Klonopin (Clonazepam) Side Effects

Klonopin is a medication used primarily to treat anxiety and insomnia. It is a member of the benzodiazepine class of drugs. It mechanism of action centers around the GABA-A receptors within the brain and results in an increased concentration of the neurotransmitter GABA. GABA plays key roles in promoting sleep and lessening anxiety. Though Klonopin has many positive results on patients it is not without its side effects. Before starting to take Klonopin it is important to be familiar with all of the most common potential side effects.

Common side effects of Klonopin (clonazepam)

The most common side effect of clonazepam is drowsiness. For those prescribed Klonopin for insomnia this is a wanted side effect, but for those that are prescribed Klonopin for day time use this side effect can be very unpleasant and debilitating. Another common side effect is impaired motor function and movement. The chance of this side effect manifesting itself increases as the dosage of clonazepam increases. Until you know the effects of clonazepam on your body it is not recommended you drive as there is a possibility that clonazepam could impair your ability to drive making you a danger to yourself and others.

Euphoria is also a side effect reported by those taking Klonopin. The euphoria is often present due to the anti anxiety effects of the medication. Those who suffer from anxiety are more likely to experience feelings of euphoria while taking Klonopin. Those who experience euphoria while on Klonopin are more likely to abuse the drug and become addicted and physically dependent. Another common side effect reported by those who take clonazepam is confusion. This side effect can be debilitating to those that need to function in a work or work related environment while on clonazepam.

Long-term side effects of Klonopin (clonazepam)

Klonopin is not often prescribed or recommended to be taken long term largely due to its long-term side effects. In some cases clonazepam will be taken on a long-term basis but these instances only occur when the benefits of clonazepam to the patient outweigh the long-term side effects. The most common long-term effects associated with Klonopin and all benzodiazepines for that matter, are depression and disinhibition. In many cases long term usage of Klonopin will cause depression or for those who already suffer from depression it may worsen it. Benzodiazepines like clonazepam have also been linked to cognitive impairment from long-term usage. The cognitive impairment can last anywhere from six months to forever. Researchers are still unclear as to the permanence of cognitive impairment from long-term use of clonazepam and other benzodiazepines.

Klonopin sexual side effects

Sometimes Klonopin has side effects that effect the users sex drive. For both men and women Klonopin will often decrease their libido and sex drive making sex seem uninteresting and preventing them from being able to be aroused. For men it may also make it difficult to get and maintain an erection. It can also cause men to have troubling ejaculating as well. Though these effects are unpleasant they are not often permanent and will go away when use of the medication is terminated.