Can I take expired Clonazepam? 

In this concise article, we will address questions about taking expired Clonazepam, including aspects such as the potential risks associated with using expired Clonazepam, recommended actions if one has consumed such medication past its expiry date, the possibility of dependence on expired Clonazepam, potential adverse effects of Clonazepam usage, characteristics to identify spoiled Clonazepam, and how this medication should be stored.

Clonazepam has an expiration date, and it is not advisable to use it beyond that date.

The exact health risks linked to the consumption of expired Clonazepam cannot be definitively determined (1,2,3). 

If you unintentionally ingest expired Clonazepam, remain observant for symptoms and promptly seek medical assistance if you experience any unusual or persistent effects.

To store Clonazepam, ensure it is kept in its original container within a well-ventilated area (4,5).

Spoiled medication might display visual alterations and emit a strong odor. If you observe any noticeable changes in the characteristics of Clonazepam, refrain from taking the medication (6,7).

Can I take expired Clonazepam? 

It is not recommended to take expired Clonazepam. 

The expiration date on the medication label is an indication of when the drug is guaranteed to be effective and safe.

Although some medications can remain effective for an extended duration, beyond their expiration date, if it is not properly stored and exposed to extreme physical conditions, it may lose its effectiveness much earlier (1).

This is why the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strongly advises against taking any expired medication (2)

What are the dangers associated with using expired Clonazepam? 

Although Clonazepam may not be considered a dangerous medication if it expired recently, it should not be taken. 

There is a lack of research data available concerning the safety and effectiveness of expired Clonazepam, and no one, including the manufacturers, can definitively state the potential health risks associated with its usage (1,2,3).

So, a single tablet of expired Clonazepam can not help you achieve your desired therapeutic goals and there is no way to tell how many expired tablets would be equal to a single standard dose. 

Pay attention, you should not attempt to take a higher dose of expired Clonazepam. Doing so may increase the risk of overdose.

It is also important to note that Clonazepam should not be paired with anything that can affect your brain, like alcohol, opioids and benzodiazepines, even if you think you are taking a less potent expired Clonazepam (4,5). 

What to do if you have taken expired Clonazepam?

A dose of recently expired Clonazepam may not harm you. However, remain vigilant for symptoms and seek medical attention if you experience any unusual issues. 

As a general rule of thumb, you shouldn’t take expired medications, as you never know what side effects they might end up causing (1,2,5). 

So, you should talk to your healthcare provider for a new prescription as expired Clonazepam may cause dependence.

Although there are no studies specifically addressing the dependence on expired medications, it is understood that if expired Clonazepam still retains efficacy, it can potentially cause dependence. 

According to the information provided in the package insert, Clonazepam may lead to physical dependence through continuous therapy, resulting in withdrawal signs and symptoms upon sudden discontinuation or significant dosage reduction of the medication. 

Moreover, tolerance to Clonazepam may develop from continued therapy.

Acute withdrawal signs and symptoms associated with Clonazepam have included abnormal involuntary movements; anxiety; blurred vision; depersonalization; depression; derealization; dizziness; fatigue; gastrointestinal adverse reactions (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, decreased appetite); headache; and others. 

More severe acute withdrawal signs and symptoms, including life-threatening reactions, have included catatonia, convulsions, delirium tremens, depression, hallucinations, mania, psychosis, seizures, and suicidality (5).

What are the common adverse effects of Clonazepam?

Some adverse effects associated with the use of Clonazepam include (4,5):

• Drowsiness
• Tiredness
• Dizziness
• Unsteadiness
• Problems with coordination
• Difficulty thinking or remembering
• Increased saliva
• Muscle or joint pain
• Frequent urination
• Blurred vision
• Changes in sex drive or erectile dysfunction

In addition to these, some adverse effects can be serious, such as (4,5):

• Rash
• Hives
• Swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Hoarseness
• Difficulty breathing

Talk to your doctor if you experience any unusual or persistent problems while taking this medication. 

How to identify spoiled Clonazepam?

Certain indicators may suggest that a medication has become spoiled, including (6,7):

• Packaging integrity: If the package is open or tampered with, exposing the medication to the environment, there is a high likelihood of medication degradation.
• Visible signs of deterioration: Discoloration, moisture damage, fungal or bacterial damage, or any other noticeable alteration of the medication.
• Strong and unusual odor.

How should Clonazepam be properly stored?

Keep this medication in its original container, tightly closed, and store it at room temperature, away from light, excess heat, and moisture (not in the bathroom).

It is crucial to keep all medications out of sight and reach of children, as certain containers may not be child-resistant (4).

Conclusion

In this concise article, we have answered questions about taking expired Clonazepam, including aspects such as the potential risks associated with using expired Clonazepam, recommended actions if one has consumed such medication past its expiry date, the possibility of dependence on expired Clonazepam, potential adverse effects of Clonazepam usage, characteristics to identify spoiled Clonazepam, and how this medication should be stored.KLONOPIN^® (clonazepam).  U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Reference ID: 5108498 [Internet] [updated 2023 Jan; cited 2023 Jun 26]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/017533s062lbl.pdf#page=24. 

References