Klonopin Taper Schedule

Jump to a section
Table of contents
Expand list

Abruptly stopping Klonopin use, especially after using it for a prolonged amount of time, can lead to dangerous and life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. Tapering off klonopin alleviates the withdrawal symptoms and makes stopping klonopin much easier. In this article we will discuss how to taper off klonopin.

What is Klonopin?

Klonopin, a brand name for Clonazepam, is a type of Benzodiazepine - a class of drugs which slows down the nervous system and brain activity. Benzos are used to treat mental health conditions such as anxiety, as well as brain-related conditions like seizures. Like all benzos, Klonopin is a controlled substance, since it can be abused, and the outcomes of Klonopin misuse are extremely dangerous. Klonopin can be amazingly helpful when used correctly, but it can also be dangerous due to the following possibilities:

  • Taking Klonopin without a prescription
  • Becoming dependent on the drug after some time.

How To Wean Off Klonopin

The best and safest option is to seek advice from a medical professional, or enroll in a rehab facility to receive proper guidance and personal attention. When in a rehab facility, a personal Klonopin taper schedule that will best suit your personal needs and situation will be prepared by a medical expert, since there’s no ‘one size fits all’ approach to tapering off of benzodiazepines. Several factors are involved when planning the taper process, including:

  • How long Klonopin was taken for
  • The dosage
  • Whether it was prescribed or taken illegally
  • Why Klonopin was being taken
  • Personal factors: personality, lifestyle, past experiences etc.

Often, during tapering, some changes will have to be made in accordance with your progress - e.g., the schedule might be adjusted to a faster or slower rate. Hence, it’s vital to consult with an expert in this field for the most appropriate Clonazepam taper chart, and to receive the necessary care and guidance.

Many people wish to know how to get off Klonopin without withdrawal symptoms, but this unfortunately isn’t entirely possible. While following a suitable taper schedule will definitely lessen the withdrawal symptoms, you will still experience them to some extent, especially if you’re addicted to the drug.

How Does Tapering Work?

When a person is dependent on a drug, the body relies on it to be able to function. Tapering means slowly decreasing the dosage of the drug as opposed to quitting cold-turkey, giving the system time to adjust to the absence of the drug.

Benzodiazepines can pose real dangers, and even be lethal if you quit suddenly. Tapering slowly is always safer, as withdrawal symptoms can be extremely tough. Some distressing symptoms include:

  • Increased anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Mood swings
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Tremors
  • Muscle pain
  • Agitation
  • Loss of appetite
  • Seizures 

Klonopin Taper Schedule

As mentioned previously in this article, there are factors that influence a successful taper. These are carefully taken into consideration when planning your Klonopin taper schedule. For example:

  • In general, if the drug was used for less than 8 weeks, tapering should last 2 weeks or less. In a case where the dosage was high, it’s recommended to taper more slowly.
  • If Klonopin was used for up to 6 months, tapering should last for around 4 weeks.
  • For a year of using Klonopin, tapering should last about 8 weeks. For over a year of using Klonopin, tapering should last between 6-18 months.
  • For people on higher dosages, the initial dose might be reduced up to 30%, and then reduced by another 10% weekly, until the person will be able to stop taking the drug altogether.

The general guideline is to decrease the dose by about 10%-25% weekly. E.g., for someone that’s taking a 40mg pill daily:

  • Week 1: 35 mg daily
  • Week 2: 30 mg daily
  • Week 3: 25mg daily
  • Week 4: 20mg daily
  • Week 5- 8: Continue at 20mg daily
  • Week 9-10: 15mg daily
  • Week 11-12: 10 mg daily
  • Week 13-14: 5mg daily
  • Week 15: Discontinue

Do not attempt a Klonopin taper by yourself. Consult professionals instead. 

Clonazepam Taper Chart

Duration of Klonopin Use

Taper Length

2-8 weeks

Up to 2 weeks

8 weeks to 6 months

Up to a month

6 months to 1 year

Up to 8 weeks

Up to 1 year

6-18 months

 

How to Taper Off 0.5mg Clonazepam:

A 0.5mg tablet of Klonopin is the smallest available tablet, which makes it difficult to create a smooth taper. An expert in this field will be able to create the right taper schedule for you based on the many factors that influence the tapering process for Klonopin. (See above) 

Klonopin Tapering in a Medical Detox

In a medical detox center, one can taper off of Klonopin successfully as professional guidance is constantly available. Vitals can be constantly monitored, and the schedule appropriately adjusted when necessary. Moreover, medication can be administered to help manage the withdrawal symptoms. Patients are well cared for, with nutritious meals as-well as counseling and behavioral therapy provided to assist in addiction recovery. Once detox has been completed and the drug is no longer in the system, it is highly recommended to join a high-quality inpatient rehab facility. Here, one can benefit from therapy and counseling from highly skilled mental health professionals, as well as peer support. In an inpatient rehab, one isn’t distracted by outside negative influences and technology. Instead, one enjoys a healing environment of calm and tranquility that aids the recovery process.

Treatment for Klonopin Addiction

Are you ready to cleanse your system from Klonopin? Are you seeking kind-hearted, experienced and top-rated professionals for expert guidance on your journey to success and sobriety? Contact Avenues Recovery Center. We will help you get through the Klonopin tapering process in the best way possible. Our highly skilled and dedicated staff will ensure that you will have a positive and safe experience. We create personalized treatment and taper plans to ensure comfort and success. Don't hesitate, contact us today. Our amazing team is waiting to help you turn your life around, and support you every step of the way to sobriety.

Check your insurance

Thanks,
We received your insurance request!

We will get back to you shortly. While you wait... you may find our resource blog helpful. Take a look below:

VIEW ALL ADDICTION RESOURCES