klonopin???!!help - Panic Disorders Message Board

ym86 · 06-20-2003, 06:43 PM

my doctor just prescribed klonopin for me 4 times a day. i havent started them yet im sorta scared to for some reason. he said they will help me relax.what did they do for you ......any response????????????thanks.

Jennita · 06-20-2003, 10:19 PM

It's a benzodiazepine, and they can carry dependancy/tolerance/withdrawal issues so it would be wise to only use them on an "as needed" basis (for a panic attack) and a very low dose. Daily regular use could cause "dependancy", which is physical in nature so it isn't technically "addiction", but it would cause alot of problems like tolerance(drug stops working and you need higher doses) or withdrawal symptoms while taking the drug(tolerance withdrawals) or simply dependancy issues, which would be becoming ill when trying to get off the drug. Also, once you are on them regularly for awhile, you can't just stop all at once or risk seizures.

I would avoid this class of drugs if possible....

tempa · 06-21-2003, 06:38 AM

I have been on Klonopin before, I can tell you that it made me a little tired (I'm kinda thin) So to avoid that I would just take one at night! I was on .5mg (a low dose). I stopped taking the Klonopin. I preffer to take Ativan, it stays in your system for less time. So I just take it when I need it. Not all the time. If your doc thinks you need to take it through out the day then try breaking whatever dose he gave you in half untill you learn how it effects you (sleepy ect..) Then work your way up. Don't be afraid of these types of meds. the are safe and effective for panic and can feel like lifesavers in times of crisis.. I have been on Benzos. on and off for 10 years. And have never had problems with addiction or stopping them.. Good Luck! It can only help you..

Janik · 06-21-2003, 02:26 PM

Klonopin made me sleepy. It has a long half-life compared to other benzos, meaning it stays longer in your system, so you don't really need to be taking several doses during the day. That's usually done with short-life benzos like ativan or xanax.

Why was it prescribed to you and what is your dose?

hry33 · 06-21-2003, 06:25 PM

to ym86,
klonapin is a valium type med thats helpful for panic attacks and anxiety, its generally best taken as needed, 4 times a day sounds too often unless you are always panicky, what is your dose?