Can you drink alcohol with Clonazepam (Klonopin)?
Here is what the FDA-approved label for Clonazepam (Klonopin) actually says about alcohol — transcribed, not a secondhand guess.
Clonazepam and alcohol, from the label
Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine and CNS depressant, and the label repeatedly addresses alcohol. It states the CNS-depressant action of benzodiazepines may be potentiated by alcohol, and directs that patients be warned about concomitant use of alcohol or other CNS-depressant drugs during therapy. The boxed warning and Abuse/Misuse sections note that benzodiazepine abuse and misuse commonly involve concomitant alcohol, which is associated with an increased frequency of serious adverse outcomes including respiratory depression, overdose, and death; the label advises avoiding or minimizing concomitant use of CNS depressants.
Frequently asked questions
Can you drink alcohol while taking Clonazepam?
The FDA label advises against it. Clonazepam and alcohol interact (summarized above), and the label directs avoiding or minimizing alcohol while taking it. Confirm with your prescriber or pharmacist for your situation.
How long after Clonazepam can you drink alcohol?
There is no single number that fits every drug, and the safe gap depends on why the two interact — a drug that adds to alcohol's sedation is a concern while it is still in your system, while a disulfiram-type reaction (like metronidazole's) is avoided during treatment and for a labeled period after the last dose. Follow the specific guidance above and ask the prescriber who wrote the prescription; do not guess a window.
What happens if you drink on Clonazepam?
The specific effect is described above, from the label. In most cases it means additive drowsiness and impaired coordination, or added strain on an organ the drug already affects — worse with more alcohol and in older adults. If you feel unwell after mixing the two, stop drinking and seek advice; call 911 for trouble breathing, fainting, or a rapid irregular heartbeat.
More guides for Clonazepam
Source
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The alcohol interaction is transcribed from this drug’s FDA-approved label. This is general reference information, not medical advice. If you drink and take medication regularly, talk to your prescriber or pharmacist about your specific situation.