Is Klonopin a Benzodiazepine?
Yes, Klonopin (clonazepam) is definitively a benzodiazepine medication. 1
Drug Classification
Clonazepam is explicitly classified as a benzodiazepine in FDA labeling, which states "Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine" in its official description section. 1
The FDA medication guide clearly identifies it as "a benzodiazepine medicine" and classifies it as a Schedule IV controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and dependence. 1
Mechanism of Action
Clonazepam functions as a long-acting benzodiazepine that promotes GABAergic inhibition by increasing the frequency of chloride channel opening in the central nervous system. 2
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine describes it as enhancing the activity of GABA, which is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. 2
Structural Classification
- Clonazepam is chemically designated as 5-(2-chlorophenyl)-1,3-dihydro-7-nitro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one, making it structurally related to other benzodiazepines including chlordiazepoxide, diazepam, and nitrazepam. 1, 3
Clinical Context
Because clonazepam is a benzodiazepine, it carries all the characteristic risks of this drug class, including potential for abuse, physical dependence, withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation, respiratory depression (especially when combined with opioids), and cognitive impairment. 1
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine notes that some patients may be hesitant to start clonazepam specifically "due to the negative stigma of benzodiazepines." 2