by: Ned Wicker

Klonopin (clonazepam) is a benzodiazepine, which are used for treating anxiety. Exactly how they work, the mechanism, is not really known, other than scientists have determined that the drug calms excessive nerve activity in the brain, the cause of anxiety.

Benzodiazapines are helpful in treating anxiety, insomnia and are also used in some cases for treating seizures. This group of drugs, including the clonazepam, has been abused for years. It is a “downer” and while it may produce some pleasurable effects, the side-effects are cause for concern. Users have experienced hallucinations, wild thoughts, and bizarre behavior.

Even though it depresses that nerve activity in the brain, it can cause hyperactivity, and sometimes users become irritated and aggressive. Depressants also can cause breathing difficulties. “Downers” can also cause suicidal thoughts or thoughts of inflicting harm. Abusers will show many signs of addiction, including and not limited to an inability to choose to stop, loss of interest in friends, school, activities and family. They may sleep too much, or too little, or may display unusual behavior characteristics.

Klonopin is one of the strongest benzos prescribed and has been characterized as “one of the deadliest in America” because of it’s negative effects. Many people say it turned them into a “zombie”, and yet they just couldn’t stop taking it and wanted more and more of it.

So if you know someone you think may be abusing Klonopin, please try to get them the help necessary to stop.