Last Updated:
May 16th, 2025
Clobazam Addiction | Symptoms, Effects and Causes
What is clobazam?
Clobazam is a medication commonly prescribed to help manage epilepsy, particularly when seizures are difficult to control with other treatments. It belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines, which work by calming excessive activity in the brain that can lead to seizures.
Clobazam is often used alongside other anti-seizure medications to provide additional support in preventing or reducing the frequency of seizures. In some cases, it may also be prescribed for short-term relief of severe anxiety.
While effective, clobazam is generally used under close medical supervision due to the risk of dependence or side effects with long-term use.
Is clobazam addictive?
Clobazam can be addictive, and this is due to the way it affects the brain. As a benzodiazepine, clobazam enhances the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that reduces brain activity, promoting calmness and relaxation. While this makes it effective for managing seizures and anxiety, it also increases the potential for dependence.
Over time, the brain becomes accustomed to the drug’s effects and may struggle to function normally without it. This can lead to tolerance, where higher doses are needed to achieve the same results and dependence, where stopping clobazam can cause withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, restlessness or seizures. These factors contribute to its addictive potential, particularly with long-term or higher-than-prescribed use.
What are the signs of clobazam addiction?
Spotting the signs of clobazam addiction early is crucial for ensuring timely intervention, whether it’s for yourself or someone you care about. Addiction to clobazam can develop gradually, and without recognising the warning signs, it can worsen over time. By identifying behavioural, physical and psychological indicators, you can take the first steps toward addressing the problem and seeking the right support.
- Doctor shopping: In attempts to obtain more clobazam, individuals may visit multiple doctors to secure extra prescriptions.This behaviour is observed in countries with privatised healthcare systems.
- Secretive behaviour: Hiding clobazam use or lying about how much is being taken to avoid questions or judgement.
- Neglecting responsibilities: Prioritising clobazam use over work, family or social commitments.
- Increased focus on supply: Spending significant time and effort ensuring a steady availability of clobazam.
- Using clobazam in unsafe situations: Taking the drug before driving or in other risky scenarios, despite the potential dangers.
- Drowsiness or sedation: Persistent fatigue and a lethargic appearance from clobazam’s sedative effects.
- Slurred speech: Difficulty articulating words due to the drug’s impact on motor control.
- Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing shaking, nausea or heightened anxiety when clobazam is not taken.
- Coordination problems: Increased clumsiness or difficulty with balance caused by the drug’s effects on the nervous system.
- Changes in appetite or weight: Noticeable fluctuations in weight, often linked to clobazam’s impact on overall health.
- Heightened anxiety: Feeling more anxious or restless between doses, a common sign of dependency.
- Mood swings: Frequent and unpredictable changes in mood due to the drug’s influence on brain chemistry.
- Cravings for clobazam: A strong desire to take the drug, even when it’s not medically necessary.
- Memory issues: Difficulty recalling recent events or conversations as a result of cognitive impairment.
- Increased irritability: Becoming easily agitated or short-tempered, often tied to withdrawal or overuse.
Do I have a clobazam addiction?
It’s important to regularly check in with yourself when using clobazam, even if it’s being taken exactly as prescribed. Many people feel reassured by the fact that it’s a legal medication prescribed by a doctor, but this can lead to a false sense of security. What’s often overlooked is the level of care and self-awareness required when taking a medication like clobazam, given its potential for dependence.
Below are six questions that, when answered with “yes,” could indicate a developing or existing clobazam addiction.
- Do you feel anxious or uneasy when you haven’t taken clobazam?
- Have you ever taken clobazam in higher doses or more frequently than prescribed?
- Do you find yourself thinking about clobazam when you’re not taking it?
- Have you tried to stop taking clobazam and experienced withdrawal symptoms?
- Do you hide your clobazam use or feel ashamed about how much you take?
- Have you prioritised obtaining or using clobazam over other responsibilities or activities?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, it might be time to reflect on your relationship with clobazam and consider reaching out for professional guidance. Taking the step to address potential clobazam addiction can help prevent further challenges down the line.
How is a clobazam addiction treated?
Clobazam addiction can be treated through inpatient or outpatient programmes, depending on the severity of the addiction and the individual’s circumstances. For those with a severe addiction, inpatient treatment is highly recommended. This approach provides a structured, supportive environment where individuals can focus entirely on their recovery without outside distractions or triggers.
Treatment typically begins with an initial assessment, where healthcare professionals evaluate the individual’s physical and mental health to create a tailored plan. This is followed by detox, during which the body clears itself of clobazam. Withdrawal symptoms can be challenging during this phase, so professional support is crucial to manage them safely and reduce discomfort.
Once detox is complete, the focus shifts to therapy, which helps address the psychological aspects of addiction. Common approaches include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), group counselling and one-on-one sessions with trained therapists. These therapies aim to uncover the underlying causes of addiction, develop healthier coping mechanisms and rebuild self-confidence.
In many cases, holistic therapies such as yoga, art or meditation are included to support overall well-being and provide additional ways to manage stress.
Finally, aftercare services play a vital role in maintaining long-term recovery. These programmes provide ongoing support through counselling, support groups or follow-up sessions, helping individuals stay on track and prevent relapse.
What are the next steps?
If you or a loved one is struggling with clobazam addiction, the first step is recognising the need for help. Reach out to a trusted healthcare professional or a rehab centre for guidance on creating a tailored plan for recovery. Exploring your options for treatment is key to choosing the right path.
Our compassionate team are ready and available to take your call, and guide you towards lasting the lasting addiction recovery you deserve.
