Klonopin Detox Centers

When Is A Klonopin Detox Center Recommended?

Medically-supervised detox would almost always be recommended when Klonopin is involved. Why? It can be very easy to become physically and psychologically addicted to Klonopin, and tolerance can build quickly – even when Klonopin has been taken as prescribed. Once this happens, there is no way to predict how the body will respond when someone stops taking Klonopin, and symptoms can be dangerous and deadly if not managed.

Klonopin (clonazepam) belongs in the benzodiazepine (benzo) drug class, along with more well-known medications like Xanax and Valium. While not as strong as Xanax, Klonopin is longer acting medication that will remain in the system, with complete detox taking up to several weeks. Klonopin detox centers can ensure safety and comfort during this time. The risk of relapse is high during that first phase of detox, and having support at this time can improve the chances of successful recovery.

Some situations that may indicate a Klonopin detox center is highly recommended may include:

History of Seizures

The way Klonopin works causes the brain to make certain changes if someone uses it chronically. Some of these changes have to do with the neurotransmitter GABA, a major inhibitory neurotransmitter, and one of the main components of the seizure threshold. The seizure threshold is the limit at which neurological stimulation will result in a seizure, and GABA has a major role in keeping this threshold high. When someone becomes addicted to Klonopin, the brain reduces its sensitivity to GABA. Once Klonopin use ceases, the reduced impact of GABA combined with the lack of Klonopin means that the seizure threshold is lowered significantly. Seizures could happen to anyone during Klonopin withdrawal, but if someone already has a history of seizures, then this risk is increased substantially.

Co-Occurring Mental Health Issues

Klonopin is often prescribed to treat seizure disorders or certain types of anxiety disorder, so it may be more common for those who abuse Klonopin to have been introduced to it through a legitimate prescription. Regardless of the way someone found their way to Klonopin, the symptoms of Klonopin withdrawal can exhibit intense psychological symptoms including deep depression, intense anxiety, and possibly even thoughts of suicide. If someone had struggled with mental health issues in the past, then the risk of these symptoms may be increased.

The Intake Process

The intake process at Klonopin detox centers is essentially a fact-finding operation. There is a sense of urgency when Klonopin is involved because of the serious risks, and the staff will work quickly to initiate treatment. Before treatment can begin, patient information will need to be gathered. The information gathered will be used by the medical and psychiatric staff to customize a treatment plan.

The intake process at a glance:

1. Intake Interview: Intake staff will collect personal information including insurance information, emergency contact information, and any other information needed to establish care.
2. Assessment: A drug use history interview will be completed. Questions would include types of drugs used, the amounts used, duration of use, etc. This information is helpful to doctors because it can help identify and prepare treatment for symptoms.
3. Medical Screen: Staff will gather personal health information including medical history, mental health history, vital signs (blood pressure and body temperature), and blood toxicology tests.

The exact process may change from location-to-location, but the goal is the same: ensure personalized care, initiate treatment as soon as possible, and prevent or manage potential complications.

Medical Monitoring of Klonopin Detox Related Dangers

Medical monitoring is a critical aspect of treatment offered by Klonopin detox centers. Klonopin detox can be dangerous, but with personalized care and observation, symptoms can be managed. Medical and psychiatric staff will provide support and care during this time.

Here is a break down of some of the most common symptoms of Klonopin detox:

• Seizures: Potentially dangerous or even fatal. Medical observation and care are necessary to reduce the risks and prevent further complications.
• Vomiting & Diarrhea: Can lead to dehydration, and in the presence of co-occurring physical health issues, this could be dangerous.
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Mood Swings
• Increased Aggression and Irritability
• Suicidal Thoughts: High risk. Psychiatric observation and intervention are critical.

With consistent observation and proper care, the risks involved with Klonopin detox can be managed. The most dangerous symptoms will be monitored closely. Safe and effective detox is possible with the help of Klonopin detox centers.

Medications Used By Klonopin Detox Centers

Treatment with medications is a distinct advantage of accepting help from Klonopin detox centers. There are no FDA-approved medications specifically for Klonopin detox. Based on the patient’s history, it’s most likely a tapering schedule will be implemented. Medications can be used to treat and mitigate symptoms. Doctors will prescribe medications based on the patient’s specific needs, but some medications are frequently prescribed during Klonopin detox.

Here are the most commonly prescribed medications, arranged by symptoms:

• Seizures: GABA agents such as gabapentin can be prescribed to help regulate neural connections in the brain. Klonopin is a depressant, and excessive use can result in a dampening of GABA activity in the brain. When Klonopin use is stopped, the brain will go into “overdrive” as it attempts to return to normal activity. GABA agents would likely be prescribed as part of a long-term treatment plan.
• Hypertension: Blood pressure medications such as beta-blockers may be prescribed to manage blood pressure during detox. Typically, blood pressure medication would be taken only until blood pressure has been stabilized.
• Anxiety: Doctors will be careful to prescribe the right medications for anxiety since this is both a common symptom of Klonopin detox and a reason people take Klonopin, to begin with. For acute anxiety, doctors may prescribe hydroxyzine (an antihistamine), or buspirone, a non-habit-forming anti-anxiety medication. Most anxiolytic medications are used on an as-needed basis.
• Depression/Mood Swings: Anti-depressants and/or mood stabilizers may be prescribed to help regulate and repair damaged neural connections in the brain. Different medications perform different functions, but the most frequently prescribed anti-depressants are SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) such as Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft. Anti-depressants can also be used to regulate mood and treat chronic anxiety. These medications work better over longer periods and would be part of a long-term treatment plan.
• Insomnia: Sleep aids may be prescribed to address insomnia or poor sleep quality. Poor sleep is a very common symptom during Klonopin detox. A stronger sleep aid medication such as zolpidem (Ambien) may be prescribed early in detox. As sleep patterns improve, doctors may taper zolpidem use in favor of other medications.

Therapy During Klonopin Detox

Substance use disorder involving Klonopin is a complex issue. Certainly, there is a medical need to safely remove Klonopin from the body, but long-term recovery will require therapy. Therapy is a broad term that would encompass any number of approaches. No matter what the approach is, the goal is to address the underlying emotions, attitudes, and behaviors that contribute to someone’s desire to use Klonopin. Klonopin detox centers will offer exposure to different forms of therapy. Here are some different forms of therapy offered:

Holistic Detox Therapy

Many people are opting for programs that include more a more holistic approach to detox. Holistic therapy is typically comprised of multiple different approaches, but the goal remains the same: treat the entire person, mind, body, and soul. When combined with traditional medical therapies, holistic detox can offer a well-rounded experience. Holistic therapy elements offered by Klonopin detox centers would include yoga, chiropractic, mindfulness meditation, art therapy, and acupuncture.

Group Therapy

Group therapy offered by Klonopin detox centers can be valuable in addressing the needs of people who have suffered from the effects of Klonopin use. Group therapy helps by removing social stigma and breaking down the barriers of isolation caused by substance use disorder. Lead by a licensed therapist, Group therapy is an opportunity to practice communication, empathy, and social integration.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is frequently used in Klonopin detox centers because it is an effective, evidence-based, form of therapy that can be used to address numerous underlying factors relating to a substance use disorder. With the help of a therapist, CBT works by helping someone recognize and analyze the thoughts and beliefs that lead to actions and behaviors. For someone who has struggled with Klonopin use, CBT can assist in decision-making, relapse prevention, communication skills, and managing cravings.

Continuing Klonopin Addiction Treatment

Following detox, Klonopin inpatient treatment would be recommended. Ongoing intensive treatment will greatly improve the quality of life in recovery. An inpatient treatment plan would involve a stay at a dedicated facility for an extended period, usually 30-90 days. During their time in an inpatient treatment center, the patient is isolated from the outside world while they focus entirely on recovery. An inpatient treatment center will take over where detox treatment leaves off, ensuring continued progress and growth well into the future. Recovery is possible!