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Is Switching From Xanax To Clonazepam Advisable?

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Posted on Mon, 30 Jan 2017
Question: Hi I'm confused about Clononzapan (sorry for spelling) but have been taking Xanax 1mg for couple of years then 2mg for SEVERAL, YES SEVERAL, I have been experiencing benzodiazepine seizures ,very scary for myself & my family. I am 46 years of age been with father of our 2 beautiful, intelligent children for 20 years. We have a son 12 and a daughter 7 ( going on 17) . My question that we are concerned about is Klonopin or generic as effective treating my severe anxiety, panic attacks and of course the more serious, the seizures that I would like to point out took me by XXXXXXX when I went in for my appointment and was told that my doctor thought I had been on them long enough but that this "alternative" would help. I was stunned for lack of better words, well I do have choice but inappropriate words I'm sure. Please my family and I are very scared
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Answered by Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi (45 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Switching to Clonazepam is a good idea.

Detailed Answer:
Hi thanks for asking from HCM

I can understand your concern. Xanax is Alprazolam and is a rapid acting benzodiazepine drug. Clonazepam or Klonopin is relatively longer acting benzodiazepine drug. The drug is equally or relatively more efficacious in controlling anxiety and panic symptoms. So in my opinion switching from Xanax to Klonopin or Clonazepam is a good idea. This would help in smooth transition from Xanax to Clonazepam. Equivalent dose is same that is 0.5 mg of Xanax is equal to 0.5 mg Clonazepam. There will be no increased risk of seizures.

Thanks and Take care
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Veerisetty Shyamkumar
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Answered by
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Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi

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Practicing since :2007

Answered : 5192 Questions

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Is Switching From Xanax To Clonazepam Advisable?

Brief Answer: Switching to Clonazepam is a good idea. Detailed Answer: Hi thanks for asking from HCM I can understand your concern. Xanax is Alprazolam and is a rapid acting benzodiazepine drug. Clonazepam or Klonopin is relatively longer acting benzodiazepine drug. The drug is equally or relatively more efficacious in controlling anxiety and panic symptoms. So in my opinion switching from Xanax to Klonopin or Clonazepam is a good idea. This would help in smooth transition from Xanax to Clonazepam. Equivalent dose is same that is 0.5 mg of Xanax is equal to 0.5 mg Clonazepam. There will be no increased risk of seizures. Thanks and Take care