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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Treatment For Anxiety Disorder

I am taking two mg. of Klonopin per day, prescribed by my psychiatrist for anxiety disorder, and have been taking it for ten years. I like the drug and feel fine taking it with no side effects. I am a 55 year old female. I work fulltime as a lawyer, ride my horse, participate in activities, have a good sex life. But I know that I am addicted because I ran out of my meds on a camping trip and that was the longest night of my life. My question: is this drug shortening my life or affecting my brain function such that I should ask to taper off of it? Can I stay on this drug for the rest of my life?
Thu, 5 Mar 2015
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Thanks for putting up your query on health care magic. Ideally benzodiazepines (klonopin) should not be continued for long time and should be tapered off before stopping.In your case either the drug can be gradually tapered off or shift to non benzodiazepine sedative can be made which are easier to taper off and stop.Hope I could help you.
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Suggest Treatment For Anxiety Disorder

Thanks for putting up your query on health care magic. Ideally benzodiazepines (klonopin) should not be continued for long time and should be tapered off before stopping.In your case either the drug can be gradually tapered off or shift to non benzodiazepine sedative can be made which are easier to taper off and stop.Hope I could help you.