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Mental Health (Expert Forum)

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xanax VS klonopin

Answered by

Roger Gould, M.D. - Mental Health, Wellness

Questions posted in the Mental Health forum are being answered by Dr. Roger L. Gould, author of the Mastering Stress and Depression program and affiliated with the UCLA. Department of Psychiatry. Topics covered include anger, attention deficit disorder (ADD), bipolar disorder, dementia, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), learning disabilities, memory, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), panic, personality disorders, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia, stress, transitions, and work problems.

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MedHelp Member's Question

xanax VS klonopin

by brad20, Jan 02, 2002 12:00AM

Tags: xanax, Anxiety, mental, Health, Mental Health, concentration, Work, Panic Attack

i have been taking xanax for a year for anxiety/panic attacks/insomnia, however, i have to take xanax 4-6 times a day (0.25 mg) to control my anxiety/panic attacks. i was wondering what other medications are available that work just as well as xanax but don't have to be taken so frequently. i also take 45 mg remeron and 30 mg restoril.

Doctor's Answer

by Roger Gould, M.D.

, Jan 02, 2002 12:00AM

YOu have the right one in your question. Klonopin is much longer acting. Be careful when you switch and do it under doctors supervision. Going off xanaz has to be done carefully and slowly.

Member Comments (2)

by angie8, Jan 03, 2002 12:00AM

One thing I would be aware of if you are considering a switch to klonopin is that it is VERY addictive and some recent studies have indicated that long-term use could actually cause depression. Of course, every medication has its pitfalls. Klonopin was a godsend for me when I first started taking it, I just didn't think that the risks were worth it without exploring other options first.

by lukin4answers2, Jan 08, 2002 12:00AM

I have to agree about the Klonopin.  There are so many other medications out there that can control your issue.  You need a patient physician that is willing to work with you with side affects and be patient.  You will find what works for you.  Try to stay away from Klonopin and Xanax. Xanax is great but as you stay on it, your body requires more to keep you "level".  They are also both very addictive.  I am on Klonopin....5mg 3x daily.  I can't even go off my schedule or I start tightening in my chest.  I have been suffering for almost 1 yr now.  I am under control (by Klonopin) but chose to be either on something non-addictive or nothing at all.

Good luck in your search and don't give up.

Also, look for this book, it will help:

I found it on:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook: A Step-by-Step Program for Curing Yourself of Extreme Anxiety, Panic Attacks, and Phobias

In Stock:Ships within 24 hours.

Edmund J. Bourne,Edmund J. Bourne / Hardcover / Fine Communications / March 1996

Our Price: $12.98



Also, try to keep a journal of meds, moods, food - things that have happened.  With what you are going through, you will find your mind will not keep up with you either.  I have a jounal with me at all times...just so I don't "forget", but I also write occasionally in a real one at home at night.  You don't have to be a journalist, but it will help your physician a lot!

Good Luck!  You will get through this!

Kim

by Kennie21, Sep 26, 2007 05:46PM

To: Roger L. Gould M.D

I have been taking xanax for anxiety/insomnia. I have noticed that i do sleep more and my anxiety levels have calmed down, but my concentration has decreased i tend to be tired for most of my day. I was wondering if tireness and decrease in concentration are sideaffects that i should worry about of if its just my body getting used to xanax.

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