DISCLAIMER: iGuard is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. iGuard cannot and does not take into consideration every possible interaction or account for individual responses to medicine. Different individuals may respond to medication in different ways. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for any given patient. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have before making any changes to your treatment. The use of the iGuard site and its content is at your own risk. The iGuard site and the information contained in it is intended for users in the United States and information in other countries may be different.
Global Patient Feedback for Klonopin (Clonazepam) ( Post a comment )
Question/Comment:
I have taken Klonipin since 2002 for Restless Leg Syndrome, and for anxiety and pain. I injured my back in 2002 and i have a damaged nerve at the L4-L5 nerve root. So they put me on Klonipin for pain and RLS and Anxiety and it has worked wonderful for me. I am on Social Security Disability and Medicare will not pay for this drug, and i think that's not right. Here is a drug that works great, so i have to pay for it out of pocket, because Medicare will not cover it. But it is worth paying for because it helps with my RLS and the Anxiety and pain, and it helps me to be able to sleep at night. I would recommend this drug to anyone who needs it. It has helped me for 7 years. Maybe one day Medicare will cover this drug because it does help people with many different illnesses...And i have had no side effects while being on this medication..
44 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-19 14:29:42
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
I have been taken Klonopin for a panic disorder & depression. I can tell when I have not taken when panic situations present themselves. I have a more difficult time getting through them. Once I take one within 10-15 minutes I can feel a feeling of calmness and getting a better grip on situations and life. The side effects did not bother me too much, only for a short while in the beginning. I am one of the fortune ones that it does not play a major part in conflicting with my allergy medication.
Female 56yrs old
Posted: 2009-03-19 18:35:35
Answer/Reply:
I also take Klonipin for anxiety and have experienced wonderful results with no side effects. I do feel the occassional sleepiness, but that might actually because the stress/anxiety effects have subsided, allowing me to relax and actually feel more "normal."
I responded to this post mainly because my mother also takes Klonipin for HER restless leg syndrome and she has also experienced wonderful results. So it would certainly seem that Klonipin does have multiple uses for certain individuals.
35 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-24 13:01:39
Answer/Reply:
My wife takes the generic clonazepam 2 mg that costs $11.13 for 100 at Costco.com. Free
S & H. If you need 1mg break it in half it's cheeper that way.
75 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-20 13:19:22
Answer/Reply:
I too take Klonopin along with Effexor and being diagnosed with Major Depression for several years, this works very well for me. I cannot understand why Medicare won't cover this for you. I have traditional Medicaid and it covers my Effexor XR and my Klonopin. Have you tried to call Medicare to see for sure if they don't cover it?
I do know it can be expensive, BUT, for a month's supply of 90 pills at Costco, we only paid 14 dollars! Walmart was expensive at almost 60 some dollars. And you don't have to be a member at Costco to use their pharmacy.
Keep taking the Klonopin, it is a wonderful medication for a lot of illness the we suffer from, I pray that you will find a way to make sure you can stay on it to keep giving you constant relief. If you go off of the Klonopin, the withdrawal is horrible and once when I hadn't had any left and I was on my way to my pharmacy to pick up my month's supply and thank G-d I had just parked because I had a seizure. That was scary.
My prayers are with you to feel better soon!
39 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-21 00:08:33
Answer/Reply:
I have been taking drugs for panic attacks, extreme anxiety, social anxiety disorder and who knows what else. Klonopin really helps me, as long as I don't run out of them. Once I lost my bottle and the doctor wouldn't call any in, because they are controlled, and I ended up in the ER with my blood pressure skyrocketing with a racing heart and huge panic attack! Also, I am on a medigap insurance which will pay for my zoloft, but not the clonazepam. I don't get it!
My insurance pays for pills like oxycotin, which is almost like Herion! I have never experienced a seizure in withdrawal, but I think I have come close, because my muscles got so many spasms in them, it really scared me. I just really have to be careful I don't ever run out. Otherwise I wouldn't be able to function normally at all. I have tried to go off of them, but the symtoms all come back, even worse. Be very careful with this drug!!!
55 year old Female
Posted: 2009-05-09 04:09:52
Answer/Reply:
I also take Klonopin for anxiety and PTSD. I feel that maybe you should call Medicare and find out for sure if they don't cover it. I am on Medicaid (traditional) and Medicaid covers it. That's why it makes me question why Medicare wouldn't cover it.
It is great medicine and I have been using it for around 6 years, 1 mg, 3 times per day. It really helps with my anxiety and works along with my anti-depressant for maximum results. I take Effexor.
If Medicare does not cover it, I know it's expensive, but at Costco, for 90 pills it is only $14 and some change. You don't have to be a member of Costco to use their pharmacy, which is great. Fourteen some dollars is not too much so that you can be relieved of the symptoms you are feeling. I certainly hope you can find some way to get this without having to go through red tape.
Very Sincerely, Female, Age 38
39 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-21 01:04:31
Question/Comment:
You may also go to your County Mental Health Center they can help with referals and with med's. They may make you see a counslor that day but they know how important going off this med is and they will get you a script or give you some samples. I know I used to work at one and I was always getting the samples for the client's as a walk-in. Or you may go to any emergency room also for samples and/or referal's they also know how dangerous it is for someone who has been on this drug to suddenly go off of it. Good Luck!!
63 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-18 23:55:47
Question/Comment:
I have been using Klonopin for something other than seizures like most of you. I have a nerve disease called Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), where the nerves over fire and cause excrutiating pain 24/7. Part of the pain is a 'burning' pain. I have been taking Klonopin for this burning pain for over 15 years and it has greatly helped me. The only problems I have ran into is I had to reduce my dosage in the last year by 75 % because my insurance no longer pays for it and I can not afford it living on Social Security Disability. I have tried the generic Clonzepam and it did not work at all for this burning pain! By reducing the dose, I get some relief from the 'burning' pain, but no where what I was getting at the higher dose. Wish there was a way I could get back to the higher dose and have less 'burning' pain! I am a 53 year old female with full body RSD for 20 years.
54 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-17 20:51:43
Question/Comment:
I had been on Xanax for many years to treat Anxiety and Panic Disorder. 3 years ago I suffered my 1st seizure while I was at work. No warning, no prior history and no family history. I was hospitalized and they ran a battery of tests. Everything checked out normal. The only reason they could come up with is my having a low seizure threshold, combined with a combination of medications I was on and stress all lowered my seizure threshold more. The medications I was on were Zoloft (an SSRI), Xanax, and Tramadol (for pain). Then a year later I had my 2nd seizure also while I was at work, I should mention that it was only my 2nd day on a new job so I was stressed. I had been out of work for about 2 years and was pressured into employment by my fiance for financial reasons), I was also on a new depression/anxiety medication, Effexor and Xanax. Once again I was hospitalized, more tests were run and everything checked out fine. So once again they linked the seizure to stress and the new med which was a SNRI. So I have now been told to avoid all SSRI meds, Tramadol, Baclofen, etc, as well as any type of hormononal birth control (apparently hormonal fluxuations can set off a seizure), and also to avoid stress as best I can (as stress can also trigger a seizure). At my Neurologist f/u visit my Dr. told me that a better option for controlling my anxiety/panic disorder would be Klonopin since this medication is also used as an anti-epyleptic medication. So I have been on Klonipin for about 1 1/2 years. It appears to help with my anxiety and panic and is also longer acting than xanax, therefore it can be taken less often. I did have 1 more seizure back in October 2008 (this time at home witnessed by my 7 yr old). I did not go to the hospital but did call my neurologist. I had run out of my Klonopin which I take on a daily basis and as many of you know, this medication is not to be stopped abruptly as it can set off a seizure especially in people with a seizure history). Prior to the last seizure I had gone 2 days without my Klonopin. I felt horrible. I suffered for 2 days with a migraine type headache and did not feel like myslf at all and then I had the seizure. My psychiatrist told me to make sure that I schedule all appointments before my supply runs out and if God forbid I did run out before my appt. to call and they would phone in a few pills to hold me over til my appt to avoid another seizure. I just thought I would share my story in case anyone out there has had a similar experience.
37 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-11 12:27:17
Question/Comment:
I have suffered with Restless Leg Syndrome since I was a teen-ager. I spent many sleepless nights. There were many nights when the only way I could get to sleep was by sitting on my legs in the recliner......where they were unable to twitch.
My doctor finally prescribed Klonopin, and for me it has been a miracle drug. I take one or two before going to bed and have no trouble getting to sleep and sleeping through the night.
I have not experienced any ill effects, only good. I don't know about the addictive side affects as it works so well for me that I've not tried discontinuing.
68 year old female
69 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-09 13:33:48
Answer/Reply:
I have taken Klonopin generic every night for 5+ yrs due to my RLS and it works great, had to fight new doctor for it; why try something new when the old works fine and with my health insurance it comes to $1.34 generic...for no dancing legs and a good night sleep....New drugs may have side efffects too! I like the Klonopin........
45 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-17 10:36:18
Question/Comment:
I take this drug for a sleep aid and it works fine for me
42 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-02 21:09:36
Answer/Reply:
After my wife died back in 2001 I had trouble sleepping. My doctor suggested Clonapin and it worked great! I only took it for about two years.
63 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-17 15:41:40
Answer/Reply:
I would like to share my experience on klonopin and effexor. I have been taking both for the past 3 years. The klonopin has been a god send to me. The effexor has been a big help. The poor lady with the hives. . I know I had a rash reaction at first but it only lasted at the most 6 weeks. Then it went away on its own. The anitdepressents in general take a few weeks to build up a theraputic level in your system. How long is a few weeks depends on the individual and their circumstance. If I was in your situation I would go back to the doctor and question the antihistamines and the effexor combo. See if there is a topical cream that you can apply to the hives. I would not stop taking the efffexor cold turkey. The brochures I have received with mine state not to stop cold turkey.
57 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-28 16:10:15
Answer/Reply:
I have been taking this for years 10+ and it really helps me get a good nights rest with no side effects. I sometimes have mild anxiety also and when I do which is seldom, I take 1/2 of a .5mg tablet during the day. At night I take 1 mg. Hope this helps somebody. I have even stopped taking it on occasion with no side effect whatsoever.
52 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-29 16:06:00
Answer/Reply:
I have been taking Klonipin and Nortriptyline for rest legs I've been on them for 15 years and theres no way I would stop, they also help my depression. The DR. asked me if I wanted to try one of the new ones out there and I said "why stop a good thing" Its cheap and it works. Thank You
58 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-29 19:57:53
Question/Comment:
I HAVE TRIED ALMOST EVERY OTHER SEIZER MEDICATION AND I REALLY LIKE KLONOPIN I HAVE BEEN TAKING THEM FOR ABOUT 9yrs NOW AND I FOUND THAT THEY ARE THE ONLY THING THAT WORKS FOR ME . BUT NOW MY DOCTOR MOVED AND I CANT FIND A DOCTOR THAT WILL GIVE THEM TO ME AND I THINK THATS JUST WRONG!!!!
40 year old Female
Posted: 2009-02-20 04:36:30
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
why won't they give them to you? i am still taking them but i take them for TMJ, but if i miss a night i can't sleep and that concerns me.
Posted: 2009-03-06 10:53:18
Answer/Reply:
I am so sorry, I finally found a Doctor that gave me Klonopin, I have been seizer FREE for about 10-12 years, I am 54 year old male
55 year old Male
Posted: 2009-03-06 16:50:04
Answer/Reply:
I started taking the "pam" drugs when I was 16 years old, being 50 now. I decided to stop (without consulting my MD - DO NOT DO THIS), and had a siezure (grand mal) within 24 hours. Since then, I have taken my Klonopin as prescribed. (At the time I was on Xanax and Klonopin, after being "taken down" from higher doses.) Unfortunately, due to the time I was born and the "pams" were prescribed, I am not alone in this quandry; however, after consulting 3 HIGHLY RESPECTED MD's (incl. the head of Addiction Medicine in my State), I found I was not alone, and at my age - to try and detox off the drugs would take SO long, only to end up with the problems I had when I was prescribed the drug(s) in the first place; therefore, you MUST tell your MD you were on this med., that it works, and you are not an ADDICT (e.g. you don't take more than prescribed), but DEPENDENT on them for your sanity and comfort so you don't have to worry about a siezure while driving, working, etc. AND POSSIBLY dying - or at the very least killing precious brain cells when having one. Try a Psychiatrist - he/she will understand. (I tried Depacote and it didn't work AT ALL; in addition, I was allergic to it.) Best wishes for safe and comfortable life!
51 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-23 23:16:34
Answer/Reply:
DO YOU HAVE A FAMILY DR.? IF SO, ASK TO BE REFERRED TO A COUNSELOR. YOU CAN'T JUST WALK AWAY FROM THIS MEDICATION. IF YOU ARE GOING TO GO OFF OF IT YOU NEED A DR. TO HELP YOU. IF YOUR DR. MOVED AWAY HE SHOULD HAVE REFERRED YOU TO ANOTHER DR. WHO NO DOUBT WOULD TAKE HIS PLACE. ALSO, FIND OUT IF YOUR INSURANCE HAS ANY THING TO DO WITH THIS? THERE IS A GENERIC THAT IS JUST AS GOOD. I'VE BEEN ON IT FOR ABOUT 7 YRS.
77 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-18 16:14:47
Answer/Reply:
I have taken klonopin for many years --- I have not taken it for seizures -- only for anxity----- has any one else taken ithis medicne for this reason -----any info would be appreciated --- I am a femaile -- age 67--- 03/27-09
68 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-27 14:02:26
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Klonopin (clonazepam) is FDA indicated for the treatment of seizure disorders and panic disorders which consists of panic attacks of sudden episodes of intense fear that develop for no apparent reason and that trigger severe physical reactions. It is not FDA indicated for anxiety but it is commonly used for this condition. In fact, approximately 65% of iGuard member who are taking clonazepam are using it for anxiety disorder.
Posted: 2009-04-02 23:16:11
Answer/Reply:
Yes, I too take klonopin for anxiety and panic attacks, and for no other reasons. I have been on the same low dose ( .5 mg. 3xday ) for many years now. It keeps me sane and calm, and I would never want to come off of it. I've done that twice before with terrible side effects, and the panic attacks would come right back. I have tried xanax and ativan, but they didn't work at all and made me feel weird. I think Klonopin is the best medication because it has no side effects. I didn't even know it was prescribed for RLS! It truly is a wonderful drug for many conditions, and the generic at my Kroger's pharmacy is pretty cheap.
Hope this helps!
44 year old Female
Posted: 2009-04-16 09:26:51
Question/Comment:
I have been taking 0.05 mg as needed for almost a year now. I was only taking it every few days, or sometimes even every few weeks for anxiety attacks in which my esophagus closes up. I have had my esophagus stretched 3 times in the last year and biopsied. There is no dreaded disease or anything else wrong with it.I also have a feeling of my blood being hot and hear roaring in my head. The Dr. seems to think the probs with my esophagus are because of stress having an effect on my muscle function. The Klonopin helps me greatly when I have an attack. The Dr. has upped it to me taking two a day every day now for a few weeks due to stress. I haven't noticed any side effects of this drug, but DO NOT take it with Benadryl or any other meds containing diphenhydramine. It will knock you on your behind.
38 year old Female
Posted: 2009-01-25 22:19:13
Answer/Reply:
Hi There,
I'm 33 and have been on Klonopin for 15 years now and for the last 9 I've only taken it on an as needed basis. I too have the tightening of the esophagus when I get stressed!! I've never been told that it was a muscle problem. We just get stressed to a greater degree. Another thing that is natural that helps is Bach's natural remedy. Anyhow, just wanted to let you know...you're normal and not alone!
34 year old Female
Posted: 2009-02-28 15:21:12
Question/Comment:
I am taking klonipin for panic disorder and social phobia. It works. It is addictive and coming off it is not pleasant. At age 57 I have decided the benefits contribute to my quality of life and accept the fact it is a benzo therefore dangerous. I can't imagine why I would ever need to stop taking it. I am on a low dose 2mg tops per day. It really helps , so if I am "addicted" I'll just have to live with that fact unless, until, my liver enzymes indicate a problem. I also have burning mouth syndrome that is regarded a neuropathic condition without any cure or pain relief that really works. Studies are being done. My treatment is Zoloft, Gabapentin , Clozapam, and Omega 369, BComplex, especially B12 and B6. and trying not to smoke. Cause of this condition may be related post menopause hormone change, Vitamin deficiency, Teeth grinding,
and Tardive Dyskenesia a permanent condition of involuntary mouth movement that was a "gift" I discovered by surprise (never informed of side effects just medicated) after treatment with
antipsychotics specifcally Risperdal and Zyprexa. No more that stuff for me! I'll deal with condition or psychosis (Schizo Affect Disorder) as it comes. So tired of drugs that numb me and help very little. We'll see what happens with the use of Gabapentin as it relates to my current and constant mouth pain. If the drug doesn't have much beneficial effect I'll speak to my doc about Lyrica. I am praying side effects when and if they come are tolerable. I do not want to become a zombie with memory loss, flat affect or " barely there living mannequin" mood.
58 year old Female
Posted: 2009-01-23 13:40:01
Answer/Reply:
Look into the connections between Gabapentin and Lyrica before ypu decide.
58 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-09 14:36:54
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
I have been taking Gabapentin for almost 9 yrs. along with Darvon for Neuro pain. I find that one without the other has no effect at all, I might as well take nothing. The reason is that the Gabapentin boost the effect of the pain killer Darvon. I also take Clonazepam for restless leg syndrom, but not every night, only when I've tried to go to sleep and had the problem of waking up due to restless legs. I am retired so I don't have to keep a morning schedule. I feel very bad for those of you who have to work and deal with these sort of problems. For the lady with the neuro mouth pain you might mention the addition of a pain reliever before moving on to a new drug.
Hope this helps.
Posted: 2009-03-09 17:03:22
Answer/Reply:
Look into the connections between Gabapentin and Lyrica before you decide.
58 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-09 14:37:40
Question/Comment:
I am a 61 yr old femal who has also taken Klonopin for over 10 yrs and when I tried to wean myself off of it slowly I had horrible nightmares, sweats, shaking inside and outside my body, very tired and racing heart (100-135 was my resting heart rate!!). Dr. said I went off it too quickly and I did agree however I will never go back on that again coz it also works on your Central Nervous System and they don't tell you that when you go on it..plus it is habit forming as well. I was taking 1mg three times a day when I went off it. I couldn't think clearly for years while taking it and I kept telling my Drs. that my mind was continually racing (another bad side effect) but now that I'm off it I think clearly and my mind isn't racing anymore. Beware of taking this drug!!!
62 year old Female
Posted: 2009-01-19 19:05:25
Answer/Reply:
I take a pretty high dosage and have been on it for about 10 years.
It's quite the miracle drug for panic, phobias and anxiety.
I'm 61 also, and have run out a couple of times.
I get really dizzy and hear zappy sounds in my head and get
very weak, so for sure, these are some severe side effects from
withdrawal.
These symptoms would never stop me from taking a drug that delivers
on it's promises. I used to take Valium 'as needed' which work just as well,
and which I prefer, but doctors seem to think that they are like heroin for
some reason and they just won't give a prescription anymore.
It's really too bad because I'd prefer to take a drug 'as needed' rather than to
be addicted to the klonopin.
That's the medical profession for ya. Go figure!
62 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-05 18:13:55
Answer/Reply:
The reason Klonopin is given out more frequently, so I am told (and per research), is because as "they" (those who 'invented' the pams) started out - they started with Valium and Librium. These, supposedly, were and are more "addictive". "They" continued to do R&D on the "pam" family, until FINALLY.....the last of which they tried with the best (according to "them") was Klonopin. I was a trial patient for the Klonopin (Clonepezam) trials, and I find (have taken nearly all of them at one time or another), the effects are not as "bad" as the rest, i.e. addicitve, etc. Klonopin doesn't "hit" me as rapidly - therefore, I get no "high", i.e. dizzy, etc. which one who is or has an addictive personality would like. Also, it is more "time released"; therefore, it doesn't have to be taken as often (or shouldn't have to be)...that is why "they" made Klonopin, "they" decided it was the best, and called it "quits" for the "pam" family. Unless, for a short period one may need something with more effects others have - then those are usually prescribed. But, if one needs them long-term, for ex: siezures, then Klonopin is usually the one given. (So I have been told, and were the results from the clinical trial I was on at the UCLA Med. Ctr.)
51 year old Female
Posted: 2009-03-23 23:40:11
Question/Comment:
I have been taking clonazepam to treat my anxiety disorder for the past 19 years. I started at a dose of 0.5mg at bedtime, now I am at 1mg during the day time and 2mg at bedtime. Two years ago the bedtime dose was upped from 1mg to 1.5mg, then in the last year to the 2mg. It has helped tremendously but there are still times were the anxiety is out of control. I also take Zoloft and Lexapro for depression and anxiety.
46 year old Female
Posted: 2009-01-15 19:13:06
Answer/Reply:
sometimes you just have to gain control of your brain and feelings and decide you will not let this (whatever it is get ahold of you) control you, i growed up with a mother who had nervous breakdowns, and i remember deciding at an early age that i would not let that happen to me!! i have been through losing my mom and the love of my life, (my soul mate). my grandchildren have been taken by a no good child molester father! we are in a battle right now,but everything has to be done right which takes time, so i have to keep my sanity for them and MYSELF!!! if i allow myself failure, then not only i lose, but so do they!!!!!! if i can stand this, you can stand whatever. also, i have been told by social securirty that i am not terminal YET, so i cant draw any $ from my husband, i only survive because of my son taking care of me, kids arent his,they my daughters who is a server,people dont tip their waitresses enough, she very poor and fighting for her kids i have been taking care of for 5 yrs, father refuse to pay support, so , if you think you problems are the worse, think again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! there is more, but i run out of space!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
50 year old Female
Posted: 2009-01-16 19:57:42
Answer/Reply:
I have PTSD and I take 2mg of klonapin/clonazampam 3x a day. Tell your daughter to go down and sign up for welfare and they will start docking the fathers pay and get her the child support that she needs. They will also pay for her to go back to school and get the degree that she wants and NEEDS for free. You go to FAFSA.com and sign up for federal aid and they will pay all your bills and all tuition on a "need" basis and that should be all that she needs to get her life together, stop being a waitress and get a career going, Hell maybe she could own the place that she works at by the time she's done but it's hard to do and you have to have faith IN YOURSELF to do this sort of thing.
29 year old Female
Posted: 2009-01-22 11:45:52
Answer/Reply:
i am so sorry for all you have been thru- seems to be taking a toll on you, but atleast you are aware of what is going on. wish i could take your place for one day to give you a break :) you are a great person helping your daughter and your grandkids. I am 36 and have experienced some of the same problems as you. you are on the right path, gain control of your feelings and dont let the situation take control of you. best of luck to you and your family
37 year old Female
Posted: 2009-01-22 20:39:52
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
I am praying for you.
Posted: 2009-02-24 10:44:23
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Have you ever considered discontinuing one of the anti-depressants? I used to take Effexor and Wellbutrin and finally decided I'd had enough. I weaned myself off the Wellbutrin, with my Dr's. knowledge, and feel so much better. I've also stopped my hormone replacement therapy. But I take Black Kohosh instead. I just don't like being on all that medication; I like the natural approach much better. It's worked for me. Just a thought. Best wishes to you.
P.S. Did you know that one of the side effects of anti-depressants is depression! Check the internet and research it.
Posted: 2009-01-17 20:57:19
Answer/Reply:
This drug is one that your body adjusts to quickly, so you have to keep upping the dose! I agree with the lady who said "beware of taking this drug!!" It causes extreme drowziness, dizziness, blurred vision, and mood changes! My daughter is on it, and it was supposed to be temporary for 2 weeks to get her thru, and now she's on the highest dose and it has been 6 MONTHS!!! I will be getting her off of it after the current drug we are lowering is finished! Since she is only 2 it is good, and scary to know what she may go thru while we lower it! At least I can anticipate it being a very difficult time! Thank you all for writing!
23 year old Female
Posted: 2009-02-17 10:34:15
Question/Comment:
I have taken clonazepam for the last four years. Two of those years it was everyday, 0.5mg 2xdaily. The last two of those four years it has been just as needed. When I first decided to get off of clonazepam full time I had to wean myself off of it. I reduced my dose by 0.125mg, would go three days, then reduce it again. I kept doing that till all I had left was 0.125mg. I took that tiny dose every other day for a week then quit. The medicine is very very effective for anxiety and panic. Highly recommended. If your on it for a long time, DONT suddenly stop it, wean yourself off of it.
37 year old Male
Posted: 2009-01-10 18:53:30
Question/Comment:
Male 56 on .25 once a day for anxiety. Just went off Prozac for 10 years. Has anyone ever had semen or ejaculation issues from Klonopin? Or any urinary issues? (male)
58 year old Male
Posted: 2009-01-05 15:20:49
Answer/Reply:
klonopin and some other blood pressure pills have been used to treat premature ejaculation problems. Is this the problem you are having? If you can't "finish" it's the anxiety pills that are doing it. Talk to your doctor about it if it is bothering you, obviously it is. Don't try so hard and do lots of foreplay. I take 2mgs 3x a day imagine the rubix's cube my husband has to play with :)
good luck
29 year old Female
Posted: 2009-01-22 11:50:09
Answer/Reply:
by the way, i'm a female.
29 year old Female
Posted: 2009-01-22 11:51:18
Answer/Reply:
I m 52,on clonazepam for6 yrs now..Having leaks ,not pleased at all,but never new it may hv to do withtaking clonazepam.Gynae removed my womb,but no better relieve.I m like a zombie most of the time.like right now,but if I take luvox n clona now,I will be awaken.I guess its my depressive anxiety is the cause.
53 year old Female
Posted: 2009-02-18 21:00:43
Answer/Reply:
I started having reduced semen during ejulations when I went on Klonapin. I take Prozac daily also. The texture and volume has changed. No pain or problems, but I don't like the sudden change in reduced amount. 57 year old.
58 year old Male
Posted: 2009-06-09 17:47:13
Question/Comment:
I am schizto affective and have ptsd as well as seizures
42 year old Male
Posted: 2008-12-23 22:03:37
Question/Comment:
I have been taking this drug for over a year for my RLS and non essential tremors. I take one a day at night before bedtime. I have had no problems with Clonazepam. I sometimes forget to take it and my RLS reminds me. The non essential tremors are getting worse during the day so might have to go on one pill in the morning. As far as this drug putting me to sleep, it doesn't or I don't notice it. It still takes me about an hour or two after I take the pill to fall asleep so I don't think this is one of my side effects. As a matter of fact I don't have any side effects. So far the good outweighs the bad on this drug.
42 year old Female
Posted: 2008-12-23 09:19:42
Question/Comment:
I have been taking klonopin for over a year now. I started having sever panic attacks that put me in the ER. I thought I was having heart attacks! Thank God after lots of trial and error, they sent me to a psychiatrist who put me on it. I take 2 mg 3 times a day right now and planning on lowering the mg once I can control my attacks. I also have severe anxiety and am bipolar. I took my meds throughout my pregnancy because during my attacks, my heart rate would soar up which cuts off oxygen to the baby. She is perfectly healthy. I also take Seroqel 100 mg at night. I also suffered from RLS, and it helps at night. I have none of the side effects. Which is great. Especially with 3 children! Klonopin has really helped so much.
27 year old Female
Posted: 2008-12-22 23:09:56
Question/Comment:
Clonazapam (Klonopin) is a benzodiazapene. This is a sister drug to Valium. "benzo's" and alcohol are the 2 main "controlled substance" drugs from which you can (many do) die from withdrawal symptoms--cold turkey especially--if combined with some health problems. I take .5 mg. 3Xs daily for severe anxiety and panic disorder. This is the lowest dose effective, but I plan to wean off at a VERY SLOW rate when I am able. Everyone has different strengths and weaknesses, health and psych issues, so hard and fast opinions and judgments on what somebody else should or should not do are invalid and ignorant.
50 year old Female
Posted: 2008-12-19 07:07:08
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Believe me, I've learned to keep my health issues personal to avoid that. Only my closest friends!!!!! Wish you the best.
Posted: 2009-01-17 21:08:08
Question/Comment:
I have been taking a low dosage of Klonopin for 10+ years. I only take one at bedtime, so the drowsiness does not bother me. I was having severe panic attacks and this medication cured those. I've never had to increase the dosage, so I don't worry about that aspect. I would rather take the medication than suffer the panic attacks I was having.
46 year old Female
Posted: 2008-12-18 22:42:35
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
PANIC ATTACKS ARE JUST TERRIBLE !!! I'M 51 & HAVE BEEN TAKING KLONOPIN FOR APPROX. 32 YEARS NOW AND IT'S BEEN A "BLESSING" TO ME !!!!
Posted: 2009-01-02 17:48:39
Question/Comment:
I was gradually increased from a low dose of clonazepam to a high dose (2mg three times a day) while taking lexapro for depression and significant anxiety/panic attacks. This left me so sedated I nearly slept all the time. Have switched doctors and changed from lexapro to cymbalta and am gradually weaning down clonazepam dosage. My current total daily dose of clonazepam is now 4mg per day and weaning down is rough! I experience significant insomnia with each reduction of 1 mg approximately at one month intervals. Do not let yourself get addicted to this medication like I am. I am fighting a tough battle to wean off of it. Once you are on it you CANNOT stop taking it all at once. Seizures/insomnia, etc. can occur.
48 year old Male
Posted: 2008-12-17 09:31:15
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
I take it only as needed, however, my insomnia is getting worse. My Dr. gave me Ambien CR too to help me sleep. Of course, he told me not to take both together.
Posted: 2009-01-17 21:10:31
Question/Comment:
I have been on all of these medications for 8 years, but for, and I have not had any of these symtoms! and I take one at morning and one at bedtime.
51 year old Female
Posted: 2008-12-08 17:18:29
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
I am 52 and have been on 1mg Klonopin for 4 years but I seem to have more trouble remembering names and stuff lately. Anyboy else notice this effect?
Posted: 2008-12-10 09:37:37
Question/Comment:
I've been taking 2 mg of klonopin every day and still do since I was 24 and I am now 43 (Female). When I had been pregnant with my son I quit taking Klonopin cold turkey, suffered through the withdrawal but went my entire pregnancy without it at all and even gave birth naturally. I went back on it only because of my panic disorder. Speaking only for myself - my body gets addicted to it but my mind is not - meaning that yes it is an addictive substance but I have never had a problem to stop taking it if I chose to. I've done it several times over the years and its the Panic Disorder that I end up taking klonopin and NO other reason.
44 year old Female
Posted: 2008-12-04 23:53:32
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Years ago I was on xanax...that was hell to get off! But I did it cold turkey after I had an operation. Now I take 3 mg of klonopin because I have severe anxiety, which keeps me away from people. Without it I become a recluse and until I find out why I'm so utterly scared I have to take it. I also suffer from innsomnia and it helps me to sleep. female 48 yrs.old
Posted: 2008-12-20 04:45:51
Question/Comment:
I have been on clonopin for over 8 years now. I got one from a friend and liked it, so I asked my doctor for some and she just gave it to me, no questions asked. I did eventually find out I did need it, because I was on Ativan, which is way more sedating, it zombified me. When I became pregnant three years ago, I knew I could not be on clonopin, because of the birth defects it can cause to my baby. Cleft lip was a huge threat. So I did try and quit all my meds cold turkey. That was a huge mistake! The withdraws that you go through getting off clonopin is excrutiating! It is just as bad as a heroin addict getting off and going through withdraws. You do feel like you have the flue, every bone in your body aches, you just pound the pain out with your fists, you get major cold sweats, all I could do is rock back and forth in bed and cry to God to help me. My OBGYN said that the withdrawal symptoms were affecting the fetus and could cause miscarriage and was more damaging than being on the clonopin so she put me back on it. I did however ween myself down to 1mg. a day. My baby was just fine throughout the pregnancy and I had a healthy baby boy. I have since tried several attempt to get off the drug. I just cannot. My med doc. said it would be a course of a year to ween myself off. I dont want to be old in a care center begging for clonopin. I am 34. It scares me being so completely dependent on a pill. I do regret ever getting on this medication and warn anyone who is not on it and is considering, to weigh the consequences of withdrawal before you decide to commit to such an addicting drug. Yes, it helps my anxiety hugely, like I said I cannot live without it, but I know if I had never been introduced to it, I could have gone to something less addicting and I feel I would not have such a high anxiety level if I would have never taken it. Now I so dependent on it, I know that alot of it could have been controlled through self control.
35 year old Female
Posted: 2008-11-22 17:02:28
Answer/Reply:
I've been taking 2 mg of klonopin every day and still do since I was 24 and I am now 43. When I had been pregnant with my son I quit taking Klonopin cold turkey, suffered through the withdrawal but went my entire pregnancy without it at all and even gave birth naturally. I went back on it only because of my panic disorder. Speaking only for myself - my body gets addicted to it but my mind is not - meaning that yes it is an addictive substance but I have never had a problem to stop taking it if I chose to. I've done it several times over the years and its the Panic Disorder that I end up taking klonopin and NO other reason.
44 year old Female
Posted: 2008-12-04 23:51:41
Answer/Reply:
Hello,
I'm Leighann. Like your story I also found myself addicted physically to clonazepam (klonopin). Currently I am 36 years old and have taken it since I was around 20 for panic attacks and anxiety. I tried millions of times to stop with absolutely no luck. I was on 6mg daily at my highest and during my pregnancy I was on around 2mg. To sum up my story I really felt that emotionally I just didn't need to be on this med daily or at all for that matter, yet everything I tried to do/use to rid myself of it seemed pointless. Then the day came when my new doctor prescribed me only 1mg/daily and sent me on my way. Here's the kicker, he also started me on 15 mg of Abilify/daily. I realize Abilify is mainly for depression/schizophrenia/bipolar symptoms which made sense because I suffer from mild depression. After one dose of Abilify I literally felt I could go without the clonys. Sure I have gone without clonopin for a day here and there before but day two would always have my body in complete muscle tightness and constant fight or flight mode, that was until that first dose of Abilify. For the next few night on Abilify I withheld on the clonys just to see what would happen. Sure enough I was fine, zero panic and no muscle tenseness. I'm not sure why the Abilify works wonders on getting one's body ready and able to dismiss the clonys but I'm telling you it just worked, literally after just one 15 mg dose of Abilify. One downfall, Abilify is very expensive even with awesome insurance. If this is something that interests you into giving it a shot ask your doc for some samples of the Abilify. Hey it worked for me which is an absolute miracle in itself. Good Luck, Leighann
36 year old Female
Posted: 2009-01-17 02:10:32
iGuard.org Answer/Reply:
Actually, Ativan is much less sedating than Klonopin.............it should not be taken along with alot of other anxiety medications and should never be mixed with alcohol...............I take it on an as needed basis for anxiety attacks and thus far I have been fine with it. I have also been on Ativan in the past, which is considered to be much more addicting, but works just as well in a lower dosage.
Posted: 2009-01-27 13:23:08
Question/Comment:
i am 51. four years ago i was put on klonopin, zoloft and seroquel. the 4th year i was up to 6mg a day. when i look back i now know i was overmedicated. i moved and lost my klonopin. well i couldn't get a refill because it was to soon before my prescription. i was never told about the withdrawals. that was sept. 2008. well the first week i felt a little strange without my meds, the second week i felt like a had the worse case of the flu ever. by the end of the week i was so sick, vomiting, not able to even keep a sip of water down. i ended up going to the emergency hospital, i was almost dead and that is no exaggeration. i was severely dehydrated and already going into shakes and convulsions. imagine my suprise when the doctor said i was having withdrawals. well i decided then that i did not want to be in that situation ever again. i got a prescription from the doctor that cut down the klonopin to 1mg a day and seroquel from 450mgs day to 100mg. i started tapering down since i was told not to go cold turkey..(hellooo) so then i started taking half of the prescribed dose, and then skipping a day. i also kept a journal of dose and how i feld. after 2 months of sheer will power of the mind i am free of the zoloft and the klonopin. i occasionally take 150mg of seroquel at night to help me sleep. i feel alot better being alive, awake and aware, i have been reborn literally. my message is to BE CAREFUL. it is a fact that 30,000 plus die each year from prescription drugs. even after that the doctors are still trying to get me to take more drugs. NO! i have learned that i am the captain of my body and they are the facilitators. never again will i put my life in the hands of the doctors without first researching whatever it is they want to do. my friends and family tell me it is good to have you back, the drugs were making me nuttier then i (supposedly) already was. After some research i learned that the doctors and pharmacetical companies are more interested in making lots of $$$$$ and want us to be "sick". if we are healthy and well then they make nothing. i have since changed my diet and eat healthier foods, stay away from foods that contribute to depression etc. and get more excercise. it feels good to remember and be aware of what i am doing. well that is my experience and i hope it will be helpful to others.
52 year old Female
Posted: 2008-11-20 18:34:21
Question/Comment:
58 yr old female
I started taking valium at age 17 for severe depression. By age 19, got married moved and didn't take it for 2-3 years. I was diagnosed with psoriasis at age 19, not knowing anything about it, and now am disabled with it after taking methotrexate, soriataine, cyclosporine, 1 month treatment of Goeckerman therapy in Baylor Psoriasis Clinic..(1980) . Most recently took Enbrel injections, which wound me up in the hospital for pneumonia/w pluracy. All these drugs have much more adverse acions than benefits for me. Valium kept my nerves under control somewhat; I am now taking clonazepam 2 mg with parexotine (paxil generc) 20mg, and premarin 1.25 mg - all three at bedtime. I have always had a high metabolism, which I personally relate back to age 5 when hospitized 2 months with ensephylitus and paralyzed on one side for several weeks. So I personally feel my nervous system and immune system have always been compromised somewhat from that episode in 1955. I am currently taking chelation treatments since being taken off Enbrel because there was just nothing left from the Dermatologist standpoint. I was blessed by a Dr who has never seen psoriasis as bad as mine and he has absolutely saved my life. I was ready to give up; so much pain & immobility, lack of interest in anyone seeing me except my daughter. I live alone and am enjoying my grandkids 5 & 11. And have found quality of life with chelation, paxil, clonazepam & premarin. I had a hysterectomy at age 35 so I suppose I should worry more about premarin. But I don't worry anymore...........just pray, believe, and live as well as I can.
59 year old Female
Posted: 2008-11-20 05:33:26
Question/Comment:
I've been taking clonazepam apox.2 years now.Before it was persribed to me I had a LOW self esteem I thought everybody was looking at me,Talking about me I was afraid to leave my house.Now I facillitate large groups about HIV,AIDS&Hepatitis a,b & c I'm on a very low dose(0.5 mg.2 times a day.It has worked wonders for me. 49 year old Male
50 year old Male
Posted: 2008-11-19 14:38:00
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