klonopin in the long term

[Rob2008]

Thanks for taking my question.    I have a number of medical problems, such as a benign tumor in my head, SVT's, palpitations, and probably 1 or 2 others I forgot to mention.     I also have really bad depersonalization and panic.  Definately doesn't mix well with SVT's.  What a combonation, eh.    Anyways, I've started using a low dose of klonopin only when I leave the house, so I will survive.  Otherwise I will dissociate severely  out in the real world and have a major panic attack every time.        I've decided at this point it's much better to be addicted to something than to never leave the house.    But, how will using klonopin for 2, 5, or 10 years effect me?   WIll I just have to keep titrating the dose upwards to get the same effects?   What will happen to me if I use it long term, is it a safe drug other than the addiction factor?   Does it give anyone's anxiety worse on a permanent basis when they stop taking it?

[lynn57]

I agree with Cucumber.  I have taken Klonopin for about five years.  I used to take Effexor Xr with it and now I take Celexa ( generic form ).  If I do not combine Klonopin w/SSRI I still get panic attacks and can't sleep.  My new Doc wants me off the benzo, too.  I only take 1 mg. per day, don't drink, don't smoke and live healthy.  He put me on Buspar ...no help and neurontin at night.  I think just the Celexa and Klonopin will do less damage to my liver than all these other things.  My old Doc used to say "if it ain't broke don't fix it. The Klonopin makes me feel normal.

[Cucumber771]

I read your post and feel for your suffering.  I too have anxiety and panic disorder...I've been taking Klonopin for nearly 20 years and it has helped me a great deal.  I've been taking it on an everyday basis and now my new dr. wants me off it completely.  I am also on Cymbalta which hasn't taken effect yet. Weaning off the Klonopin has been tough and I find that I feel like I can function with it.  So I came to the conclusion that I'd rather be "addicted" to this med than to suffer everyday.  I feel that if someone is on insulin for diabetes and they're addicted to it - they still have to take it.  I feel that way about the Klonopin and since you're taking a low dose, I wouldn't worry about using it for the long term esp if you don't have an addictive personality.  Good luck!

[Roger Gould, M.D.]

It is safe as long as used at low doses, in moderation.  You should use it as a tool to get yourself out, and into therapy, so you can get to the source of your anxiety and tension.  If you do that, you will not become addicted or abuse the medication.  If you rely on the medication alone, you will be in danger of becoming addicted.