Does Klonopin (Clonazepam) Affect Fertility?

Mariam asked

My husband and I want to try and have another baby. I have regular periods still but I've been taking Klonopin (clonazepam) for the last 3 days. Would that interfere with us trying to conceive?

Answer

Klonopin (clonazepam) is a benzodiazepine medication indicated for the treatment of several types of seizures and panic disorders.

It, along with other medications in the benzodiazepine class, is not associated with infertility or any changes in ovulation in females.

It does, however, have some reported sexual side effects that occur infrequently.

These sexual side effects include:

• Delayed ejaculation (<= 2%)
• Impotence (erectile dysfunction) (<= 3%)
• Libido decrease (0—3%)
• Libido increase (0.1—1%)
• Dysmenorrhea (painful period/cramping)

Klonopin And Pregnancy

Although Klonopin in most cases shouldn't affect your ability to become pregnant, it is important to discuss with your doctor your use of the medication if you are planning on conceiving.

Klonopin is a pregnancy category D medication, which is defined as follows:

"There is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks."

Studies have indicated that Klonopin is teratogenic and use during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of congenital malformation. Reported birth defects include:

• Cleft palate
• Open eyelid
• Fused sternebrae
• Limb defects

In addition, infants can become exhibit signs of benzodiazepine withdrawal or overexposure upon birth, which includes the following symptoms:

• Hypothermia
• Hypotonia (decreased muscle tone)
• Respiratory depression
• Difficulty feeding

Stopping Klonopin

You should speak with your doctor regarding how to safely discontinue Klonopin if you choose to do so. In general, it should not be stopped abruptly as this increases the risk of withdrawal symptoms, which include:

• Sweating
• Anxiety
• Increases heart rate
• Muscle cramps
• Insomnia
• Agitation
• Nausea/Vomiting

If possible, it is generally recommended to slowly decrease your dose over a period of a few weeks to months before stopping completely.

Final Words

It is unlikely that Klonopin is causing infertility problems in your situation unless it is secondary to the uncommon sexual side effects of the drug (e.g. loss of libido).

It is important to discuss with your doctor the issues you are experiencing and whether or not Klonopin should be discontinued in anticipation of becoming pregnant due to the risks.