Last Updated: October 28, 2022

Klonopin (clonazepam) is a controlled medication prescribed to treat panic disorder and seizures. It belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines. It works by increasing the action of the brain chemical GABA, which reduces nerve excitability and produces a calming effect.

Do You Have to Taper off Klonopin?

The effectiveness of Klonopin has not been sufficiently studied for a period of more than nine weeks. The long-term use of benzodiazepines, including Klonopin, can lead to undesirable consequences like poor memory, depression and dependence. 

Consuming this medication for several weeks or longer can lead to tolerance, meaning that larger doses of the drug are required to produce the same effect. When tolerance develops, the individual is at an increased risk for dependence, addiction and overdose. At this point, it may be beneficial to the patient’s health to stop taking the drug, but this would be done through a taper.

Risk of Stopping Klonopin Cold Turkey

If Klonopin is stopped abruptly or if the dose is reduced too quickly, an individual will experience withdrawal. Klonopin withdrawal symptoms can occur after only two weeks of treatment or if you stop abruptly. The symptoms that may occur as a result include:

• Psychosis
• Hallucinations
• Mood swings
• Tremor and shakiness
• Abdominal pain
• Muscle cramps
• Insomnia
• Seizures

Benefits of Tapering off Klonopin

The longer a patient has used Klonopin and the higher the dose, the more likely that person will experience withdrawal symptoms. When tapering is performed under the supervision of a physician, the withdrawal symptoms an individual experiences can be minimized or altogether avoided. 

The biggest risk when stopping this medication cold turkey is seizures. Unlike other withdrawal symptoms that may be painful and uncomfortable, experiencing seizures from abruptly discontinuing the medication can be fatal. A physician knows how much and how rapidly Klonopin can be tapered to prevent unwanted fatal effects like seizures.

Klonopin Taper Schedule

Tapering off Klonopin should be tailored to each individual; however, a general rule is that the dose can be reduced initially by 10 to 25%. The dose may be further reduced by 10 to 25% every one to two weeks. An example Klonopin taper could look like:

Example of Clonazepam Taper Schedule (Patient taking total daily dose of 3.5 mg)

Week 1		0.5 mg in the morning, then 1 mg three times daily
Week 2	Decrease dose by 25%	1 mg three times daily
Week 3		0.5 mg in the morning, then 1 mg twice daily
Week 4	Decrease dose by 25%	0.5 mg twice daily and 1 mg at bedtime (at this point, the total daily dose is cut by about ½)
Weeks 5 to 8	Hold dose for 1 month	Continue at 2 mg per day
Weeks 9 to 10		0.5 mg three times daily
Weeks 11 to 12	Decrease dose by 25%	0.5 mg twice daily
Weeks 13 to 14	Decrease dose by 25%	0.5 mg once daily
Week 15		Discontinue

Factors That Affect a Klonopin Tapering Schedule

A variety of factors can influence how quickly or slowly Klonopin can be tapered. The most important component is how long an individual was taking the medicine and how high the daily dose was. Generally speaking, the dose may be tapered more rapidly (until 1 mg is reached) for patients on higher doses of Klonopin.

Individuals who are worried about stopping their medication or who have failed tapers in the past may require a slower taper. Patients who are using other drugs, like an opioid, or who have a substance use disorder may also require a slower taper or a medical detox.

Klonopin Taper Side Effects

Side effects may occur while tapering off Klonopin, particularly if the dose is decreased too quickly. These side effects that may be experienced are: 

• Anxiety
• Shaking or trembling
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Inability to sleep
• Sweating
• Increased heart rate/palpitations
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches

It is important to note that a large rapid reduction in dose can lead to severe withdrawal, including seizures. 

Can You Self-Taper off Klonopin?

A Klonopin tapering should always be done under the direct supervision of a licensed medical professional. Not only can withdrawal symptoms be painful; they can also be life-threatening. The safest way to come off Klonopin is through detoxification at an accredited rehabilitation facility. The health care professionals at these centers can ensure that withdrawal symptoms are diminished or avoided. Tapers are most successful when accompanied by behavioral therapy, which a rehab facility can provide.

Benefits of a Medical Detox Program for Klonopin Tapering

A medical detox program is designed to help the body gradually remove the harmful substance from itself. During this process, medications may be administered to help relieve any pain or discomfort that may arise. The individual is monitored to ensure that any health issues from withdrawal or co-occurring conditions can be promptly addressed. 

The Recovery Village Columbus is a licensed rehabilitation center that offers unmatched care to anyone seeking help to taper off clonazepam (Klonopin). Our team of accomplished and empathetic health care professionals is uniquely trained to make the detoxification process as seamless as possible. If you or someone you know needs help tapering off Klonopin or treating a Klonopin addiction, contact us today.