Klonopin (Clonazepam) Side Effects

Klonopin (clonazepam) is a medication that falls into the drug category of benzodiazepines, which slow down the central nervous system and decrease abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

Klonopin has been used to treat people with epilepsy since 1975 and helps treat partial seizures, generalized tonic-clonic seizures, absence seizures, myoclonic seizures, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, and seizures brought on by flashing lights. It may also be used to treat some anxiety disorders, particularly panic disorder.

Klonopin may be used on its own or in conjunction with other medications, such as Depakote (valproate).

Klonopin can have physical side effects, such as dizziness and drowsiness. It can also have emotional side effects, such as irritability and depression.

Read on to learn more about the side effects of Klonopin and how to manage them.

The Emotional Side Effects of Klonopin

Most people who take Klonopin experience no side effects or mild side effects that get better, but moderate-to-severe side effects can occur.

Common emotional and cognitive side effects of Klonopin include:

• Irritability
• Impaired attention and memory
• Depression (usually in adults)
• Problems with memory

Psychiatric side effects are possible, including:

• Depression
• Confusion
• Insomnia
• Psychosis (more likely to occur in people with a history of psychiatric disturbances)

Paradoxical reactions (ones that are the opposite of expected) that have been noted include:

• Irritability
• Aggression
• Nervousness
• Agitation
• Anxiety
• Hostility
• Sleep disturbances, such as nightmares/abnormal dreams
• Hallucinations

Paradoxical reactions are more like to occur in children and in senior adults.

Changes in mental health may occur with taking Klonopin, but there is also a risk of mental health changes by not treating the condition. Work with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for you.

The Physical Side Effects of Klonopin

Side effects of Klonopin are usually dosage related. Common physical side effects may include:

• Drowsiness/tiredness (most common)
• Dizziness
• Unsteadiness/problems with walking and coordination
• Hyperactivity (in children)
• Drooling (in children)
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite

According to research, about 50% of people who take Klonopin for seizures experience drowsiness, and about 30% experience problems with coordination. These may get better over time.

Klonopin may also cause:

• Increased saliva
• Frequent urination
• Muscle or joint pain
• Blurred vision
• Changes in sex drive or ability

If side effects persist or are bothersome, talk to your healthcare provider.

Dealing With the Side Effects of Klonopin

The side effects of Klonopin are largely managed by changing dosage and/or dosing schedules.

Klonopin is usually started with a lower dose that is gradually increased as needed and as your body adjusts to the medication.

Drowsiness is the most common side effect of Klonopin. To manage this side effect (and potentially others), your healthcare provider may suggest:

• Taking your medication at bedtime
• Splitting the dose, with a larger amount at bedtime
• Looking at other medications you are taking (some medications, such as narcotics, can increase the risk of sedative effects with Klonopin)
  
• Reducing your overall dosage
• Prescribing smaller doses, taken more often

Never stop Klonopin or make changes to your treatment plan without the guidance of your healthcare provider. Missing or changing doses can cause withdrawal symptoms that can be serious, and may trigger seizures. Make sure you always have enough Klonopin to last through weekends, holidays, and vacations so doses aren't missed.

Precautions that should be taken while taking Klonopin include:

• Do not drink alcohol.
• Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice (it interferes with the absorption and may cause high blood levels of the medication, which can be dangerous).
  
• Don't take any medications (including over-the-counter, herbal, natural, and supplements) or recreational drugs without first checking with your healthcare provider.
• Go to all your appointments to make sure your side effects and symptoms are monitored and managed.
• Avoid activities that may be dangerous if done while drowsy until you see how Klonopin affects you
• If your child is on Klonopin, let their school know they may be drowsy and need to be watched during times they need to be alert (such as walking up or down stairs)
  

Summary

Klonopin is a type of benzodiazepine primarily used to treat seizures and sometimes anxiety disorders such as panic disorder.

Klonopin can have emotional and cognitive side effects, such as mental health changes, and physical side effects, such as drowsiness and problems with coordination.

Most people who take Klonopin experience few or no side effects, but some side effects can be serious. It's important to keep track of side effects and talk to your healthcare provider if any persist or are troublesome.

Stopping Klonopin or changing dosage without the guidance of a healthcare provider can cause withdrawal symptoms that can be serious.

A Word From Verywell 

If you are taking Klonopin and experiencing unpleasant side effects, talk to your healthcare provider. There are ways to address your side effects and make taking your medication more tolerable.