Changing from xanax to klonopin. Is it necessary?

[ellie59]

I have been taking .5 mg of xanax and am also taking Wellbutrin, flexoril and estradial for at least ten years.  I feel pretty good really but  I thought I would go to a psychiatrist who is supposed to know more about meds thena  GP.  The psychiatrist met with me for about 15 minutes or less and said she wanted to take me off xanax and put me on klonapin.  I actually feel like I am going to  jump out of my skin.  So I have a question.  I am 59 and in pretty good health, working full time, have a great marriage, etc. Is it necessary for me to change from xanax to klonopin?  My husband said it looked like I was on speed with this medication.  I couldn't sit still.  It was awful.  Can anyone help with this?  I'm not sure if I should try to find a different psychiatrist or if I am having a withdrawal from xanax.  Plus I am going on vacation tomorrow.  Please if anyone has some thoughts on this I would appreciate it.
Thanks
Ellen

[aimee75]

I want you to know that clonazepam is a wonderful antianxiety meds. But please don't goes days without taking it. Withdrawl symptoms will set in. It gives chronic muscle, joint, and nerve pain. You get extreme headaches. Your face gets numb and you feel shocks and vibrations through your body. I'm not telling you this to keep you from using the meds....They're a great med, you just have to stay on it...Goodluck with whatever you decide

[29sillygirl]

Try to calm yourself.  It is understandable that a psychiatrist would suggest a change from Xanax (short and effective anti anxiety med) to Klonopin (a longer lasting anti anxiety med).

I took Xanax for years by itself and with antidepressants.  My HMO dropped my doctor, and the new one did exactly what your psychiatrist did.  I remember being a nervous wreck.  Not sure I had any withdrawal, as started Klonopin immediately, but do remember the angst and tears and feeling very frightened of the change.  Like you Xanax keep me going with no negative side effects, and I came to regard it as my only defense against panic attacks, as well as a sleep aid.  

I am 74 and have taken Klonopin with excellent results for years.  Never gone back to Xanax.  We will all have good and 'bad' days regardless of which med we are taking.
I like knowing my medication keeps me on an even keel emotionally.  

You have a vacation coming up.  If you still have enough Xanax, can you take it until you are back home and feel better able to cope with the change?

Best wishes....

[aimee75]

I took both clonazepam and xanex. Xanex worked for me, but it took time to get in my system. I felt that effects started to go away as so as they started. However the clonazepam started working as soon as I take it. I personally like it better, but you know your body and what will work for you.....I take 2 mg of the clonazepam .10 mg ambien and 100 mg of zoloft