The medications listed on this website are provided for informational purposes only. Their inclusion does not guarantee that they will be prescribed to any individual, as treatment decisions are ultimately at the discretion of healthcare providers. This list is not exhaustive, and healthcare providers may prescribe other medications, including non-stimulant options, based on the patient's unique health circumstances and needs.
Knowing the differences between prescription drugs is vital from the patient’s perspective. New and improved medicines for anxiety and panic disorder are regularly introduced to the market. Still, it is also important to know the specifics of the drugs that have been prescribed widely for years.
The benzodiazepine class, also known as benzos, includes the prescription drugs Klonopin and Xanax, which are used to treat anxiety. Even though these pills may share many chemical characteristics, your doctor will choose the medication that will cure your condition the most effectively.
Do you want to discover the comparison of similarities and differences between Klonopin VS Xanax? Continue reading!
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What is Klonopin?
The drug Klonopin is a member of the benzodiazepine drug class. Klonopin uses include treatment for anxiety, panic attacks, and seizures. The drug is occasionally used in conjunction with other medicines to treat the mania symptoms that bipolar disorder patients experience. The FDA initially authorized clonazepam, the Klonopin generic, in 1998.
What is Xanax?
Alprazolam, usually referred to as Xanax, is a benzodiazepine medication. People with anxiety disorders like generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) or panic disorder are frequently prescribed Xanax. Additionally, it is occasionally used as a short-term treatment for extreme sleeplessness, alcohol withdrawal, and ongoing seizures.
Since Xanax is a short-acting benzodiazepine, it doesn’t have the same duration of action as other benzodiazepine drugs. This can be useful if the short-term impact of benzos is needed.
Xanax Vs. Klonopin for Anxiety: How They Work?
These benzos act on the brain and central nervous system (CNS). Pharmacologically, they are called GABAergic agents, minor tranquilizers, or sedative-hypnotics. They enhance a very important inhibitory neurotransmitter called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) at GABA A receptor. As a result, the drugs have sedative, hypnotic, anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant properties.
Differences between Klonopin and Xanax
| Xanax | Klonopin | |
Strength (The doctor may start from the lowest dose and then increase it if needed) | Xanax dosages are 0.25mg, 0.5mg, 1mg, or 2mg Xanax XR (extended-release) is available in 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg, 3mg dosages (Both are available in tablet form) | Available in tablets (0.5mg, 1mg, and 2mg) Dissolving tablets (generic form) are available in 0.125mg, 0.5mg, 0.25mg, 1mg, and 2mg (Dissolving tablets are available in only generic form) |
| Half-life | 11.2 hours for immediate release; 10.7 to 15.8 hours for extended-release | Klonopin half-life is 18-50 hours |
| Expected side effects | Slurred speech, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, sweating, dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, headache, memory issues, attention issues, sleep issues, swelling in extremities, muscle weakness, and a lack of balance and coordination. | Dizziness, fatigue, cognitive problems, muscle weakness, loss of balance, slurred speech, runny or stuffy nose, loss of appetite, nausea, headache, sleep issues, skin rash, or weight changes |
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Benefits Vs Drawbacks
| Benefits | Xanax
Klonopin
|
| Drawbacks | Xanax
Klonopin
|
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Klonopin VS. Xanax: Which one is more addictive?
Compared to Xanax, Klonopin is reported to be more addictive. This is because Klonopin results in a stronger euphoric experience. The desire to experience this emotion repeatedly increases as more of your brain is exposed to it, and a higher dosage is required.
Are Xanax and Klonopin the same thing?
Both drugs have a similar mode of action. However, Klonopin has a longer half-life in the body than Xanax. Additionally, both adults and children who encounter particular seizures can take Klonopin. Seizures are not treated with Xanax.
Can I use Xanax or Klonopin when pregnant?
Generally, consuming Xanax or Klonopin while pregnant is not advised. These medications have the potential to cause birth abnormalities. In addition, many medical practitioners advise pregnant women to stay away from benzodiazepines. For available treatments, while pregnant, consult your doctor.
What happens when you stop taking Klonopin and Xanax?
Life-threatening withdrawal symptoms might occur if you stop taking these medications suddenly. Without the proper tapering, preventing the medicine abruptly can cause seizures, severe confusion and disorientation, and anxiety.
In Conclusion
Both Klonopin and Xanax effectively treat signs of anxiety and panic attacks. However, based on your symptoms and other conditions, a medical practitioner can only determine which medication is superior to Xanax vs. Klonopin. Consult a doctor to determine the best course of treatment for you.
Sources
- Combination Treatment With Benzodiazepines and SSRIs for Comorbid Anxiety and Depression: A Review. (2008)
Source link - Combination Treatment With Benzodiazepines and SSRIs for Comorbid Anxiety and Depression: A Review. (2008)
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