Klonopin Withdrawal: Timeline & Symptoms

Taking any medication involves risks, and Klonopin is no different. We’ll take a look at Klonopin withdrawal symptoms to gain more insight into the timeline for eliminating the substance from the body. We’ll also explore how to address addiction to Klonopin.

While not created as a recreational drug, Klonopin is frequently misused alongside other similar medications. In a report of past year use, over 20% of adults in the U.S. reported misusing benzodiazepine drugs like Klonopin.

This medication is widely available and prescribed for anxiety and other health concerns. It’s a “PRN” (pro re nata) medication in many cases, meaning it’s up to the individual to take a specified amount “as needed” for symptoms. The freedom to take Klonopin as needed can be a contributing factor to an eventual addiction to the drug.

What Is Klonopin?

Klonopin is a brand name for clonazepam, a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. It is primarily used to treat seizure disorders, panic disorder, and anxiety. Long-term use can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms when discontinuing the drug, so it is typically prescribed for short-term use or carefully monitored long-term treatment.

Klonopin enhances the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, calming the nervous system. This leads to reduced activity in the brain and body, helping to ease anxiety, prevent seizures, and relax muscles. A person can take a prescribed dose in pill form and feel less anxious within minutes.

Like other benzodiazepines, Klonopin can cause side effects such as:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Memory problems
• Coordination issues

What Causes Klonopin Withdrawal?

Klonopin withdrawal occurs when someone who has been using the drug regularly stops taking it or reduces their dose too quickly. Klonopin can lead to physical dependence over time, meaning the body becomes used to the drug’s presence. When the drug is suddenly stopped or reduced, the body may struggle to function without it, leading to withdrawal symptoms.

With prolonged use, the brain adjusts to the presence of Klonopin by reducing its natural production of GABA. When Klonopin is stopped, there is a sudden deficit of GABA activity, causing the brain to become overactive, which results in withdrawal symptoms.

The risk of withdrawal increases with higher doses and more extended periods of use. Even at prescribed doses, long-term use can result in dependence. Additionally, stopping Klonopin suddenly (“cold turkey”) without gradually tapering the dose can shock the system, leading to severe withdrawal symptoms.

Klonopin Withdrawal Symptoms

Each person who takes clonazepam has a unique experience quitting the medication. Withdrawal symptoms can vary based on several factors.

Common Klonopin withdrawal symptoms can include:

• Anxiety and panic attacks (often worse than the original condition being treated)
• Irritability and mood swings
• Insomnia
• Tremors or shaking
• Sweating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Seizures (in severe cases, especially if the drug is stopped suddenly)
• Hallucinations or delusions
• Muscle pain and stiffness

Klonopin Withdrawal Timeline

The Klonopin withdrawal timeline can vary depending on the length of use, dosage, and the individual’s metabolism. Klonopin has a long half-life (18-50 hours), which means it stays in the system longer than other benzodiazepines, and withdrawal symptoms may take longer to appear but can last longer as well.

Here’s a general breakdown of the Klonopin withdrawal timeline:

First 1–4 Days (Early Withdrawal Phase)

Withdrawal symptoms begin 1 to 4 days after the last dose. The delayed onset is due to the drug’s long half-life.

The initial symptoms often include anxiety, irritability, insomnia, and a return of the symptoms the drug was treating (like panic attacks or seizures). Some may experience restlessness, nausea, and tremors.

Days 5–14 (Acute Withdrawal Phase)

Withdrawal symptoms usually peak during during acute withdrawal, becoming most intense.

Common symptoms during this phase include:

• Severe anxiety, panic attacks, or agitation
• Sweating, headaches, and dizziness
• Muscle aches and tension
• Insomnia
• Rebound seizures (in those who took Klonopin for seizures or in high doses)
• Cravings for Klonopin

During this phase, the risk of seizures is highest, especially for those who abruptly stop taking the drug without tapering.

Weeks 3–4 (Subacute Withdrawal Phase)

Symptoms typically decline after 2–4 weeks but can still be significant. This period may include mild-to-moderate anxiety, depression, or mood swings.

The subacute phase can make the person feel extremely tired. Some people continue to experience disturbed sleep patterns.

Weeks 4–8 (Protracted Withdrawal Symptoms)

Some people may experience protracted withdrawal symptoms, a phenomenon where symptoms persist for an extended period after discontinuing the drug. This can last for several months in severe cases, particularly after long-term use.

Lingering symptoms can include mild anxiety, sleep issues, and depressive symptoms.

Months 3–12 (Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome, or PAWS)

For some individuals, symptoms may extend for months or even a year. This is called post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), which can involve emotional instability and continued difficulty with sleep.

Symptoms are less intense during this final phase but can be frustrating as symptoms linger.