The “sleep challenge” viralized on social networks has put the use and side effects that the consumption of the drug clonazepam can cause under the magnifying glass.
The challenge, which began in Mexico and left 15 young people intoxicated at the end of January, consists of ingesting the drug and trying to fight against its tranquilizing effects. The winner of the challenge is the one who manages not to fall asleep.
“My son slept 14 hours, was drowsy and even vomited”: children and young people in Guayaquil affected by consuming clonazepam to meet a viral challenge
In Ecuador, the National Agency for Sanitary Regulation, Control and Surveillance (Arcsa) ordered the control of the sale of clonazepam in 12,000 pharmacies nationwide. This after the cases of children, adolescents and young people who are acquiring this drug were known.
But which family of drugs is clonazepam from?
The technical sheet prepared by the Mexico City Ministry of Health details that it is a benzodiazepine derivative with antiepileptic and anxiolytic properties.
Benzodiazepines are medications used primarily for the short-term treatment of disorders such as anxiety.
Its acquisition requires a prescription, which will be retained at the pharmacy.
‘Disconnection’ between parents and children causes adolescents and young people to practice viral challenges on social networks that are harmful to health
Clonazepam is contraindicated for people with a history of hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines, liver failure, kidney failure, respiratory problems, and eye conditions such as glaucoma.
Patients receiving doses of the drug should be carefully monitored due to their predisposition to habituation or addiction.
These are the side effects of clonazepam:
- Drowsiness
- dizziness
- loss of balance
- problems with coordination
- Difficulty thinking or remembering
- Increased saliva production
- Muscle or joint pain
- frequent urination
- Blurry vision
- Changes in sexual desire or ability.
These are the most serious side effects generated by the intake of the drug:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Difficulty breathing. (YO)
Source: Eluniverso
Mario Twitchell is an accomplished author and journalist, known for his insightful and thought-provoking writing on a wide range of topics including general and opinion. He currently works as a writer at 247 news agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the industry.
