What kind of doctor can prescribe Klonopin?

What is Klonopin, and what kind of doctor prescribes it?

Klonopin is a brand name for the drug clonazepam. Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine, similar to drugs such as Xanax, Valium, and Ativan. This prescription drug works on the central nervous system to provide relief for conditions such as panic disorder and panic attacks. Klonopin is often prescribed by psychiatrists. It can also be prescribed for the treatment of seizure disorders.

Is Klonopin preferred by doctors over Xanax?

Actually, clonazepam and Xanax, or alprazolam, are very similar. Both are benzodiazepines, and both are used to treat anxiety and panic disorder. Both drugs also have anti-epileptic properties. When it comes to side effects, they are also similar. One significant difference is that clonazepam is longer lasting than Xanax. This may result in it being less likely to be habit-forming. While doctors generally prescribe both benzodiazepine medications, psychiatrists generally seem to prefer Klonopin over alprazolam.

Is Klonopin abuse a problem? Is there such a thing as Klonopin addiction?

Klonopin does have a bit of a reputation on the streets and is known by the slang term, K-Pin. While not abused nearly as frequently as alprazolam, Klonopin abuse is certainly an issue. One place where benzodiazepine drugs are found on the streets is in the possession of cocaine and methamphetamine dealers. These stimulant drug dealers either sell or give away benzodiazepines for the purpose of giving coke and meth users a way to come down. Stimulant drugs often leave the user feeling wired, anxious, paranoid, and unable to sleep. A benzodiazepine such as clonazepam can help them to relax and get some sleep.

Is Klonopin overdose a problem? Is it possible to overdose on Klonopin?

In general, the benzodiazepine class of drugs is relatively safe with respect to overdoses. Unlike older sleeping pills and opioid pain pills, benzodiazepines tend not to cause respiratory depression leading to an overdose death. These drugs are often found in the systems of overdose victims. Xanax and Klonopin are often found as secondary drugs of abuse, meaning they are present, but not the primary cause of death. This is concerning that these drugs are being used recklessly on the streets in this manner.

Are there withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting Klonopin?

When a user of clonazepam stops the drug, there are withdrawal symptoms that can occur that include insomnia and panic attacks. In fact, Klonopin withdrawal can be dangerous due to the risk of seizures. If you are physically dependent on Klonopin, you should detox off of the drug under the care of a doctor.

Can Klonopin be used to treat withdrawal symptoms?

When a patient is detoxing off of other drugs, benzodiazepines can be used as part of the detox process. This is usually done at an inpatient facility under 24-hour observation. Drugs such as alcohol, opiates, cocaine, methamphetamine, and others have withdrawal syndromes that can be made more tolerable with support medications. Klonopin is one such medication that may be used.

What are the side effects that can occur from clonazepam abuse?

Like other benzodiazepines, such as Ativan or Valium, clonazepam can affect the central nervous system, causing side effects involving memory, coordination, and balance. It can cause significant drowsiness and dizziness. When combined with other drugs, there is an increased risk of respiratory depression.

Is the long-term use of clonazepam safe?

In some cases, doctors maintain patients on long-term therapy with clonazepam. With frequent monitoring, it is possible that this anti-anxiety drug can be used long-term without serious consequences. However, in patients who have a history of drug abuse, particularly involving benzos, it may not be a good idea to continue clonazepam long-term.