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Clobazam (also recognized by the brand names Onfi, Frisium, Sympazan, and Urbanol) is a benzodiazepine drug authorized to treat anxiety and agitation. It is also approved for the treatment of Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Clobazam is classed as a Schedule 4 controlled substance by the US Drug Enforcement Administration.
In this article, we provide some essential information about Clobazam addiction.
What Is Clobazam
Clobazam belongs to a category of drugs called benzodiazepines. It starts working in the body fairly quickly, but also remains in the system for an extended time.
As a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, it increases the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the CNS and calms overactivity in the brain.
Indications for Use
- Anxiety
- Bipolar disorder
- Lennox-Gastaut syndrome
- Persistent myofascial pain
- Muscle spasms
- Restless leg syndrome
- Secondary epilepsy
Clobazam Analogs
Clonazepam has the most similar effect. Other benzos also have sedative and anticonvulsant effects.
The Effects of Clobazam Abuse
A major side effect of Clobazam abuse is that the body builds up tolerance for the medication. As the patient increases their dose, their chance of overdose will also increase.
Short-Term Effects
- Decreased muscle coordination and capacity to carry out tasks
- Difficulty performing complex skills, such as driving a car
- Impaired higher brain functions, which include learning and memory
- Paradoxical effects consist of elevated anxiety and aggression
Long-Term Effects
- General cognitive decline, including learning and memory difficulties
- Difficulty performing routine tasks
- Poorer sleep quality
- Development of physical dependence
Symptoms and Signs of Clobazam Use
People who use benzodiazepines recreationally generally tend to take larger quantities of the drug and use it in combination with other substances, especially alcohol. Taking alcohol and Clobazam together increases the CNS depressant and side effects of both substances.
Some of the withdrawal symptoms of Clobazam are because of a rebound effect, which means that the symptoms that are managed by the drug, return with increased intensity.
Physical Symptoms
- Tremors
- Insomnia
- Seizures
Psychological Symptoms
- Hallucinations
- Difficulty concentrating and/or remembering facts or events
- Depression
- Aggression
Behavioral Symptoms
- Continuing drug use, even if a person is aware of the dangers involved
- Strained relationships with family and friends
- Taking Clobazam with other substances
- Experience intense withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit
- Taking higher drug doses
- Try to buy Clobazam illegally
Clobazam Addiction Treatment Options
Clobazam addiction treatment is designed to heal the body from its drug dependency. The act of cleaning the body of Clobazam is known as detox.
Detoxification is a delicate process, especially when dealing with such powerful benzodiazepines. A reduction strategy, known as a tapering plan involves reducing the dose gradually over some time. Another option is to completely replace Clobazam with another medication so that the body’s supply of the drug is not forcibly restricted. Over time smaller doses of the new medicine are used.
Detoxification must be supplemented by psychotherapy and other rehabilitation measures to prevent a relapse.
Medical Treatment for Clobazam Addiction
Medical detox is the best way to remove Clobazam from the body in a healthy and safe way. It also helps reduce withdrawal discomfort, which plays an important role in reducing the chances of relapse, but also in the event of a Clobazam overdose.
While tapering is the most successful way to detoxify safely, medications are prescribed during this time to relieve withdrawal symptoms.
Inpatient Treatment vs. Outpatient Treatment for Clobazam Addiction
Inpatient rehabilitation is an intensive care program that requires patients to reside at the facility for the duration of the addiction treatment.
This service is recommended for people with a high dependence on Clobazam. It is easier to focus on recovery during an inpatient program because the patient is protected from outside distractions.
Outpatient services are more flexible, and patients can travel to the facility from their office, school, or home. It is best suited for busy people with little dependence on Clobazam.
Process and Stages of Clobazam Addiction Treatment at Dr.Vorobjev Clinic
Addiction treatment at our clinic consists of several stages:
Diagnosis of Clobazam Addiction
Early in the program, it is important to communicate the dose, frequency, and duration of Clobazam use to ensure proper treatment levels.
Before starting a detox, a series of tests will be performed and an assessment of the patient’s addiction and overall health. This will give an indication of how difficult the withdrawal symptoms can be.
Clobazam Detoxification Treatment
The goal of the treatment is to completely remove the drug from the body with minimal side effects or withdrawal symptoms. Special drugs are used for this purpose, which make the process comfortable and safe. That is why it is important to go through detoxification at a specialized clinic. Home detox is not only hard, but also dangerous.
Therapy
After clearing the drug from the body, it is important to undergo therapy for the best results. A psychologist will help patients identify the root cause of their addiction and reinforce the correct behavioral patterns.
Aftercare
Support programs are important to control sobriety and prevent relapses.
Average Length of Clobazam Addiction Treatment
Treatment duration may vary and depend on factors, such as how long the patient has been abusing the drug, the number of doses, how often it is used, the method of administration, and their mental or physical condition.
Effectiveness of Treatment for Clobazam Addiction
Detoxification combined with psychotherapy offers excellent results to overcome Clobazam addiction. Using advanced approaches and methods such as physical therapy, acupuncture, xenon inhalation or oxygen therapy, can reduce cravings and restore impaired body functions. 85% of our clinic’s patients never return to abuse benzos.
Cost of Clobazam Addiction Treatment
The cost of Clobazam addiction treatment depends on the program and the length of stay at the rehabilitation center. The cost of treatment programs start from 2,700 €.
Doctors
Our clinic has professional addictologists, psychologists and intensive care specialists from around the world. We are constantly developing and improving our knowledge and skills to achieve the best possible results.
Patents and Certificates
We provide the best care for Clobazam patients at Dr.Vorobjev Clinic and we believe this differentiates us from other facilities. As Drug, Alcohol, and Addiction Counselor Certified (DAACC) specialists, we promote successful recovery. Our certified and registered addiction specialists will support you to start a new life without addiction.
