Category: United States

What is Klonopin

Before talking about Klonopin addiction, effects, and withdrawal, first we need to understand what is Klonopin. Klonopin, also known as Clonazepam, is actually a drug used to prevent and control seizures. It is known as an anticonvulsant or antiepileptic type of drug. However, Klonopin is also used to treat panic attacks. This medication is prescribed by a doctor and works by calming your brain and nerves, belonging to the drug family of benzodiazepines.

Other common benzodiazepines include medications like Xanax, Librium, Valium, and Ativan. All of which are considered highly addictive. Klonopin, when used correctly, can be highly effective. However, it may create a tolerance as well. Especially when used for panic attacks.

Klonopin Side Effects

Klonopin is a highly effective medication for both seizures and panic attacks, but as with many other medications it is important to know that side effects exist. Though the focus of this article is addiction and withdrawal from Klonopin, knowing normal side effects can help eliminate them to some degree in addiction. Typical Klonopin side effects include depression, suicidal thoughts, confusion, and memory problems. If these symptoms show up you need to talk to your doctor and if they do not lessen over time then this is a problem.

Klonopin Addiction

Since Klonopin is potentially habit forming simply by being part of the benzodiazepine family, some people can become addicted in only a few weeks. For some this may happen without trying, simply by using exactly what the doctor prescribed. Once a person is addicted, the brain can no longer produce the feelings Klonopin is supposed to that of relaxation and calmness. This is why people with Klonopin addiction struggle to quit and are unable to function normally without it. Signs of Klonopin addiction include:

• Persistent Klonopin cravings
• Continued use despite negative consequences
• Losing interest in obligations (social and professional)
• Wanting to quit without the ability
• Issues financially or legally

This all begins with a tolerance to the medication, like so many other addictions. The user builds up a tolerance in which they need a larger dose to get the same effects as the smaller dose. This can happen so quickly with Klonopin because as soon as the drug wears off, symptoms of anxiety and insomnia often return immediately.

Withdrawal from Klonopin

Withdrawal symptoms from Klonopin are highly varied and feeling these symptoms is often what keeps someone from stopping on their own. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms seek medical intervention as they can be difficult to navigate. Symptoms include:

• Headaches
• Stomach Pains and nausea
• Tremors and sweating
• Hallucinations
• Dizziness and Confusion
• Fatigue
• Anxiety and depression
• Seizures
• Thoughts of suicide

As mentioned, some of these are normal side effects of Klonopin, but the difference is that with side effects they are typically felt when first taking the medication and go away over time, while withdrawal comes after prolonged use.

Acute withdrawal usually peaks two weeks after stopping Klonopin use, but can last anywhere from a week to a full month with subtle signs. There are also medically concerning physical symptoms of Klonopin withdrawal that should be monitored. These include:

• Short term memory loss
• Insomnia
• Irregular heart rate or palpitations
• Increased blood pressure
• Blurred vision
• Muscle spasms
• Impaired coordination and motor functions

Withdrawal from benzos can have debilitating psychological side effects, including an increased risk for suicide. This is why finding the right treatment is so important.

Withdrawal Timing

There are three main phases of withdrawal from Klonopin, early, acute, and protracted or late. Klonopin is a benzo with a long half life of 18 to 50 hours so withdrawal will not likely begin before 1 to 3 days of the last dose because until then the drug is still effective. Early withdrawal lasts about 2 to 4 days and is likely to include rebound symptoms like insomnia and anxiety. This moves into acute withdrawal that peaks around two weeks and can last from a week to a month. Acute withdrawal is when the majority of symptoms will be felt. Protracted or late withdrawal can include the continuation of some symptoms and drug cravings may occur. This aspect can last for several months or even years for some people.

Not everyone will have all three phases as they are affected by some other influencing areas, which include:

• Age – Older people tend to have stronger withdrawal
• Amount taken with each dose – The more drug ingested, the more heavily dependent the brain
• Abuse of other substances – Multiple drug use can make all side effects worse
• Length of time – The longer Klonopin has been used, the more dependent one becomes
• Comorbid disorders – Mental health issues and medical issues can make withdrawal worse
• Genetics – A family history of addiction can increase Klonopin addiction behaviors and withdrawal symptoms
• Environmental factors – Environments that are high stress or non-supportive can impede the withdrawal period.

Treatment Options

There are always options when it comes to treatment. Out-patient counseling is one option, but when Klonopin withdrawal is a concern then medical treatment should also be sought. Following the withdrawal period, out-patient counseling is something that should be utilized to maintain recovery whether it be through group or individual settings. Getting clean on your own is also possible, but rarely works and medical concerns are still high priority. The best option is an in-patient facility that is well staffed and well versed in addiction.

One such facility is DARA. DARA offers locations in several countries around the world with affordable prices and spectacular views from luxury facilities that will meet your recovery needs. DARA does not simply focus on addiction, but on the overall well being of the person. This is accomplished through education, therapy, groups, and even physical fitness and nutritional balance. Addiction can affect the whole body and this should be addressed through rehab. Each person will be given the tools and training necessary to reenter the real world ready to face daily challenges that come with recovery. If you or a loved one has developed a Klonopin addiction or any addiction to benzos, then give DARA a call. Your life does not need to be lived tethered to a drug, DARA can help.

CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment. Alternatively, you can click on the live chat icon to chat with someone right now.

What is Addiction?

Before you can determine if you or a loved one has an addiction or drug abuse problem, you must understand what an addiction or drug abuse problem actually is according to the professionals. An addiction is a complex condition, a brain disease, that is manifested through compulsive substance use in spite of the harmful consequences. People who suffer from addiction tend to have an intense focus on getting and using specific drugs.

Addiction is no respecter of persons. Anyone can develop a drug abuse problem. Regardless of social class, age, ability, race, or gender. It can be difficult to identify a drug abuse problem, especially for those who have continued to work and live a relatively normal life. Having a drug problem is no reason to be ashamed. Unless you are refusing to seek help. Take a chance on yourself and get help for yourself or your loved one if necessary. Life will improve if you take that chance.

Identifying a Drug Abuse Problem

Drug abuse, now called substance use disorder, is more common than most might think. If you are concerned you or a loved one has an issue then there are two main areas to look at for signs. These are physical and behavioral. Since drug abuse does not depend on age, the addiction may have started through prescription or street drugs and developed from there.

Physical Symptoms

Physical symptoms of addiction start with tolerance and dependence. Tolerance is usually the first stage in which the person will need more or a higher dose of the medication or drug to achieve the same effect. This means they have built up a tolerance. The next step is dependence which is when the person cannot stop using, even for a little while, without feeling withdrawal symptoms. Dependence and addiction are not the same, but dependence does often lead to addiction if the person does not receive help. Both tolerance and dependence can happen with illegal drugs and prescription medications. Other physical symptoms can include:

• Bloodshot or glazed eyes
• Dilated or constricted pupils
• Abrupt weight changes (increase or decrease)
• Sleep pattern changes (insomnia or sleeping too much)
• Looking unkempt (poor hygiene)
• Unusual body odors
• Poor physical condition

These may not be present for all addicts and some may come and go or change from one extreme to the other over time. However, if several are present along with behavioral symptoms then an addiction is probably present.

Behavioral Symptoms

Behavioral symptoms will vary greatly from person to person, even those using the same drug as people can react differently to what they take. The effects may also come and go based on the amount of usage. Behavioral symptoms include:

• Increased aggression
• Increased irritability
• Lethargy
• Depression (or worsened depression)
• A change in the type of posts on social media
• Involvement in criminal activity

Again, not everything will occur with all people and some people may experience only a few of these symptoms, but it is important to watch out for these changes over time. Addiction can very easily lead a perfectly law abiding person into criminal activity to obtain more drugs if the addiction is severe enough.

Effects on Family and Friends

Addiction is a horrible thing on its own. Unfortunately, addiction does not just affect the user, but all those around him or her and in different ways. Addiction can ruin the user’s life in a short amount of time or over many years. However, the addiction also touches family, friends, and society as a whole. Allow this to be explained. Friends and family members may suspect someone is using, but not say anything for a while. This allows resentment to build up over time and a fight may occur and damage the relationship. Furthermore, friends and family may have to bail an addict out of bad situations, loan them money, or provide shelter when things get their worst. This can get old.

In the worst case scenario, addicts may lie to family and friends or even steal from them to support an addiction. If the addict turns to crime then society is also affected as they must deal with the person going to jail and going through the court system. These negative effects can build until the user has no support which may make the addiction worse or could be the wake up call that is needed.

Getting Help

As with any issue, especially those related to addiction, admitting there is a problem is the first step. Once you or a family member is ready to admit a problem exists, then help is available. Pushing someone into rehab before they are ready is rarely successful, though some who have been court ordered have successfully stayed in recovery long term.

DARA rehab seeks to use a program that is both affordable and effective. With locations in many countries around the world, DARA has taken converted luxury resorts and created an oasis of sorts for those ready to overcome their addictions. By focusing not only on the actual addiction, but also the mind-body connection, DARA is successful in this approach. Clients are kept on a busy schedule that forces them out of the comfort zone of hiding and into life. A typical day may include an early morning, short water workout in the pool while enjoying stunning views. Proceed to a nutritious, bountiful breakfast and then therapy, both group and individual for the day.

The therapy process focuses on education about addiction as well as cognitive behavioral therapy that helps the user learn that thoughts, actions, and behaviors are related and can be altered if you change any single aspect. Each patient will meet and workout with a personal trainer to both improve the body and build self-esteem. There are also sports, meditation, and on occasion movies and games. This keeps the patient busy while also creating chances for interactions and personal growth. Before leaving DARA, you will gain the tools necessary to move back into your every day life. This allows you to reenter your life with what is necessary to stay drug free.

Are You Ready?

If you are ready to get help for a drug abuse problem, give DARA a call. Someone is available 24/7 to help you get started in your first steps to recovery.

CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment. Alternatively, you can click on the live chat icon to chat with someone right now.

Losing Trust with Addiction

Addiction changes lives, and it’s not just the lives of those who are addicted. Family members, friends, and acquaintances are often damaged in the wake of addiction. It is not uncommon for an addict to lie, cheat, steal, and much more in order to feed the addiction. One of the things lost on both sides of addiction is trust. An addict may lose trust in family and friends because they tried to force rehab or lied about discussing the addiction and loved ones may lose trust in the addict because of all the behaviors over time. However, rebuilding trust is possible. 

Rebuilding Trust

It may seem odd that family members may need to rebuild trust with the addict during recovery, but the truth is addiction steals trust for many reasons and in many ways. Even after the addict gets help and is in recovery, the memories of how they were treated can leave relationships strained. This is usually because there was a difference in opinion over getting help and someone was too tough or too lenient and conflict ensues. It will take time to rebuild this trust.

On the other hand, it will also take time for others to trust the addict once again. Addiction brings about many behaviors that break trust. Addicts may steal, lie, cheat, disappear, and break promises in order to further the addiction and this ruins trust. The good news is it is possible to rebuild that trust.

Basic Steps to Rebuilding Trust

The basic steps to rebuilding trust are time, boundaries, consistency and honesty. This is not as easy as it sounds, but it is necessary to rebuild trust on both sides of addiction. For the addict and those that are hurt it will take time before trust is given. This may mean weeks, months, or even years before people can once again trust each other. During this time both parties must be consistent and honest with one another, even when it is difficult. This is what is hardest for most people as it is difficult to be honest when the truth is not great. However, if you are consistently honest, even when it does not benefit you in any way or is even embarrassing, then trust will grow as people understand it is hard to share.

Another area that is difficult but necessary is to set boundaries. Addiction ruins boundaries, so when in recovery boundaries are necessary. Make sure both sides know and keep these boundaries. If they are broken then there should be basic consequences. These boundaries will create healthy relationships.

Consistency is Key

Finally, consistency is key. Addiction tends to make someone inconsistent in everything but the addiction. Addicts likely missed big family events, made plans that they bailed on, or just broke numerous promises and this breaks trust. Once in recovery it is best to be consistent and do as you say you are going to do in life. Even small promises and agreements should be kept and this consistency will help build trust. The same is true of the loved ones of the addict. If they agree to something then the promise should be kept. Remember, it is ok to say no to activities, but if you say yes then do what you said. This simple act goes a long way to building trust.

Help

If you or a loved one is in active addiction then seek help. DARA can help you not only overcome addiction, but help to start rebuilding trust and relationships through family counseling and individual counseling while at a DARA facility. Addiction steals so much, but much of it can be regained in time and with work. Call to book a room and get the help you need today.

CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment. Alternatively, you can click on the live chat icon to chat with someone right now.

Opioid Effects on Chronic Pain: What are Opioids

Before truly discussing the opioid effects on pain and risk for addiction, we must understand what an opioid is in general. Opioids are prescription drugs that resemble opium as far as addictive properties and physiological effects. These drugs are most often given for pain from surgery or serious injury. In some cases they are part of a treatment plan for chronic pain sufferers. Opioids do serve a purpose and function, but because of their addictive properties they are highly dangerous.

Opioid Effects

The irony in opioids is that though they are prescription, they are highly addictive. Despite being prescribed for pain, they often make it worse long term for various reasons. This will be explained a bit further below.

Over time, these types of painkillers cause the pain you feel to actually increase. While opioids are effective short term, a few days after surgery, It is quite the opposite when it comes to long term. For those who take them long term, like four or more weeks, they make you more sensitive to pain which makes your pain worse. This is because opioids block the pain receptors. This is good at first, but to accommodate the body increases the number of receptors so you will feel the pain and ‘fix’ it. If you continue to take the med’s the body will continue to build receptors. It is a self-defeating cycle.

Opioids Mask Emotional Trauma and Pain

Another concern is the ability of opioids to mask emotional trauma and pain. Pain is typically a combination of physical and emotional and it can be hard for the brain to separate them. Each area needs a different type of help. However, opioids can mask the trauma and emotional stuff. This can be made worse if opioids are stopped. Unfortunately it cannot be treated if they are continued.

Painkillers do not build resilience which is what is needed with chronic pain. Resilience is the ability to endure a difficult experience and adapt. Opioids do not force the person to adapt as the pain is blocked. However if the pain is dealt with and a low dose of something else used short term, the body will learn to adapt to current pain levels. This is related to another issue opioids often cause which is effect good sleep. The person who uses opioids long term may be unable to sleep well. Use of the medication wears off and restorative, healing sleep is not attained making problems worse.

Finally, motion is really the best treatment for chronic pain. Unfortunately, opioid use tends to make the person less likely to be up and moving around, especially if an addiction occurs. Instead of strong medications, physical therapy, weight loss, and staying mobile may be best.

Help for Addiction

If you or a loved one have developed an opioid addiction then seeking help at a facility is important. DARA offers an in-patient facility that helps the whole person heal so any emotional or physical issues on top of addiction will be dealt with in an appropriate way so that the patient can be reintegrated back into their daily lives. You are worth so much more than a phone call, but that is a good place to start. Call DARA today.

CLICK HERE to get a Free Confidential Addiction Rehabilitation Assessment. Alternatively, you can click on the live chat icon to chat with someone right now.