Klonopin is the brand name for the medication clonazepam, a potent benzodiazepine prescribed for conditions such as panic disorders and seizures. While many people associate the highest available dose with a white pill, several variations exist, including generic brands and different formulations, making proper identification a critical aspect of medication safety. Always consult a medical professional before starting, stopping, or altering your medication regimen.
The Brand-Name White Klonopin Tablet
Produced exclusively by Roche Laboratories, brand-name Klonopin tablets have a distinct appearance. A brand-name white Klonopin is specifically a 2 mg tablet. To confirm its identity, you should look for the following characteristics:
- Color: White, round, and scored.
- Imprints: A unique K-shaped perforation with an imprint of "2" on one side and "ROCHE" on the other.
This specific combination of color, shape, and imprint is exclusive to the brand-name 2 mg Klonopin tablet, making it reliably identifiable.
White Generic Clonazepam Tablets
Because the generic version of Klonopin, clonazepam, is produced by numerous pharmaceutical companies, its appearance can vary significantly depending on the manufacturer. Many companies produce a white 2 mg clonazepam tablet, but the imprints will be different from the brand-name version.
- Manufacturer-specific imprints: Examples include "TEVA/834," "93 over 834," or "M C15," which all denote a white 2 mg clonazepam tablet.
- Other strengths: Some generic manufacturers may produce white clonazepam tablets in other dosages, though 2 mg is common.
This variability is why it is essential to check the imprint and not rely solely on color and shape when identifying your medication. A pharmacist can provide a medication guide with each prescription detailing the exact appearance of your pills.
The White Klonopin Orally Disintegrating Wafer
Klonopin also comes in an orally disintegrating tablet, or wafer, which dissolves rapidly on the tongue. These wafers are also white but can come in a range of strengths, with the dosage imprinted on one side.
Dosages for white Klonopin wafers:
- 0.125 mg, imprinted with "1/8".
- 0.25 mg, imprinted with "1/4".
- 0.5 mg, imprinted with "1/2".
- 1 mg, imprinted with "1".
- 2 mg, imprinted with "2".
Because of the array of strengths available in the same color and form, verifying the specific imprint is critical for taking the correct dosage.
Klonopin Dosages and Corresponding Colors
To avoid confusion, it's helpful to be aware of the standard color-coding for brand-name Klonopin tablets, as well as the variability in generics.
Dosage (mg) | Brand Color | Generic Colors (examples) | Brand Imprint (Tablet) |
---|---|---|---|
0.5 mg | Orange, round | Yellow, orange | K-shape + "1/2" + "ROCHE" |
1 mg | Blue, round | Blue, green | K-shape + "1" + "ROCHE" |
2 mg | White, round | White, green | K-shape + "2" + "ROCHE" |
Potential Risks and Dependence
Klonopin, or clonazepam, is a central nervous system depressant and a Schedule IV controlled substance due to its potential for misuse and dependence. Physical dependence can develop, and abruptly stopping the medication can cause severe withdrawal symptoms, including:
- Anxiety and panic attacks.
- Insomnia.
- Tremors and muscle cramps.
- Seizures.
- Hallucinations.
Due to these risks, a gradual dose reduction, or tapering, under medical supervision is the only safe method for discontinuing the medication. Misuse is particularly dangerous when combined with other depressants like alcohol or opioids, and can lead to severe sedation, respiratory depression, coma, or even death.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Medication Safety
Understanding what mg is a white Klonopin involves more than simply checking the color. While a brand-name white Klonopin tablet is consistently 2 mg, white generic versions and wafers can come in various strengths with different imprints, requiring careful verification. Always use a reliable pill identifier or consult your pharmacist to confirm your medication based on its unique imprint and dosage. Adhering strictly to your doctor's prescription is essential to avoid health risks associated with incorrect dosing or abrupt discontinuation. For further reading on safe medication practices, consult the official MedlinePlus drug information page for clonazepam.