Re: clonazepam and MS

Posted By CCF Neurology MD on July 31, 1997 at 11:12:27:

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, Klonipin (klonopin) (Clonazepam) is a benzodiazapine which was initially used in the control of seizures. In seizures, there is an abnormal electrical activity of the cerebral cortical neurons of the brain which
results in the seizure activity that we see clinically (e.g. the shaking of limbs). Klonipin (klonopin), suppresses or dampens such activity and therefore results in the control of such seizures. In MS, this disorder causes demylination of axons in
the brain and spinal cord which results in abnormal or the wrong electrical impulses being transmitted by these axons which you experience as the tingling sensation or muscle spasms. The klonipin (klonopin) works on the axons in much tne same way
it worked on the neurons of the cerebral cortex resulting in the damping or suppresion of these electrical impulses resulting in the improvement of your cramping and the lessening of the abnormal sensation. "This information is provided for general
medical education purpose only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options."