Dangers of Mixing Klonopin and Xanax
The interaction of multiple substances can create complex and potentially dangerous pharmacological effects. When substances are combined, they can have synergistic effects, meaning their combined impact is greater than the sum of their individual effects. This can lead to increased risks of overdose and other adverse health outcomes. Continuing reading to learn about the risks of mixing Klonopin and Xanax.
What Are Klonopin and Xanax?
Klonopin is the brand name for clonazepam. It’s a prescription benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders.
As a benzodiazepine, it affects the central nervous system, in particular the gamma-aminobutyric acid-A (GABA-A) receptors in the brain. These receptors inhibit and reduce activity in the nerve cells in the brain, ultimately make them resistant to excitement.
Xanax is the brand name for alprazolam. Like Klonopin, it is a benzodiazepine. Doctors prescribe it to treat anxiety and panic disorders. When used as prescribed, it’s designed to affect the chemicals in the brain that might be unbalanced in those who have anxiety. Xanax is the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepine.
How Common Is Benzodiazepine Abuse?
Benzodiazepine misuse remains a significant public health concern in the United States. According to SAMHSA’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), over 2 million people aged 18 or over misused benzodiazepine medications in 2022.
This misuse encompasses various behaviors, including taking them without a prescription, using them in higher doses or for longer durations than prescribed, and obtaining them from non-medical sources.
If you’re worried about your Xanax or Klonopin use, it’s important to get the right help. Withdrawal from benzodiazepines–especially after prolonged or heavy use–can be dangerous. Reach out to us at to learn about effective treatment options for Xanax addiction.
Why Do People Mix Klonopin and Xanax?
Both Klonopin and Xanax belong to the benzodiazepine class, producing similar effects on the central nervous system. Some individuals may use these medications in combination, seeking to intensify or prolong the desired effects. Klonopin has a longer duration of action compared to Xanax, which has a faster onset. Individuals who use benzodiazepines often seek a sense of relaxation or relief from tension.
If a tolerance for one of the drugs has developed already, it’s possible that people who use these two drugs together are trying to feel the same effect they once felt from earlier use. They might also be trying to extend how long the “high” lasts.
What Are the Short-Term Risks of Mixing Klonopin with Xanax?
Mixing Klonopin and Xanax, both benzodiazepines, significantly amplifies the risks associated with each drug individually. These risks include:
- Increased central nervous system depression: Mixing Klonopin and Xanax can intensify their effects leading to life-threatening respiratory depression (i.e., slowed breathing and heart rate).
- Extreme sedation and drowsiness.
- Cognitive impairment, including memory, concentration, and judgment.
- Increased risk of overdose.
- Impaired motor skills.
While benzodiazepines like Klonopin and Xanax, when taken precisely as prescribed, carry a lower risk of immediate fatality compared to some other substances, their potential for harm significantly increases when combined with other medications, alcohol, or taken in excessive doses.
What Are the Long-Term Risks of Taking Klonopin with Xanax?
Mixing Klonopin and Xanax on a regular basis has the potential to increase the severity of the long-term consequences of benzodiazepine misuse. This can include:
- Cognitive decline and memory impairment.
- Increased risk of the development or worsening of mental health disorders.
- Tolerance and withdrawal.
- Physical dependence and addiction.
- Significantly increased risk of overdose and death.
Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment
Stopping benzodiazepines abruptly can be dangerous, especially for those who have been using them heavily or for a long time. As the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) advises, medical supervision is crucial during withdrawal to ensure safety and minimize the risk of severe complications. For individuals who have used high doses of benzodiazepines over an extended period, inpatient medical management of withdrawal offers a structured and supportive environment to navigate the withdrawal process and reduce the potential for life-threatening symptoms.
After medical detox. there are several effective treatment options that can help people get on the road to recovery. These include:
- Inpatient addiction treatment.
- Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs).
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs).
- Outpatient addiction treatment.
Getting Help for Addiction Near You
If you or a loved one is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, there is hope for a brighter, healthier future. American Addiction Centers’ nationwide network of treatment centers have helped thousand of people find meaningful recovery from addiction so that they can live rich and rewarding lives.
To learn more about your treatment options, give us a call at . Our navigators are on hand to listen to your story, verify your insurance or discuss payment plans, and help you begin your recovery journey. Recovery is possible, so don’t wait. Reach out to us today!
