Can You Smoke Klonopin?

Klonopin is offered as a tablet which can be crushed and snorted. However, some crush the substance into a powder and sprinkle it on other smokable drugs such as marijuana or tobacco.

Abusing Klonopin in this manner allows the drug to quickly affect the brain within seconds due to the fact that this “benzo” is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. It slows the CNS and enhances the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, creating feelings of euphoria and sedation.

Klonopin (the brand name for clonazepam) is an anticonvulsant and benzodiazepine prescription drug used to help treat those suffering from symptoms of seizure disorders and anxiety disorders. 

For instance, Klonopin may help prevent panic attacks in those diagnosed with panic disorder and mood swings in those with a mood disorder such as bipolar disorder.

Klonopin is a Schedule IV controlled substance per the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which means it has abuse potential and can lead to psychological or physical dependence.

Smoking Klonopin

A person can smoke Klonopin when they crush the tablet into a powder. Once in powder form, a person may use tin foil to place the substance on top and use a lighter to heat the drug, inhaling the vapors.

This process can prove to be difficult and time consuming. Many choose to combine powdered Klonopin with weed or tobacco to smoke the drug more easily.

Side Effects Of Smoking Klonopin

In addition to damage to lung health, the side effects of Klonopin can range in severity. Even common side effects can be heightened when Klonopin is smoked or abused.

Some of the side effects of Klonopin that may be intensified include:

• calming effect
• sedation
• blurred vision
• problems with concentration
• drowsiness
• change in sex drive
• dizziness
• unsteadiness
• severe impairment
• fluctuations in heart rate and blood pressure
• withdrawal symptoms after discontinuation

Dangers Of Smoking Klonopin

There are a variety of dangers associated with smoking Klonopin, including a risk of lung problems and overdose.

Problems With Lung Health

Smoking Klonopin can lead to serious dangers to your lung health. In fact, some of the dangers you may experience include:

• the development of a chronic cough
• frequent lung infections
• chronic sore throat
• breathing problems
• the development of pneumonia or tuberculosis
• possible lung cancer

Drug Interactions

As stated by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), certain substances may interact with Klonopin. Because of this, those taking Klonopin should avoid the following as adverse effects can occur:

• any CNS depressants including opioids
• supplements or vitamins
• over-the-counter painkillers
• other benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), and alprazolam (Xanax)
• alcohol
• stimulants

In addition, Klonopin should not be combined with other antidepressants unless prescribed by your primary healthcare doctor. Certain selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may interfere with one’s mental health, leading to serious problems such as psychosis, hallucinations, or suicidal thoughts.

Klonopin Overdose

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), combining Klonopin and other benzodiazepines with opioids can lead to the risk of overdose. In addition to this, an increased risk of a life-threatening Klonopin overdose may take place when the drug is taken in high doses.

Symptoms of a Klonopin overdose may include:

• extreme sleepiness
• respiratory depression
• severe confusion
• seizures
• coma
• death

If you suspect a Klonopin overdose has occurred, contact 911 immediately and seek urgent medical attention.

Klonopin Addiction Treatment

Accredited substance abuse treatment programs can help you or a loved one overcome prescription drug use. Treatment options for Klonopin addiction include medical detox, behavioral therapy, group therapy, and other evidence-based practices.

To learn how our healthcare professionals treat benzodiazepine addiction in an inpatient setting, please contact Ohio Recovery Center today.