Posted by CCF Neurology MD on July 31, 1997 at 11:45:24:

In Reply to: clonazepam and MS posted by Holly on July 11, 1997 at 17:02:33:

: Hello,
I am new to this forum, but from what I have read it looks very helpful.
My question relates t a diagnosis of "possible MS" in Feb 1997. Can you tell me how clonazepam
works to cut down on the zapping/buzzing that I've been having in legs and hands? It also
has helped to decrease the leg cramps/spasms or spasticity I've experienced.
I just don't understand how the drug works to do this.Any help is greatly appreciated. Holly
=Dear Holly, Clonazepam or Klonipin was developed initially to be used in the control of epilepsy or seizures. This benzodiazipine is believed to dampen or suppress the abnormal
electrical activity of the cerebral cortical neurons of the brain which we recognize as seizures clinically (e.g. the shaking of the arms and legs)and thus control such seizures.
MS is a disorder which is a result of the lose of myelin (demyelination) covering the axons which are used to send signals between neurons in the brain and spinal cord. This demyelination
results in the brain and spinal cord receiving abnormal or incorrect signals resulting in some of the symptons you described. The Klonipin acts in much the same way on the axons as it
did on the aforementiond neurons. Thus the incorrect signals are diminished and your symptoms (tingling plus spasms) are improved. "This information is provided for general medical
education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treeatment options of your specific medical condition."