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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Can Klonopin Cause Short Term Memory Loss?

I have been taking 0.5 of Klonopin for insomnia for a little over a year and feel I m experiencing short term memory problems so I want to wean off of it but I understand the withdrawal symptoms may include reverse anxiety and insomnia. If so, how long can I expect these symptoms and what would be your recommendation for the weaning process?
Thu, 3 Nov 2016
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,
Thanks for posting in HCM.
I understand your concern.
Klonopin contains 'clonazepam', which is a benzodiazepine.
It is used to treat certain seizure disorders and also panic disorder in adults and children.
Common side effects with use of Klonopin include: upper respiratory tract infection, dizziness, depression, reduced intellectual ability, drowsiness and unsteady gait.
It is not known to be associated with short term memory loss.
Since Klonopin is a long acting medication (half life 30 to 40 hours), it would take a little while when you wean it off and you should gradually feel better.
Kindly seek medical advise regarding any form of unusual or unbearable symptoms when you encounter during the weaning process.
Hope the information provided would be helpful.
All the best.
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Can Klonopin Cause Short Term Memory Loss?

Hi, Thanks for posting in HCM. I understand your concern. Klonopin contains clonazepam , which is a benzodiazepine. It is used to treat certain seizure disorders and also panic disorder in adults and children. Common side effects with use of Klonopin include: upper respiratory tract infection, dizziness, depression, reduced intellectual ability, drowsiness and unsteady gait. It is not known to be associated with short term memory loss. Since Klonopin is a long acting medication (half life 30 to 40 hours), it would take a little while when you wean it off and you should gradually feel better. Kindly seek medical advise regarding any form of unusual or unbearable symptoms when you encounter during the weaning process. Hope the information provided would be helpful. All the best.