Taking opioids with central nervous system depressants like benzodiazepines, including clonazepam, significantly elevates the risk of a life-threatening overdose. This dangerous combination amplifies the depressant effects on breathing, leading to severe health consequences. It’s crucial to understand the interaction between these substances to ensure safety. For further information on polysubstance use, resources are available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
In 2021, benzodiazepines were involved in nearly 14% of opioid overdose fatalities. Benzodiazepines, often called “benzos,” are prescription sedatives used to treat anxiety and insomnia. Clonazepam (Klonopin) is a common type of benzodiazepine, alongside diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam (Xanax). These medications enhance the effects of GABA, a neurotransmitter that calms brain activity.
Alarmingly, benzodiazepines have been detected in the illicit opioid supply, suggesting that individuals might unknowingly be consuming benzodiazepines like clonazepam with illicit opioids.
The Danger of Co-Prescribing Clonazepam and Opioids
Every day, approximately 220 Americans succumb to opioid overdoses. Combining opioids with benzodiazepines, such as clonazepam, dramatically increases overdose risk. Both substance types induce sedation and respiratory depression – the primary cause of fatal overdoses – and impair cognitive function. Studies reveal that individuals using both opioids and benzodiazepines concurrently face a heightened risk of emergency room visits, hospital admissions for drug-related emergencies, and death from drug overdose.
For instance, research in North Carolina indicated that the overdose death rate in patients prescribed both medication types was ten times greater than those only receiving opioids. Another study involving U.S. veterans on opioid prescriptions found that benzodiazepine prescriptions were linked to an increased risk of fatal overdose, with the risk escalating with dosage.
The CDC’s Clinical Practice Guideline for Prescribing Opioids for Pain emphasizes the need for clinicians to exercise extreme caution when prescribing benzodiazepines with opioids, carefully weighing the benefits against the potential risks. Both opioids and benzodiazepines carry FDA “boxed warnings” highlighting the significant dangers of their combined use.
Individuals prescribed any medication must inform their healthcare providers about all substances and medications they are using. Consulting with healthcare teams about the risks associated with combining medications is crucial for managing and mitigating potential dangers.
