Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine medication used to treat seizure disorders and panic disorder. Like other benzodiazepines, clonazepam is a Schedule IV controlled substance, as it has recognized medical uses and some potential for abuse and dependence.
- Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine, a Schedule IV controlled substance.
- Clonazepam is a controlled substance as it has the potential for abuse and dependence.
- As a controlled substance, clonazepam can only be obtained with a prescription, which will be limited in its duration and number of refills.
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Federal classification: Clonazepam as a Schedule IV drug
Clonazepam is listed as a Schedule IV controlled substance in the United States Controlled Substances Act. [1]
The Act lists substances from Schedule I-V, depending on their abuse and dependence potential and whether or not they have recognized medical uses. Schedule I substances are deemed the most dangerous in terms of abuse and dependence potential and have no medicinal purpose, while Schedule V substances are deemed to have the least potential for abuse and dependence. [2]
Why is clonazepam controlled?
Clonazepam is a Schedule IV controlled substance as it has recognized medical uses, including treating seizure disorders and panic disorder. It has some potential for abuse and dependence, although it is deemed less potentially harmful than substances in Schedules I-III.
Clonazepam use can lead to the development of physical dependence within weeks of prescribed use, which can result in severe and even life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. [3]
As a Schedule IV controlled substance, clonazepam prescriptions can be refilled a maximum of five times or within a maximum of six months' time limit, whichever occurs first. These rules help to reduce the risk of misuse and diversion of clonazepam. [4]
Is clonazepam a narcotic?
Narcotics are opioid medications (in the same class as morphine and codeine) that manage moderate to severe pain. As such, clonazepam is not a narcotic, as it is not an opioid and is used for anxiolytic and anticonvulsant effects. [5]
However, like narcotics, clonazepam is a drug of abuse that is misused for its effects and can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction. [1]
Legal risks of misuse or illegal distribution
Clonazepam is a widely misused drug. Some people who are prescribed clonazepam treatment develop a dependence or addiction to the medication, potentially leading to its misuse. Additionally, some people use clonazepam recreationally or alongside other substances to create enhanced effects. [1]
Because it is a prescription drug, some people who share or sell clonazepam obtain the medication through legal prescriptions. Sometimes people seek prescriptions from multiple physicians, known as ‘doctor shopping’, in order to obtain large quantities of the drug to misuse or sell illicitly. [1]
It is illegal to possess clonazepam without a prescription or to sell the drug to others. Doing so can result in large fines and prison time. Penalties vary from state to state. However, it is a nationwide law that clonazepam possession is illegal without a prescription. [6]
Safe use guidelines and avoiding dependence
Clonazepam should be used exactly as directed by the prescribing physician. It is important never to take a larger dose or more frequent doses than prescribed, or to continue using the medication after treatment has been discontinued. People who misuse clonazepam may be at increased risk of harm and dependence.
Dependence can develop after just weeks of use. As such, it is not recommended to use clonazepam as a long-term treatment option if alternatives are available. For panic disorder, the advised maximum treatment duration is 9 weeks. [7]
For seizure disorders, long-term and high-dose clonazepam treatment might be medically necessary. This increases the risk of dependence and can lead to dangerous withdrawal symptoms with treatment discontinuation, especially if it is abruptly stopped. When stopping clonazepam, it is important to follow the prescribing physician’s recommendations and gradual tapering. [7]
It is also advised to avoid the use of opioids while using clonazepam, as this can increase the risk of severe effects, such as respiratory depression and coma. [3]
Risks and management: What to do if you or someone misuses clonazepam
Misusing clonazepam can increase the risk of adverse effects, overdose, and addiction. This can lead to severe and sometimes life-threatening consequences.
Signs of clonazepam overdose can include: [3][7]
- Slurred speech
- Impaired coordination
- Weakness and drowsiness
- Trouble breathing
- Changes in heart rate
- Cardiac arrest
- Loss of consciousness
In the event of clonazepam overdose, call 911 immediately, as urgent medical care may be required.
People misusing clonazepam may benefit from professional support to reduce and stop use. Those who have developed a severe dependence might need support with managing withdrawal symptoms, as clonazepam withdrawal can be dangerous and sometimes life-threatening. [3]
Treatment options include inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs, medications, therapies, and support groups.
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