Caroline asked
Can taking clonazepam (Klonopin) affect acid reflux, or the upper or lower esophageal sphincter? I took 0.5 mg one evening and the next morning my throat felt more raw than before. (I also had a period of time, two hours after taking the clonazepam, where I felt weaker and a bit breathless. Was this related?)
Answer
Klonopin (clonazepam), a benzodiazepine, has been reported to cause acid reflux in individuals taking the medication, although the frequency of this side effect isn't well known. It isn't thought to be overly common. In terms of gastrointestinal side effects, the following have been reported on clonazepam:
- Constipation
- Decrease in appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Gastrointestinal inflammation
- Stomach upset
- Pyrosis (heartburn)
- Dyspepsia (indigestion)
In addition, benzodiazepines are well known to cause dose-dependent respiratory depression. Respiratory depression can manifest as labored breathing or shortness of breath. This may explain your trouble breathing, especially if you are taking clonazepam in addition to other CNS depressants such as alcohol or opioids. If you are taking clonazepam and are having trouble breathing or other side effects, be sure to reach out to your doctor for evaluation.
