Using drugs is a dangerous game, and those dangers are only heightened when the drugs are mixed. Klonopin and Xanax hold these same dangers when they are combined. Substances are often mixed to enhance the effects of one drug with the other.
The dangers associated with this practice are heightened compared to using a single substance. Those who use these substances together should seek professional help to prevent devastating results.
Klonopin and Xanax: A Risky Combination
Klonopin and Xanax are benzodiazepine medications. Xanax is the brand name for alprazolam, and both medications are used in the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders. Klonopin is the brand name for a medication called clonazepam which is available in different dosages, ranging from .5 mg to 2 mg.
Both drugs are also classified as benzodiazepine tranquilizers and affect the central nervous system, or CNS. These medications inhibit and reduce activity in the brain, making them effective for treating conditions like anxiety and panic disorders.
Due to the nature of these medications, mixing them can lead to severe impacts to the individual and their lifestyle. The way the medications interact with someone’s brain activity can be dangerous when they are mixed. This practice can cause effects on the brain that can lead to overdose, both fatal and nonfatal.
Identifying Klonopin and Xanax Abuse
Like any other drug, Klonopin and Xanax abuse in an individual can be identified by loved ones. The individual abusing the substances will generally exhibit some telling behaviors that could be indicative of a problem.
These behaviors can include, but are not limited to things like drowsiness at inappropriate times, engaging in risky activities, running out of medication before they are supposed to, and doctor shopping.
Other behaviors that could be indicative of abusing these medications can include:
- Changes in appearance
- Respiratory infections
- Blurred vision
- Weakness
- Slurred speech
- Lack of coordination
- Dizziness
Short and Long-Term Effects of Combining Klonopin and Xanax
The way that Klonopin and Xanax affect the CNS can result in negative results. The short-term effects of combining these drugs can include a euphoric rush or “high” feeling, appetite suppression, impaired memory and cognition, and poor motor skills. Fatigue, slurred speech, drowsiness and slowed breathing are also short-term effects of mixing these drugs.
Long-term effects of these drugs can result in tolerance toward these substances. As the tolerance builds, the individual could begin using more and more of the drug to feel the same effects they once did. As more and more of the substances are used, the body then develops a dependence on them. Long-term effects of combining Klonopin and Xanax include addiction. Addiction to these substances can be fatal due to overdose.
Using these substances in conjunction with one another can affect the CNS to the point that it cannot self-regulate back to normal and the person overdoses. Without proper medical care, this can be fatal. Other long-term effects can include organ damage, depression, suicidal thoughts, as well as severe impacts on their personal life. Family structures, jobs, and school can all be affected by abusing these drugs.
Klonopin and Xanax Withdrawal
Withdrawal from any substance is highly uncomfortable and unpleasant for anyone who has to go through it. Klonopin and Xanax are no different. Detox from these substances can be extremely challenging, and the dangers associated with detoxing from these substances can be fatal.
Detox from these drugs should be monitored by professionals who can ensure an individual’s safety and comfort through this process. Withdrawal from these substances can have dangerous effects on the individual. The symptoms of withdrawal due to these substances include tremors, confusion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, insomnia and worsening anxiety and depression.
More severe symptoms can include seizures and hallucinations. Some of these withdrawal symptoms can be dangerous if left unmonitored and untreated. It is best to seek professional help for anyone who is struggling with these substances to prevent dangerous repercussions.
Treatment for Klonopin and Xanax
The good news is that there is treatment available for those who are struggling with these substances. Klonopin and Xanax abuse and addiction is a treatable condition, and if done right with the proper care, successful recovery is possible. Undergoing detox is a vital component of treatment.
Once the detox process is completed, an individual can really dig into the root causes of their substance abuse and begin learning new and healthy coping skills for situations that may arise. Through trauma therapy and other therapies such as CBT and DBT, an individual can begin to learn how to handle life stressors without using substances to cope. Recovery is possible, and treatment can make a difference in the success of the person’s recovery.
Recovery is Possible
Klonopin and Xanax are dangerous substances, especially when mixed together. These substances can take a toll physically and mentally on the individual using them. For those using these substances, there is a way out from under them. If you or a loved one are struggling, we can help. At Louisville Addiction Center we offer personalized care for individuals to begin recovery from addiction to substances like Xanax and Klonopin.
Call us today and take the first step to a better life.
502-586-4554
