.

If you take Klonopin differently than prescribed, you may require a medical detox and treatment program to stop using it safely. If you take Klonopin recreationally and cannot stop on your own, seek treatment right away.

Some of the signs that you may require the support of a medically assisted detox and rehab program include:

• Experiencing cravings for drugs or alcohol
• Having withdrawal symptoms when you stop using either Klonopin or alcohol
• Taking risks while using drugs or alcohol, such as mixing substances, driving while intoxicated, or having unprotected sex
• Needing to use more of a substance over time to get the desired effects
• Wanting to stop using drugs or alcohol but finding you can’t stop on your own

It can be challenging to overcome substance use disorder (SUD), but getting the right support and treatment can help.

Find Treatment Now

Substance abuse and addiction can make every part of your life more challenging. Get the comprehensive treatment and support you need to recover from addiction by contacting the Alamo Behavioral Health. Explore your treatment options or schedule an appointment by contacting us today.

References:

1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Klonopin tablets
2. Science Direct: Clonazepam
3. American Journal of Managed Care: Benzodiazepine and Unhealthy Alcohol Use Among Adult Outpatients
4. Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs: The Combined Effects of Alcohol and Benzodiazepines on Driving-Related Neurocognitive Skills: A Systematic Review