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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Could Long Term Use Of Klonopin Cause Lowering Of Memory And Cognitive Abilities?

I have been on generic Klonipin for many years for anxiety and panic attacks. I take 0.5 mg a day dividing the dose in half. My memory and cognitive abilities seem to be lessening a little as well as the fact that I am experiencing generalized aches and joint pains and I am concerned that the Klonipin is reason.
Wed, 30 Nov 2022
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Anesthesiologist,  's  Response
Hello,

Your suspicion is right that long term use of Klonopin causes memory impairment in about 5-10% of patients. It can also cause abnormal coordination and confusion in about 5-10% of patients. But long term use of Klonopin is not associated with generalized body aches. They may be due to rheumatoid arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatica, osteoarthritis, and reactive arthritis.

Pain medications like Ibuprofen and Naproxen can be taken twice daily for 14 days. If you have any heart problems or peptic ulcer, avoid the above medication and take opioids like Hydrocodone, Oxycodone and Tramadol.

To prevent gastric irritation, tab. Pantop 40 mg to be taken once daily before food. Daily exercise at least 30 mins a day for 5 days a week. If your generalized aches do not subside or increase in intensity, you need to consult a physician for thorough clinical examination.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Pallavi M., Anesthesiologist
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Could Long Term Use Of Klonopin Cause Lowering Of Memory And Cognitive Abilities?

Hello, Your suspicion is right that long term use of Klonopin causes memory impairment in about 5-10% of patients. It can also cause abnormal coordination and confusion in about 5-10% of patients. But long term use of Klonopin is not associated with generalized body aches. They may be due to rheumatoid arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatica, osteoarthritis, and reactive arthritis. Pain medications like Ibuprofen and Naproxen can be taken twice daily for 14 days. If you have any heart problems or peptic ulcer, avoid the above medication and take opioids like Hydrocodone, Oxycodone and Tramadol. To prevent gastric irritation, tab. Pantop 40 mg to be taken once daily before food. Daily exercise at least 30 mins a day for 5 days a week. If your generalized aches do not subside or increase in intensity, you need to consult a physician for thorough clinical examination. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Pallavi M., Anesthesiologist