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tammy schreef: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – As I had thought, my pdoc and I agreed that we would try Klonopin next. He started me on .25mg, 2x/day (for a total of .5mg). I guess he’s thinking that, since I seem to be sensitive to drugs, this might be a good place to start. His instructions were, if it works, great, if not, in about 4-5 days, we’ll talk about upping the dosage. I’ll keep you all posted. Iris (who is a bit nervous about taking another new med) — Klonopin just calms me down, but I take one at night. Other than that it just makes me a little groggy in the mornings. I usually can feel it kick in when I take it , but it is not a strong reaction. I know, everyone is different, but I’m just telling you how it does me. I’ve never taken it during the day, so don’t know about that. Best wishes.
Never having taken Klonopin but being familiar with a lot of its brothers and sisters I can *assure* you, Iris, that you will by trying Klonopin *not* have whatever adverse reactions compared to what you suffered with Paxil. And that’s a promise. Whatever they might say about benzo’s, they have almost no side effects. Philip
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As I had thought, my pdoc and I agreed that we would try Klonopin next. He started me on .25mg, 2x/day (for a total of .5mg). I guess he’s thinking that, since I seem to be sensitive to drugs, this might be a good place to start. His instructions were, if it works, great, if not, in about 4-5 days, we’ll talk about upping the dosage. I’ll keep you all posted. Iris (who is a bit nervous about taking another new med) —
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As I had thought, my pdoc and I agreed that we would try Klonopin next. He started me on .25mg, 2x/day (for a total of .5mg). I guess he’s thinking that, since I seem to be sensitive to drugs, this might be a good place to start. His instructions were, if it works, great, if not, in about 4-5 days, we’ll talk about upping the dosage. I’ll keep you all posted. Iris (who is a bit nervous about taking another new med) — Klonopin just calms me down, but I take one at night. Other than that it
just makes me a little groggy in the mornings. I usually can feel it kick in when I take it , but it is not a strong reaction. I know, everyone is different, but I’m just telling you how it does me. I’ve never taken it during the day, so don’t know about that. Best wishes. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –
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That’s a pretty low dose, hopefully it will not bother you much if at all. I would guess though that you would need a bit more to really have much of an impact. Good luck, PETER
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As I had thought, my pdoc and I agreed that we would try Klonopin next. He started me on .25mg, 2x/day (for a total of .5mg). Iris (who is a bit nervous about taking another new med)
I think you will find this MUCH different than your Zoloft experience, Iris. Whole different med and one with a very good track record and little if no side effects besides being a bit sleepy til you adjust. Gwen (thinking sleepy sounds mighty god right now!)
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I have not be able to tolerate the SSRI’s or the trycyclic AD’s for panic disorder. Is it possible to just use Klonopin on a as necessary basis or would a scheduled dose be more effective? Would there be any adverse or withdrawl effects, only taking it from time to time? I have tried Ativan and not finding it as effective anymore, where as it use to make me sleep, now causing insomnia and rebound anxiety. Will appreciate any opinions and suggestions. Thanks
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Carrie schreef: I have not be able to tolerate the SSRI’s or the trycyclic AD’s for panic disorder. Is it possible to just use Klonopin on a as necessary basis or would a scheduled dose be more effective? Would there be any adverse or withdrawl effects, only taking it from time to time? I have tried Ativan and not finding it as effective anymore, where as it use to make me sleep, now causing insomnia and rebound anxiety. Will appreciate any opinions and suggestions. Thanks
Klonopin is a very good maintenance med but because of the fact that it takes a while to work it is less suitable for use *as needed*. A quick-acting benzo would be preferable. As Ativan seems not to work gor you at this moment, there is the option of the first benzo of choice: Xanax. Also it’s quite possible to take Klonopin for maintenance and Xanax as needed. And if necessary you can take both as maintenance meds as well. But all this should be discussed with your doctor of course. Philip
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Klonopin is considered a first line medication for panic disorder (as well as Xanax). Less side effects usually than SSRI’s or tricyclics. Probably more effective on average too. Scheduled dose has an advantage in that Klonopin doesn’t work as quickly as Xanax – it’s effects take about 10 minutes or so to really kick in. Xanax is faster to start working. Disadvantage of Xanax is with regular dosing – must dose roughly twice as often as with Klonopin, possibly more. JR – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have not be able to tolerate the SSRI’s or the trycyclic AD’s for panic disorder. Is it possible to just use Klonopin on a as necessary basis or would a scheduled dose be more effective? Would there be any adverse or withdrawl effects, only taking it from time to time? I have tried Ativan and not finding it as effective anymore, where as it use to make me sleep, now causing insomnia and rebound anxiety. Will appreciate any opinions and suggestions. Thanks
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I have not be able to tolerate the SSRI’s or the trycyclic AD’s for panic disorder. Is it possible to just use Klonopin on a as necessary basis or would a scheduled dose be more effective? Would there be any adverse or withdrawl effects, only taking it from time to time? I have tried Ativan and not finding it as effective anymore, where as it use to make me sleep, now causing insomnia and rebound anxiety. Will appreciate any opinions and suggestions. Thanks
Hello Carrie; I took Klonopin, on an as needed basis, for 5 years. Based on my situation, my Doctor and I agreed xanax was not appropriate for me. I used 12 .5 tablets per month. This worked reasonably well. My Doc wanted me on Klonopin daily, but I was sooo frightened of addiction. I then went off the klonopin, for about a year – no withdrawals, problems. When my PA’s came back full force in October, I went on Klonopin 3x per day. I have a better understanding of Benzodiazepines, now. I am not afraid of ‘dependence’. I believe I know how to deal with it. I also take xanax, as needed now. When I took Klonopin prn (as needed) it took about 30-45 minutes to notice a reduction of symptoms. YMMV When I take xanax, it takes about 15-20 minutes to notice a reduction of symptoms. YMMV I am doing better on Klonopin taken daily, than I was on Klonopin prn. This is my experience. You might consider trying it, and seeing what works for you. :-) — Kiesha Life is either a grand adventure or it is nothing at all. Helen Keller
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Some people do use PRN Klonopin. The problem is that it is so long acting that it may help with anxiety on an immediate basis, but make you sedated two days later. Its best to use on a scheduled dose IMHO. As many of you already know, I fell Xanax is the best medication for panic attacks, but it has to be prescribed carefully, whereas Klonopin can be given on a simple twice a day schedule. Dr.S. There are no false alarms http://www.algy.com/pdi – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I have not be able to tolerate the SSRI’s or the trycyclic AD’s for panic disorder. Is it possible to just use Klonopin on a as necessary basis or would a scheduled dose be more effective? Would there be any adverse or withdrawl effects, only taking it from time to time? I have tried Ativan and not finding it as effective anymore, where as it use to make me sleep, now causing insomnia and rebound anxiety. Will appreciate any opinions and suggestions. Thanks
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klonopin works too slowly to take PRN, but it works well if you find the right amount and take it regularly i too cannot tolerate SSRI’s at all but barely notice any side effects of klonopin.
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klonopin works too slowly to take PRN, but it works well if you find the right amount and take it regularly i too cannot tolerate SSRI’s at all but barely notice any side effects of klonopin.
This is another one of those YMMV things. Klonopin is ‘probably’ not the best prn medication, for panic attacks. But, I used it rather successfully for 5 years. I took no more than 12 .5 mg’s per month. My PDoc was against the idea. But I asked if it could hurt to try. She is open minded, and I am glad. It was the best med combo for me, at the time. — Kiesha The marvelous richness of human experience would lose something of rewarding joy, if there were not limitations to overcome. The hilltop hour would not be half so wonderful, if there were no dark valleys to traverse. Helen Keller
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I am weaning off Celexa. I think it is wonderful, but it just puts on the pounds. I have gained so much weight from it. I take 0.5 mg. of Klonopin 2x day and hope that will keep the anxiety and panic away. I feel so strong on the Celexa and started driving again after many years and hope I’ll do as well on just the Klonopin. Does anyone have any experience with Klonopin and driving, etc.? I hope someday they come out with an SSRI that doesn’t put weight on you. Thanks. Carolyn
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I am weaning off Celexa. I think it is wonderful, but it just puts on the pounds. I have gained so much weight from it. I take 0.5 mg. of Klonopin 2x day and hope that will keep the anxiety and panic away. I feel so strong on the Celexa and started driving again after many years and hope I’ll do as well on just the Klonopin. Does anyone have any experience with Klonopin and driving, etc.? I hope someday they come out with an SSRI that doesn’t put weight on you. Thanks. Carolyn
i have not had any problems driving on Klonopin, but the first few days you take it you’ll feel groggy, so i wouldn’t drive until that passes. also, you might want to look into Cymbalta. i’m on it and have lost all the weight i gained on Paxil. it’s the best AD i’ve tried yet. -kelly
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Agree, Klonopin is a drug that initially may cause problems with sedation – I’d definitely see how it affected me before I started driving around. The sedative effects of drugs like Klonopin almost always wears off in a matter of weeks, so it shouldn’t be an issue for long, if at all on that dose. G
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I am weaning off Celexa. I think it is wonderful, but it just puts on the pounds. I have gained so much weight from it. I take 0.5 mg. of Klonopin 2x day and hope that will keep the anxiety and panic away. I feel so strong on the Celexa and started driving again after many years and hope I’ll do as well on just the Klonopin. Does anyone have any experience with Klonopin and driving, etc.? I hope someday they come out with an SSRI that doesn’t put weight on you. Thanks. Carolyn
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I take Zoloft during the day and Klonopin at night. Makes me sleep from about midnight till 5 am. I would hesitate to take it during the day. Mia
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I am weaning off Celexa. I think it is wonderful, but it just puts on the pounds. I have gained so much weight from it. I take 0.5 mg. of Klonopin 2x day and hope that will keep the anxiety and panic away. I feel so strong on the Celexa and started driving again after many years and hope I’ll do as well on just the Klonopin. Does anyone have any experience with Klonopin and driving, etc.? I hope someday they come out with an SSRI that doesn’t put weight on you. Thanks. Carolyn
Hey, Carolyn. I know what you mean about SSRIs and weight gain. I have been doing ok on Klonopin alone. I stopped Lexapro many months ago. That is just me, though. Good luck. Vicki
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Hi, Carol, I do understand the weight gain on an AD…UGH! I hope the meds plus self positive talk will help keep you driving. I also have had many problems with driving. I don’t do the interstate alone and haven’t in about 5 years. Within the last year and a half I was able to get myself to drive out of my hometown. I feel mine is not so much anxiety anymore but a deep fear I have implanted within myself. I wish you much success on the Xanax and DO keep driving. smiles, Elise
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am weaning off Celexa. I think it is wonderful, but it just puts on the pounds. I have gained so much weight from it. I take 0.5 mg. of Klonopin 2x day and hope that will keep the anxiety and panic away. I feel so strong on the Celexa and started driving again after many years and hope I’ll do as well on just the Klonopin. Does anyone have any experience with Klonopin and driving, etc.? I hope someday they come out with an SSRI that doesn’t put weight on you. Thanks. Carolyn
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I seem to have lost my message on Klonopin and the great replies from you guys. I guess I forgot to mark it unread. Will Kelly please write again about Cymbalta and let me know how long it took after switching to lose weight? I am switching to Cymbalta next week. I called my doctor after reading her post. Thanks to all who wrote. Carolyn
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Will Kelly please write again about Cymbalta
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – i have not had any problems driving on Klonopin, but the first few days you take it you’ll feel groggy, so i wouldn’t drive until that passes. also, you might want to look into Cymbalta. i’m on it and have lost all the weight i gained on Paxil. it’s the best AD i’ve tried yet. -kelly
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I seem to have lost my message on Klonopin and the great replies from you guys. I guess I forgot to mark it unread. Will Kelly please write again about Cymbalta and let me know how long it took after switching to lose weight? I am switching to Cymbalta next week. I called my doctor after reading her post. Thanks to all who wrote. Carolyn
it only took a week or two before i noticed i wasn’t craving carbs anymore. i do the South Beach diet, and it’s worked really well for me so far. i swear, Cymbalta is my miracle drug. be sure to take it with food though, it can upset your stomach. i usually take it with a small container of low carb yogurt. good luck… -kelly
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I take 2mg. of Klonopin (prn) in conjunction with 100 mgs of Zoloft a day. The problem with using Klonopin for things like driving etc. is that it knocks some people out. I seem to have a high tolerance so it DOES help me, moderately, without sending me to La La Land. Neither drug completely eradicates the panic though……for me anyway. I think that’s the cross most of us bear. Also, zoloft always makes me LOSE weight when I first start it. I’ve been on it at three separate times in my life now, and I’ve lost 11-17 pounds each time. Ask your doc about adding another long acting (The K is short acting) antidepressant/anti-anxiety med to use WITH the occasional Klonopin. Klonopin’s habit forming, so I’d be careful about using it on more than an "as needed basis". Just something to mull. Good Luck, C 
Lor
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am weaning off Celexa. I think it is wonderful, but it just puts on the pounds. I have gained so much weight from it. I take 0.5 mg. of Klonopin 2x day and hope that will keep the anxiety and panic away. I feel so strong on the Celexa and started driving again after many years and hope I’ll do as well on just the Klonopin. Does anyone have any experience with Klonopin and driving, etc.? I hope someday they come out with an SSRI that doesn’t put weight on you. Thanks. Carolyn
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I am weaning off Celexa. I think it is wonderful, but it just puts on the pounds. I have gained so much weight from it. I take 0.5 mg. of Klonopin 2x day and hope that will keep the anxiety and panic away. I feel so strong on the Celexa and started driving again after many years and hope I’ll do as well on just the Klonopin. Does anyone have any experience with Klonopin and driving, etc.? I hope someday they come out with an SSRI that doesn’t put weight on you. Thanks. Carolyn
That is so unfortunate! It sucks when a great drug is ruined by a side-effect. I actually lost wait on Celexa but it didn’t affect my anxiety either way. Maybe they are related. I couldn’t eat on Effexor either – SSRIs just ain’t for me I guess. I must have weird genes. Uthur
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Hi all, I was just wondering if any of you take Klonopin, and if it has had made any difference in your attacks. I have been having a huge resurgence of my panic since a gallbladder surgery I had a week and a half ago. The doc says that I have PTSD which has aggravated my panic symptoms. This new bout has brought extreme attacks of nausea and weakness with sweating and shaking. I am also waking up with this in the night. I hate those nocturnal attacks!!! GRR! Since I have taken Klonopin before and had success, I decided to try it again. So far, so good (knock on wood). But I am now afraid to drive in the car, because the motion aggravates my nausea. Has anyone else had success with Klonopin? Also, any mothers who have taken the drug during pregnancy? I am so dying to have a baby, but I am so nervous to do so drug free! Thanks for listening! Robyn
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I was just wondering if any of you take Klonopin, and if it has had made any difference in your attacks. I have been having a huge resurgence of my panic since a gallbladder surgery I had a week and a half ago. The doc says that I have PTSD which has aggravated my panic symptoms. This new bout has brought extreme attacks of nausea and weakness with sweating and shaking. I am also waking up with this in the night. I hate those nocturnal attacks!!! GRR! Since I have taken Klonopin before and had success, I decided to try it again. So far, so good (knock on wood). But I am now afraid to drive in the car, because the motion aggravates my nausea. Has anyone else had success with Klonopin?
It works very well for all of the above for short term use (< 2 weeks). For long term, see: www.benzo.org.uk Also, any mothers who have taken the drug during pregnancy? I am so dying to have a baby, but I am so nervous to do so drug free!
Benzos (klonopin) do not mix that well with pregnancy. Not much of anything is 100% safe for pregnant people. See the drug info sheets at the above website for further info on klonopin. Dennis.
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, I was just wondering if any of you take Klonopin, and if it has had made any difference in your attacks. I have been having a huge resurgence of my panic since a gallbladder surgery I had a week and a half ago. The doc says that I have PTSD which has aggravated my panic symptoms. This new bout has brought extreme attacks of nausea and weakness with sweating and shaking. I am also waking up with this in the night. I hate those nocturnal attacks!!! GRR! Since I have taken Klonopin before and had success, I decided to try it again. So far, so good (knock on wood). But I am now afraid to drive in the car, because the motion aggravates my nausea. Has anyone else had success with Klonopin? Also, any mothers who have taken the drug during pregnancy? I am so dying to have a baby, but I am so nervous to do so drug free! Thanks for listening! Robyn
Dear Robyn, Talk to your ob/gyn about your anxiety disorder before you get pregnant, discuss what your options are. It is best to try and avoid meds while your pregnant, however a mothers pain and suffering needs to be taken into account too. Here is some info on meds while pregnant. Take care Jackie http://panicdisorder.about.com/msubmeds09.htm Below are the FDA`s pregnancy risk categories. Klonopin is a *D*. I have read alot of articles on the possibility of cleft lips with low…….but caution is highly recommended. Jackie A: Adequate studies in pregnant women have not demonstrated a risk to the fetus in the first trimester of pregnancy and there is no evidence of risk in later trimesters. B: Animal studies have not demonstrated a risk to the fetus, but there are no adequate studies in pregnant women or animal studies have shown an adverse effect, but adequate studies in pregnant women have not demonstrated a risk to the fetus during the first trimester of pregnancy, and there is no evidence of risk in later trimesters. C: Animal studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus, but there are no adequate studies in humans; the benefits of the drug in pregnant women may be acceptable despite its potential risks or there are no animal reproduction studies and no adequate studies in humans. D: There is evidence of human fetal risk, but the potential benefits from the use of the drug in pregnant women may be acceptable despite its potential risks. X: Studies in animals or humans demonstrate fetal abnormalities or adverse reaction reports indicate evidence of fetal risk. The risk of use in a pregnant woman clearly outweighs any possible benefit.
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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I was just wondering if any of you take Klonopin, and if it has had made any difference in your attacks. I have been having a huge resurgence of my panic since a gallbladder surgery I had a week and a half ago. The doc says that I have PTSD which has aggravated my panic symptoms. This new bout has brought extreme attacks of nausea and weakness with sweating and shaking. I am also waking up with this in the night. I hate those nocturnal attacks!!! GRR! Since I have taken Klonopin before and had success, I decided to try it again. So far, so good (knock on wood). But I am now afraid to drive in the car, because the motion aggravates my nausea. Has anyone else had success with Klonopin? It works very well for all of the above for short term use (< 2 weeks). For long term, see: www.benzo.org.uk
I have been on the same dose of Klonopin for over two years now. For chronic PD sufferers, long-term use is sometimes advised. Also, any mothers who have taken the drug during pregnancy? I am so dying to have a baby, but I am so nervous to do so drug free! Benzos (klonopin) do not mix that well with pregnancy. Not much of anything is 100% safe for pregnant people. See the drug info sheets at the above website for further info on klonopin.
Benzodiazepines, like clonazepam (Klonopin) should be used carefully, epecially when pregnant, in conjuction with your physician’s advice. As always, consult your physician — not a website. :: Dan
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Thanks Jackie!
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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, I was just wondering if any of you take Klonopin, and if it has had made any difference in your attacks. I have been having a huge resurgence of my panic since a gallbladder surgery I had a week and a half ago. The doc says that I have PTSD which has aggravated my panic symptoms. This new bout has brought extreme attacks of nausea and weakness with sweating and shaking. I am also waking up with this in the night. I hate those nocturnal attacks!!! GRR! Since I have taken Klonopin before and had success, I decided to try it again. So far, so good (knock on wood). But I am now afraid to drive in the car, because the motion aggravates my nausea. Has anyone else had success with Klonopin? Also, any mothers who have taken the drug during pregnancy? I am so dying to have a baby, but I am so nervous to do so drug free! Thanks for listening! Robyn Dear Robyn, Talk to your ob/gyn about your anxiety disorder before you get pregnant, discuss what your options are. It is best to try and avoid meds while your pregnant, however a mothers pain and suffering needs to be taken into account too. Here is some info on meds while pregnant. Take care Jackie
< snipped Jackie’s great info Hi Robyn, I just want to tell you that I’ve also been on the same dosage of Klonopin for almost 4 years now and it’s been a miracle drug for me… along with Imipramine… Take care, Rich.
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hi all, I was just wondering if any of you take Klonopin, and if it has had made any difference in your attacks. I have been having a huge resurgence of my panic since a gallbladder surgery I had a week and a half ago. The doc says that I have PTSD which has aggravated my panic symptoms. This new bout has brought extreme attacks of nausea and weakness with sweating and shaking. I am also waking up with this in the night. I hate those nocturnal attacks!!! GRR! Since I have taken Klonopin before and had success, I decided to try it again. So far, so good (knock on wood). But I am now afraid to drive in the car, because the motion aggravates my nausea. Has anyone else had success with Klonopin? Also, any mothers who have taken the drug during pregnancy? I am so dying to have a baby, but I am so nervous to do so drug free! Thanks for listening! Robyn
I was on Klonopin ages ago and it didn’t do a thing for me. There are lots of people here in ASAP who have been helped by it though. — Steve
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My pdoc has me on 3 mg of Klonopin each day. It keeps things tolerable for me during the day and at night, but at the end of the workday I am dead tired. If I sit to read or watch TV or do anything sedentary, I fall asleep. Anyone with experiences with this med. I have been on it for about a year. I am also on Depakote ER 1000 for Bipolar II and Werzone 400 for depression which is not completely alleviated by the Depakote. Thanks. LK
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3 mg is a relatively large dose of Klonopin (not saying its not appropriate for you) and seizure disorders excluded. Just saying your tiredness is understandable. I take 0.5mg 1 to 2/day and can be tired. So if I took 3mg id be laid out. In addition to your other meds its no wonder your tired. I always take the approach that id rather be tired than anxious. Best to you. chuck
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How do you take your Klonopin? I take 3 mg a day, but 1mg at a time, in the morning, afternoon, and at bedtime. I also take 300 mg of Effexor, broken up into 2 doses of 150 mg each. I, too, am so tired in the late afternoon. If I’m not standing up, I’m asleep. I cut my afternoon dose to .5 mg, and I’m still tired, but it seems to have helped a little. Then, I have .5 mg to take daily if I need it. I take an afternoon nap. I have to – my family can’t stand to look at me when I start to get cranky, and if I don’t purposely take a nap, I end up falling asleep anyway. In the beginning, I would lay down around 4pm, and they let me sleep until I woke up – big mistake! Now, I sleep about an hour and a half, and I’m going to keep trying to make the time shorter. I tried to cut the afternoon dose out once, and it was a total disaster. I agree with the earlier reply, I would rather be tired than anxious! I’ve even fallen asleep at my son’s karate lessons, but it’s better than having an attack and having to leave without him! I hope you find something that works out for you. A nap isn’t always a bad thing! :-) Carolyn
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My pdoc has me on 3 mg of Klonopin each day. It keeps things tolerable for me during the day and at night, but at the end of the workday I am dead tired. If I sit to read or watch TV or do anything sedentary, I fall asleep. Anyone with experiences with this med. I have been on it for about a year. I am also on Depakote ER 1000 for Bipolar II and Werzone 400 for depression which is not completely alleviated by the Depakote. Thanks. LK
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3 mg is a relatively large dose of Klonopin (not saying its not appropriate for you) and seizure disorders excluded. Just saying your tiredness is understandable. I take 0.5mg 1 to 2/day and can be tired. So if I took 3mg id be laid out. In addition to your other meds its no wonder your tired. I always take the approach that id rather be tired than anxious. Best to you. chuck
Actually 3 mg is an average dose for Klonopin. It is also true that many people can make do with less. YMMV. Philip
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How do you take your Klonopin? I take 3 mg a day, but 1mg at a time, in the morning, afternoon, and at bedtime. I also take 300 mg of Effexor, broken up into 2 doses of 150 mg each. I, too, am so tired in the late afternoon. If I’m not standing up, I’m asleep. I cut my afternoon dose to .5 mg, and I’m still tired, but it seems to have helped a little. Then, I have .5 mg to take daily if I need it. I take an afternoon nap. I have to – my family can’t stand to look at me when I start to get cranky, and if I don’t purposely take a nap, I end up falling asleep anyway. In the beginning, I would lay down around 4pm, and they let me sleep until I woke up – big mistake! Now, I sleep about an hour and a half, and I’m going to keep trying to make the time shorter. I tried to cut the afternoon dose out once, and it was a total disaster. I agree with the earlier reply, I would rather be tired than anxious! I’ve even fallen asleep at my son’s karate lessons, but it’s better than having an attack and having to leave without him! I hope you find something that works out for you. A nap isn’t always a bad thing! :-) Carolyn My pdoc has me on 3 mg of Klonopin each day. It keeps things tolerable for me during the day and at night, but at the end of the workday I am dead tired. If I sit to read or watch TV or do anything sedentary, I fall asleep. Anyone with experiences with this med. I have been on it for about a year. I am also on Depakote ER 1000 for Bipolar II and Werzone 400 for depression which is not completely alleviated by the Depakote. Thanks. LK
being this sedated is not productive. The goal of meds is to alleviate the symptoms without alleviating consciousness as well. Ask your doc about using ritalin or cylert or other stimulants that will not increase anxiety but alertness. Also get your thyroid checked out if it hasn’t been checked in more then a year LM
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Carolyn, Keep in mind that for many Effexor has a down/drowsiness effect. For me it’s just the opposite. My Doc (very experienced) recommended at first I try Effexor at bedtime. Well, that was a mistake for me. As far as the Klonopin, it varies depending upon your bio-chemistry. Just from my personal research it seems as if most get max benefits at 2mg per day, that is if they are also dealing with depressive issues. In fact, pubmed has some research indicated that Klonopin is a last-line anti-depressant–works for many who do not respond to typical ADs. Keep in mind that Effexor also has a dose related response. At 37.5-75mg it is more like an SSRI (prozac, zoloft), at 150mg it is more of a balance between Norepinephrine (NE) and Serotonin. At doses over that dopamine comes into play, making it effective for Attention Deficit Disorders. Be happy to give you references, just email me. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How do you take your Klonopin? I take 3 mg a day, but 1mg at a time, in the morning, afternoon, and at bedtime. I also take 300 mg of Effexor, broken up into 2 doses of 150 mg each. I, too, am so tired in the late afternoon. If I’m not standing up, I’m asleep. I cut my afternoon dose to .5 mg, and I’m still tired, but it seems to have helped a little. Then, I have .5 mg to take daily if I need it. I take an afternoon nap. I have to – my family can’t stand to look at me when I start to get cranky, and if I don’t purposely take a nap, I end up falling asleep anyway. In the beginning, I would lay down around 4pm, and they let me sleep until I woke up – big mistake! Now, I sleep about an hour and a half, and I’m going to keep trying to make the time shorter. I tried to cut the afternoon dose out once, and it was a total disaster. I agree with the earlier reply, I would rather be tired than anxious! I’ve even fallen asleep at my son’s karate lessons, but it’s better than having an attack and having to leave without him! I hope you find something that works out for you. A nap isn’t always a bad thing! :-) Carolyn My pdoc has me on 3 mg of Klonopin each day. It keeps things tolerable for me during the day and at night, but at the end of the workday I am dead tired. If I sit to read or watch TV or do anything sedentary, I fall asleep. Anyone with experiences with this med. I have been on it for about a year. I am also on Depakote ER 1000 for Bipolar II and Werzone 400 for depression which is not completely alleviated by the Depakote. Thanks. LK
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I also believe you need more than medication to help your illness. Don’t depend on drugs to help you out.
(Since I didn’t get the original post I’m using Gwen’s to tack on here. Also, I apoligize for it not being on the thread as I accidentally posted it to mail instead of the NG at first and had to re-post it.) Really? All "therapy" in the world didn’t help me one bit over the years. But Klonopin and Xanax did. Next time you meet an epileptic or a diabetic….just tell them that they shouldn’t "depend on drugs" and that they need therapy. See how far you get… This is a REAL biochemical disorder. <for Goddess sake how many times do we have to go through this! PD is a sign that there are serious things that need to be looked at and treated.
Like what??? The only "serious things" I have wrong with me are damn bad genetics that predispose me to a biochemical imbalance in my brain that causes me to panic for no apparent reason. <period I’ve done my "therapy". No harbored childhood fears, no deep seated neuroses. And, I have even done therapy with other people, as I have a degree in Clionical Psych. Yes, counseling can help people deal with the "effect" of PD, i.e. phobias, etc. But, the root cause, by the reports of most recent studies, seem to be biochemical…and, the evidence mounts every day as further genetic studies and brain chemistry studies are done. Klonopin only makes you feel good for a little while, if you want a long term affect, you need more than that (therapy).
Bullshit! Plain and simple. Klonopin and Xanax do not "make me feel good for a little while". They allow me to function in the same manner Klonopin (an anti-seizure drug) allows an epileptic to function without seizures. I simply have PA’s rather than seizures. And, unfortunately there is no way to measure and quantify my disorder. If there was, I don’t think you would be so hasty in your suggestions. Hopefully, someday we will have a test for PD and be able to quantify it better. But as for now, we’re still in the early phases of research as disorders go. Back when I first started having PA’s in 1976, there was no such thing even listed in the DSM manual. And, quite frankly, I don’t think this disorder belongs in the DSM manual as a "psychiatric disorder". I believe it belongs alongside other disorders such as eplilepsy, narcolepsy, etc. Biochemical brain disorder…NOT psychiatric disorders. Why don’t you go out on the net and read some of the new research regarding PD. Apparently you are not up to date on what the latest research out there. Therapy is for people who are neurotic. People with PD are only neurotic to the point where the attacks make them so. One must first stop the attacks, then address the issues brought about by the PAs. Then, CBT is probably the best therapy for dealing with remaining phobias and limitations brought on by the PD itself. Jen
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I also believe you need more than medication to help your illness. Don’t depend on drugs to help you out. Really? All "therapy" in the world didn’t help me one bit over the years. But Klonopin and Xanax did. Next time you meet an epileptic or a diabetic….just tell them that they shouldn’t "depend on drugs" and that they need therapy. See how far you get…
Oooooo…yeah yeah…..this IS getting old – the addiction/dependence debate. This is a REAL biochemical disorder. <for Goddess sake how many times do we have to go through this!
Um..each time a new person that obviously hasn’t lived with for years comes along? :) I think many *nervous* people think they can relate…MHO… PD is a sign that there are serious things that need to be looked at and treated. Like what??? The only "serious things" I have wrong with me are damn bad genetics that predispose me to a biochemical imbalance in my brain that causes me to panic for no apparent reason. <period
Yup……have the frigging T shirt. Klonopin only makes you feel good for a little while, if you want a
long term affect, you need more than that (therapy). Bullshit! Plain and simple. Klonopin and Xanax do not "make me feel good for a little while". They allow me to function in the same manner Klonopin (an anti-seizure drug) allows an epileptic to function without seizures.
WHY do people think we do these meds for FUN? I have been there pre PD – and I wouldn’t go back. For the life of me I do not grasp this benzo attitude they are BAD things. I thought being housebound was bad…. Therapy is for people who are neurotic. People with PD are only neurotic to the point where the attacks make them so. One must first stop the attacks, then address the issues brought about by the PAs. Then, CBT is probably the best therapy for dealing with remaining phobias and limitations brought on by the PD itself.
Gee….you said it all, Jen. This is really a ME TOO post….but I have learned alot from your thoughts. Just wanted to thank you. The ONLY probs I address in therapy is the fallout from the attacks that have wreaked havok on my life. The attacks are really nothing (don’t ask me that at the time) compared to the mindset they have created about not being able to trust my own body/mind. One has had to live with this to begin to relate – tells me alot about people that post questioning this. Give me benzo’s or give me agoraphobia! Gee, wonder what *I* will choose. Gwen
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Hi, Raul, No, no, no…. I was an airhead yesterday…lol!!! I was confusing my Zoloft with my Clonazepam…I take 2 mg Clonazepam daily (1 in the a.m. and 1 in the p.m.). Sorry if I confused you… (Sometimes I really should re-read my replies). smiles, Elise
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Elise, I take 2-3 .5 mg on a whenever I need it basis. Been taking it for about 5 years. A real life saver if you ask me. Thats an awful big dose you’re takin isn’t it – 50/50 wow. hey whatever works. Peace Raul Hi, Raul, I am on Clonazepam (generic of Klonopin) and I find it very effective for anxiety. I do tend to get tired and do drink small amounts of lite coffee to keep me going. What dosage are you on – I take 100 mg (50 mg in the a.m. and 50 mg in the p.m.). smiles, Elise Hey anyone here taking this ? How are you doing with it ? I take it and it works great but makes me kind of drowsy, highe , other worldly etc. Maybe I need to offset it with some caffeine for everyday use, anybody have experience. Peace to all Raul
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Hey anyone here taking this ? How are you doing with it ? I take it and it works great but makes me kind of drowsy, highe , other worldly etc. Maybe I need to offset it with some caffeine for everyday use, anybody have experience.
I take 1 mg 4 to 5 times a day, for about 3 years. Yes, sometimes it makes me drowsy. Peace to all Raul
And peace to you too Raul! Tono
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:Hey anyone here taking this ? How are you doing with it ? I take it and it :works great but makes me kind of drowsy, highe , other worldly etc. Maybe :I need to offset it with some caffeine for everyday use, anybody have :experience. Dear Raul, I just read in your other post that you take klonopin on a "as needed" basis. Most people find when they take a benzo routinely that the fatigue diminishes, YMMV of course Being you take klonopin only when needed, that could explain why you still get fatigued. If you find this side-effect difficult to deal with, don`t hesitate to talk to your doctor about it. There are other benzos such as xanax, ativan and valium. Perhaps one would work as well as Klonopin but with less fatigue. On the other hand, sometimes one needs to tolerate annoying side-effects in exchange for having their disorder adequately controlled. I`ve been on Paxil for almost 5 years now, it is very effective for me but does cause me to feel tired every single day. For me…..it is small price to pay for living with a lot less anxiety and panic. Take care Jackie ~*~Would you respect my mind more if it bounced gently when I walked~*~
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Hi, Philip, Suffering from airhead-donitis tonight…
It must have been from the 100mg of klonopin! 
That would do it!!!!!! Tono – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, Raul, I am on Clonazepam (generic of Klonopin) and I find it very effective for anxiety. I do tend to get tired and do drink small amounts of lite coffee to keep me going. What dosage are you on – I take 100 mg (50 mg in the a.m. and 50 mg in the p.m.). smiles, Elise And not feeling even a bit drowsy? LOL: I hope you meant 1.0 resp. 0.5 mg…. Philip Hey anyone here taking this ? How are you doing with it ? I take it and it works great but makes me kind of drowsy, highe , other worldly etc. Maybe I need to offset it with some caffeine for everyday use, anybody have experience. Peace to all Raul
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Hey anyone here taking this ? How are you doing with it ? I take it and it works great but makes me kind of drowsy, highe , other worldly etc. Maybe I need to offset it with some caffeine for everyday use, anybody have experience. Peace to all Raul
Hi Raul, when my anxiety was at its peak i took 2mg in the morning and 3mg in the evening. This dose made me a bit drowsy for a month, then i was ok. Now my anxiety is much better i take 1mg in the morning and 1.75mg at night. No longer have any drowsiness and don’t drink much caffeine at all. I use K as a maintenance med, not as needed. I am slowly reducing as I haven’t had a panic attack for several months. The side effects for me are nothing compared to the benefits it has provided me with. I even get a little heartburn now and then if i take the tabs on empty stomach. Again a small price to pay. all the best to you, Vanessa )
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Thanks Jackie, you make good points. After all this time, I find that I can more or less predict my anxiety and panic. Mostly certain social situation but there are other triggers too. Therefore, I have tried to limit my use of the klonopin whenever I can, mostly out of fear it would lose its "magic powers". I have actually tried paxil, and unfortunately found that it didn’t do a whole lot for me. Maybe I will think about trying some of the other benzos as the klono has been the only one I’ve tried (and I’ll tell you its been a miracle to me). I have good doctor but one who is not really familiar with PAD so he gives me a bit of lattitude with my own research. You are right that the feeling of fatigue and other side effects may be a small price to pay, but I want it all baby. Like many others, this disease has robbed me of so, so much and I want every bit of it back and more. Peace Raul
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – :Hey anyone here taking this ? How are you doing with it ? I take it and it :works great but makes me kind of drowsy, highe , other worldly etc. Maybe :I need to offset it with some caffeine for everyday use, anybody have :experience. Dear Raul, I just read in your other post that you take klonopin on a "as needed" basis. Most people find when they take a benzo routinely that the fatigue diminishes, YMMV of course Being you take klonopin only when needed, that could explain why you still get fatigued. If you find this side-effect difficult to deal with, don`t hesitate to talk to your doctor about it. There are other benzos such as xanax, ativan and valium. Perhaps one would work as well as Klonopin but with less fatigue. On the other hand, sometimes one needs to tolerate annoying side-effects in exchange for having their disorder adequately controlled. I`ve been on Paxil for almost 5 years now, it is very effective for me but does cause me to feel tired every single day. For me…..it is small price to pay for living with a lot less anxiety and panic. Take care Jackie ~*~Would you respect my mind more if it bounced gently when I walked~*~
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Oops, you’re right, Tony! I think I DID a "Meryl"…(love ya, Meryl) smiles, Elise
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, Raul, I am on Clonazepam (generic of Klonopin) and I find it very effective for anxiety. I do tend to get tired and do drink small amounts of lite coffee to keep me going. What dosage are you on – I take 100 mg (50 mg in the a.m. and 50 mg in the p.m.). smiles, Elise Elise – Nobody takes 100 mg of Clonazepam per day. I think you’re referring to your Zoloft dose. Raul, I take 2 mg per day. 1 mg in the AM and 1 mg in the afternoon. I also take 100 mg of Zoloft. I do drink a cup of coffee or tea in the morning as I’m naturally slow at waking up and need the lift at work. I usually have a Diet Coke with lunch also to give me a boost. I normally time my dosage of Clonazepam so that I’m feeling calm before I get in my car and drive 25 miles on the highway to work. Hope that gives you an idea of what works for me. Tony
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Chip, Just overlook me tonight – I’m in my airhead mode… smiles, Elise
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, Raul, I am on Clonazepam (generic of Klonopin) and I find it very effective for anxiety. I do tend to get tired and do drink small amounts of lite coffee to keep me going. What dosage are you on – I take 100 mg (50 mg in the a.m. and 50 mg in the p.m.). smiles, Elise I hope that is 0.5 mg in the AM and PM. I take Klonopin 1 mg in the AM and 2 mg in the PM. I’ve never had any side effects since I’ve been on it (for the last 16 years). Chip
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Hi, Philip, Suffering from airhead-donitis tonight… smiles, Elise
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, Raul, I am on Clonazepam (generic of Klonopin) and I find it very effective for anxiety. I do tend to get tired and do drink small amounts of lite coffee to keep me going. What dosage are you on – I take 100 mg (50 mg in the a.m. and 50 mg in the p.m.). smiles, Elise And not feeling even a bit drowsy? LOL: I hope you meant 1.0 resp. 0.5 mg…. Philip Hey anyone here taking this ? How are you doing with it ? I take it and it works great but makes me kind of drowsy, highe , other worldly etc. Maybe I need to offset it with some caffeine for everyday use, anybody have experience. Peace to all Raul
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Hi Elise, I take 2-3 .5 mg on a whenever I need it basis. Been taking it for about 5 years. A real life saver if you ask me. Thats an awful big dose you’re takin isn’t it – 50/50 wow. hey whatever works. Peace Raul
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, Raul, I am on Clonazepam (generic of Klonopin) and I find it very effective for anxiety. I do tend to get tired and do drink small amounts of lite coffee to keep me going. What dosage are you on – I take 100 mg (50 mg in the a.m. and 50 mg in the p.m.). smiles, Elise Hey anyone here taking this ? How are you doing with it ? I take it and it works great but makes me kind of drowsy, highe , other worldly etc. Maybe I need to offset it with some caffeine for everyday use, anybody have experience. Peace to all Raul
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Hi, Raul, I am on Clonazepam (generic of Klonopin) and I find it very effective for anxiety. I do tend to get tired and do drink small amounts of lite coffee to keep me going. What dosage are you on – I take 100 mg (50 mg in the a.m. and 50 mg in the p.m.). smiles, Elise
And not feeling even a bit drowsy? LOL: I hope you meant 1.0 resp. 0.5 mg…. Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hey anyone here taking this ? How are you doing with it ? I take it and it works great but makes me kind of drowsy, highe , other worldly etc. Maybe I need to offset it with some caffeine for everyday use, anybody have experience. Peace to all Raul
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Hey anyone here taking this ? How are you doing with it ? I take it and it works great but makes me kind of drowsy, highe , other worldly etc. Maybe I need to offset it with some caffeine for everyday use, anybody have experience. Peace to all Raul
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Hi, Raul, I am on Clonazepam (generic of Klonopin) and I find it very effective for anxiety. I do tend to get tired and do drink small amounts of lite coffee to keep me going. What dosage are you on – I take 100 mg (50 mg in the a.m. and 50 mg in the p.m.). smiles, Elise
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hey anyone here taking this ? How are you doing with it ? I take it and it works great but makes me kind of drowsy, highe , other worldly etc. Maybe I need to offset it with some caffeine for everyday use, anybody have experience. Peace to all Raul
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Hi, Raul, I am on Clonazepam (generic of Klonopin) and I find it very effective for anxiety. I do tend to get tired and do drink small amounts of lite coffee to keep me going. What dosage are you on – I take 100 mg (50 mg in the a.m. and 50 mg in the p.m.). smiles, Elise
Elise – Nobody takes 100 mg of Clonazepam per day. I think you’re referring to your Zoloft dose. Raul, I take 2 mg per day. 1 mg in the AM and 1 mg in the afternoon. I also take 100 mg of Zoloft. I do drink a cup of coffee or tea in the morning as I’m naturally slow at waking up and need the lift at work. I usually have a Diet Coke with lunch also to give me a boost. I normally time my dosage of Clonazepam so that I’m feeling calm before I get in my car and drive 25 miles on the highway to work. Hope that gives you an idea of what works for me. Tony
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Hi, Raul, I am on Clonazepam (generic of Klonopin) and I find it very effective for anxiety. I do tend to get tired and do drink small amounts of lite coffee to keep me going. What dosage are you on – I take 100 mg (50 mg in the a.m. and 50 mg in the p.m.). smiles, Elise
I hope that is 0.5 mg in the AM and PM. I take Klonopin 1 mg in the AM and 2 mg in the PM. I’ve never had any side effects since I’ve been on it (for the last 16 years). Chip
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I’ve been taking it a night. I tend to spend hours at the window. I think that people are outside plotting against me. This stuff really has helped me not worry so much and get some sleep. Anyother experiences with this med?
Yeah, I experienced the horrible withdrawal from Paxil and Klonopin simultaneously. My doc doesn’t think too highly of Klonopin. When I took it I felt like I needed more. It was like the "drug that did almost but not quite what you wanted it to do". In my case I wanted to lose most of my inhibitions. After abusing the drug and taking 4x the dose, I found that I wasn’t losing inhibitions, I was just being an asshole and acting the part.
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I’ve been taking it a night. I tend to spend hours at the window. I think that people are outside plotting against me. This stuff really has helped me not worry so much and get some sleep. Anyother experiences with this med?
I take the medication. I take 2.5 miligrams in the morning and 2.5 at night. It has helped me recollect alot of my anxiety and alot of the stress the anxiety was putting on my body has subsided. I dont expect to be on it forever but just until alot of the stress has gone away. Then I will probablly move to something such as Vistaril which is non adictive antihistamine used to treat anxiety. Also dont ever quit your klonopin cold turkey. Taper off of it and make sure you are put on something that is non adictive like Vistrail or Buspar. Perferably Vistrail which I have been on before and had success with. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – —–= Posted via Newsfeeds.Com, Uncensored Usenet News =—– http://www.newsfeeds.com – The #1 Newsgroup Service in the World! —–== Over 100,000 Newsgroups – 19 Different Servers! =—–
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I also had two situations where I ran out of the Klonopin 1-2 days early. (Due to extreme stress, I had upped my dose by a pill for about 3 days which had been OK’d by the doctor). When I went to pick up my refill, the pharmacy wouldn’t fill it due to the date listed on my prescription bottle. Apparently, the computer figures out when you should be coming in for the refill due to your original written prescription. In any case, it was horrible. I couldn’t take another pill since I was trying to make the few I had stretch over the day, but that’s when I needed the meds the most. In my case, the pharmacy wouldn’t refill it due to the law. My doctor called and straightened it out. Being off Klonopin cold turkey is downright dangerous and that made me even more anxious. If your doctor was unwilling to give you any, it must not be you, but some situation in past that affected them. I’d change doctors or at least get another’s opinion. I think you (and he/she) were playing with fire!!!! Hope everything is fine! Jen:) PS: I built up to the standard 3 mgs-4 mgs a day, but I try to keep it at 3 if I possibly can!
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I’m very envious… My pharmacy has nice people and they are the least expensive, but they’re normally inflexible. I once put in a prescription for the Klonopin a week before I needed it since I was switching to my husband’s insurance. The insurance company screwed up (We called, the pharmacy called, his company called) and they are directly online with the prescription program. (Which was probally the problem, they couldn’t override the computer) By the time it was taken care of, it was 1 day past. The manager refused to give me medication, but the woman who had done the calling and was there when I turned it in, kept giving me enough until the Insurance Co. okayed it. What a nightmare. It’s that one situation that keeps me going back as the one woman is very understanding. Her boss is a jerk, but you make a good point. I’ll start to look around. Thanks.
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Philip, ..5 mgs. of Klonopin is nothing; I don’t even understand how your therapist thinks that will work. I’m not going to tell you how much I take but I ran out 10 days early and the dr. made me wait; I was sure I would die without it!!!!! Klonopin is THE hardest benzo to get off of because it is the most like alcohol. Change therapists; she sounds like a bitch. Take care, Kathryn
Hi Kathryn, Your message was not addressed to me but to the original poster to whom I replied. But I take this opportunity to say that although I appreciate your problems in getting off Klonopin, it’s generally speaking not true that this is the most difficult benzo to get off. In fact, none is if the taper is done slowly. But most of the time when there are withdrawal problems they’re with the shorter-acting benzo’s like Xanax or Ativan. OTOH *any* med when stopped *cold turkey* as you obviously had to, will create big problems. It’s irresponsible to quit like that and if your doctor was at fault here he’s to be avoided by every PD-er or even sued for malpractice. Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – But I don’t feel panicky all of the time. I just can’t get on public transportation. I don’t know what to do . Maybe change therapists. This one doesn’t seem to be helping me. Today she all but told me that I’m a hopeless case and that there is nothing that she can do for me. And the sessions are so short that it seems like all she does is get me pissed off and then the 45 minutes are over. I’m getting really desparate. Today I did a bad thing. Iee of my 0.5mg Klonopin tablets in the space of two hours. I’m not dead yet so I guess it won’t kill me. But I feel so incredible depressed and mostly angry as this quack therapist. Aaaaaarrrrgggghhhhhh!!!! If you only feel anxiety with public transport you really don’t have PD but a *single phobia* which is very treatable through CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) which is the domain of the clinical psychologist specialized in that kind of therapy. It’s not a talk-therapy so much as a do-therapy. Nobody will ask you about how you were treated when you were a kid. But you will learn to redirect your thinking in a more positive way regarding public transport and then it’s a matter of *baby steps*, gradual exposure to the dreaded public transport (first one stop etc.etc.) while having learnt relaxation and other tools. Philip
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<snipped for brevity I’m not going to tell you how much I take but I ran out 10 days early and the dr. made me wait; I was sure I would die without it!!!!! Klonopin is THE hardest benzo to get off of because it is the most like alcohol. Change therapists; she sounds like a bitch. Take care, Kathryn
Hi, Kathryn — Why not tell us how much you take? I’m really curious. What do you mean, you ran out early? And the doctor made you wait? Klonopin may be the hardest benzo to get off of, especially cold turkey, if that’s the only benzo you’ve been on. Unfortunately, I’ve found the hardest benzo to come off of cold turkey is Xanax. In fact, my doctor at the time would have a tizzy when I told him what I was doing — after about day 3 when I’m about to crawl out of my skin. I say, change your doctor! I have been lectured and lectured about not running out of my benzos (Xanax is what I take now), and after many awful experiences of having done so, I now know that’s the last thing that would be helpful to me. Then, of course, there were the doctors at the local mental health clinic who as a general policy did not prescribe benzos. It seemed their first order of business was to get me off Xanax. They did so by switching me to Ativan and put me on a 15-day withdrawl program. It was awful, and it didn’t work. Supposedly, the Paxil I was taking would have had time to kick in by the end of this horrific tapering program of theirs and I wouldn’t be feeling anxiety, but that’s not what happened. I’ll save you from some of the other stories I have about my experiences with attempting to deal with my depression and anxiety and what I’ve encountered in that regard. And, sorry, I just don’t understand what you’re talking about with your comparison of Klonopin to alcohol. Best Wishes — Blue
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If you only feel anxiety with public transport you really don’t have PD but a *single phobia* which is very treatable through CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) which is the domain of the clinical psychologist specialized in that kind of therapy. It’s not a talk-therapy so much as a do-therapy. Nobody will ask you about how you were treated when you were a kid. But you will learn to redirect your thinking in a more positive way regarding public transport and then it’s a matter of *baby steps*, gradual exposure to the dreaded public transport (first one stop etc.etc.) while having learnt relaxation and other tools. Philip Well, I *guess* that’ what my therapist is trying to do. We’re trying these relaxtion exercises but to be perfectly honest, they don’t relax me. I suppose if I stick with her long enough, we’ll try actually getting on a bus. Be I don’t trust her or feel at all comfortable with her so I see it as being an extremely negative stressful experience. Stu
There are at least two possibilities: your relationship with the therapist may be bad as you say you don’t trust her and don’t feel comfortable with her. That’s more than enough reason to find another therapist as mutual trust is a *conditio sine qua non*. Moreover, relaxation excercizes are not nearly anough. This sounds like *classical behaviour therapy* in which you first make the whole trip in your mind when your body is relaxed (*in vitro*) and then try it *in vivo*. This is now not being done anymore as it is proven that *gradual exposure to situational triggers* (directly *in vivo*) works much better. It’s hard work as it means confronting your fears and actually getting panicky. I think you should find another therapist and find oput if (s)he practices *Cognitive Behavioural Therapy*. Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –
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Philip, ..5 mgs. of Klonopin is nothing; I don’t even understand how your therapist thinks that will work. I’m not going to tell you how much I take but I ran out 10 days early and the dr. made me wait; I was sure I would die without it!!!!! Klonopin is THE hardest benzo to get off of because it is the most like alcohol. Change therapists; she sounds like a bitch. Take care, Kathryn – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – But I don’t feel panicky all of the time. I just can’t get on public transportation. I don’t know what to do . Maybe change therapists. This one doesn’t seem to be helping me. Today she all but told me that I’m a hopeless case and that there is nothing that she can do for me. And the sessions are so short that it seems like all she does is get me pissed off and then the 45 minutes are over. I’m getting really desparate. Today I did a bad thing. Iee of my 0.5mg Klonopin tablets in the space of two hours. I’m not dead yet so I guess it won’t kill me. But I feel so incredible depressed and mostly angry as this quack therapist. Aaaaaarrrrgggghhhhhh!!!! If you only feel anxiety with public transport you really don’t have PD but a *single phobia* which is very treatable through CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) which is the domain of the clinical psychologist specialized in that kind of therapy. It’s not a talk-therapy so much as a do-therapy. Nobody will ask you about how you were treated when you were a kid. But you will learn to redirect your thinking in a more positive way regarding public transport and then it’s a matter of *baby steps*, gradual exposure to the dreaded public transport (first one stop etc.etc.) while having learnt relaxation and other tools. Philip
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m having some anxiety problems and have been seeing a psychologist for several weeks about it. We haven’t had much success so far so she recommended that in addition to the therapy she’s giving me, I get with a doctor who might prescribe some meds to help with the problem. The doctor has given me a prescription for Klonopin. I think 0.5mg twice a day. After cruising the web, I see dozens of messages about Klonopin being addictive and I’m a little worried about it. What kind of addiction are we talking about? I don’t want to become some kind of drug fiend. Of course I will discuss this with my doctor but I thought I’d ask the question here as well. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Stuart
Hi Stuart, I’ve been taking 0.5mg of Klonopin for 2 years every day, and do NOT feel addicted, nor do I feel a craving for more, or a need to increase the dose. I have found my optimal dosage level, and am now on a MAINTENANCE dose. As such, I do not feel irritable, since the effect of the drug is never allowed to completely diminish. Klonopin has been proven useful in anxiety, in particular SOCIAL PHOBIA. Also, Klonopin is very effective at small doses. Xanax is probably a better choice for panic attacks, as it is quick-acting, whereas Klonopin is slow-acting but long-lasting. The following link is related to Klonopin: http://uhs.bsd.uchicago.edu/~bhsiung/tips/social.html . Regards and Good Luck.
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Stuart– I have only been on Klonopin for about 8 months total–including going off of it when I first found out I was pregnant.
Hi Holly, Just for everyone’s info., it was not necessary for you to go off the Klonopin when you were pregnant. Seems most OB’s and p-docs who treat pregnant women think that the K has almost no likelihood of causing developmental problems. Actaully, most think that a mother with constant anxiety or PD’s can be much more detrimental to the developing fetus. I know that Dr. Shipko has written on this topic and he supports the use of Klonopin during pregnancy when it is necessary. Most women seem to have a natural "remission" from PD during pregnancy however. I did through both of my pregnancies. Just a FYI post for all. Best Wishes, Jen
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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – It’s nonsense. Benzodiazepines (of which Klonopin is one) are not *addictive*. Addiction means that you crave a drug – often in ever higher doses – even when it does nothing but harm. *Dependence* is another thing and can occur with benzo’s and some AD’s. <snip What Philip said! Plus, I have been on Klonopin and off of it a number of times. It is not hard to wean off of if you do it SLOWLY. Most people try to rush themselves off of meds and then have bad side effects and withdrawal symptoms. My p-doc does not think that it is unreasonable to take a YEAR to get off of a bezno; depending on how much you are taking and how long you have been on it! NOW, that’s a long time! Klonopin is a great med for PD. It has worked for me wonderfully over the years with no major side effects after the initial "break-in" period. Same goes for Xanax. (I take a combo of the two right now.) As for dosages, it’s always a YMMV thing…but, according to ‘most’ sources, 3 mgs or more of Klonopin is considered a therapeutic dose for PD. One should "work up" to this dosage however. You will feel groggy for the first few weeks, but that will pass. And then, you will just feel like yourself, minus all the anxiety and panic.
But I don’t feel panicky all of the time. I just can’t get on public transportation. I don’t know what to do . Maybe change therapists. This one doesn’t seem to be helping me. Today she all but told me that I’m a hopeless case and that there is nothing that she can do for me. And the sessions are so short that it seems like all she does is get me pissed off and then the 45 minutes are over. I’m getting really desparate. Today I did a bad thing. Iee of my 0.5mg Klonopin tablets in the space of two hours. I’m not dead yet so I guess it won’t kill me. But I feel so incredible depressed and mostly angry as this quack therapist. Aaaaaarrrrgggghhhhhh!!!!
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I’m having some anxiety problems and have been seeing a psychologist for several weeks about it. We haven’t had much success so far so she recommended that in addition to the therapy she’s giving me, I get with a doctor who might prescribe some meds to help with the problem. The doctor has given me a prescription for Klonopin. I think 0.5mg twice a day. After cruising the web, I see dozens of messages about Klonopin being addictive and I’m a little worried about it. What kind of addiction are we talking about? I don’t want to become some kind of drug fiend. Of course I will discuss this with my doctor but I thought I’d ask the question here as well. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Stuart
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A legitimate concern, Stuart, but rest assured, it’s worth the unknowns.. I myself resited going on Klonopin for quite awhile because I’d heard it was addictive, but it is not the sort of addiction that will kill you or cause lifelong struggles to break the habit. A good doctor, once making the determination that you no longer need the K, will ween you off slowly over several months time, and it will be completely painless.. unless of course you have an anxiety relapse, but that would not be due to the Klonopin withdrawal, being that it is done right. Being ‘ON’ K, or addicted to it, is not like getting high. You take it to suppress anxiety, and it works. Blessings. So getting off it is just a matter of overcoming your fear of anxiety attacks, and whatever else you’re experiencing. Hey, MsLadyMel! Help this guy out please. -Horse
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I’m having some anxiety problems and have been seeing a psychologist for several weeks about it. We haven’t had much success so far so she recommended that in addition to the therapy she’s giving me, I get with a doctor who might prescribe some meds to help with the problem. The doctor has given me a prescription for Klonopin. I think 0.5mg twice a day. After cruising the web, I see dozens of messages about Klonopin being addictive and I’m a little worried about it. What kind of addiction are we talking about? I don’t want to become some kind of drug fiend. Of course I will discuss this with my doctor but I thought I’d ask the question here as well. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Stuart
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I’m having some anxiety problems and have been seeing a psychologist for several weeks about it. We haven’t had much success so far so she recommended that in addition to the therapy she’s giving me, I get with a doctor who might prescribe some meds to help with the problem. The doctor has given me a prescription for Klonopin. I think 0.5mg twice a day. After cruising the web, I see dozens of messages about Klonopin being addictive and I’m a little worried about it. What kind of addiction are we talking about? I don’t want to become some kind of drug fiend. Of course I will discuss this with my doctor but I thought I’d ask the question here as well. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Stuart
It’s nonsense. Benzodiazepines (of which Klonopin is one) are not *addictive*. Addiction means that you crave a drug – often in ever higher doses – even when it does nothing but harm. *Dependence* is another thing and can occur with benzo’s and some AD’s. It means that you should never stop a med suddenly but instead taper off slowly so as to counteract possible withdrawal symptoms. With benzo’s people typically have to experiment a bit with their doctor to find the right therapeutic dose. I have *never* heard of PD-ers taking ever higher doses. Usually we stay on the prescribed dose or lower it. Now Klonopin as a long-working benzo and as such presents much less withdrawal problems than short-working benzo’s. Typical therapeutic dosage of Klonopin is around 3 mgs so you’re not taking much. You may even be underprescribed. What kind of therapy does you psychologist give? It’s a documented fact that although talk therapy of all sorts may be useful to address issues surrounding PD, it doesn’t do anything to het rid of the symptoms. The therapy of choice for this is *Cognitive Behaviour Therapy*. Naybe you might want to ask your psychologist about that. Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –
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It’s nonsense. Benzodiazepines (of which Klonopin is one) are not *addictive*. Addiction means that you crave a drug – often in ever higher doses – even when it does nothing but harm. *Dependence* is another thing and can occur with benzo’s and some AD’s. <snip
What Philip said! Plus, I have been on Klonopin and off of it a number of times. It is not hard to wean off of if you do it SLOWLY. Most people try to rush themselves off of meds and then have bad side effects and withdrawal symptoms. My p-doc does not think that it is unreasonable to take a YEAR to get off of a bezno; depending on how much you are taking and how long you have been on it! NOW, that’s a long time! Klonopin is a great med for PD. It has worked for me wonderfully over the years with no major side effects after the initial "break-in" period. Same goes for Xanax. (I take a combo of the two right now.) As for dosages, it’s always a YMMV thing…but, according to ‘most’ sources, 3 mgs or more of Klonopin is considered a therapeutic dose for PD. One should "work up" to this dosage however. You will feel groggy for the first few weeks, but that will pass. And then, you will just feel like yourself, minus all the anxiety and panic. (If the med works for you! Nothing is guaranteed. ) Please, feel free to e-mail me if you would like more info on Klonopin or Xanax and my experience with them. Best Wishes, Jen
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But I don’t feel panicky all of the time. I just can’t get on public transportation. I don’t know what to do . Maybe change therapists. This one doesn’t seem to be helping me. Today she all but told me that I’m a hopeless case and that there is nothing that she can do for me. And the sessions are so short that it seems like all she does is get me pissed off and then the 45 minutes are over. I’m getting really desparate. Today I did a bad thing. Iee of my 0.5mg Klonopin tablets in the space of two hours. I’m not dead yet so I guess it won’t kill me. But I feel so incredible depressed and mostly angry as this quack therapist. Aaaaaarrrrgggghhhhhh!!!!
If you only feel anxiety with public transport you really don’t have PD but a *single phobia* which is very treatable through CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) which is the domain of the clinical psychologist specialized in that kind of therapy. It’s not a talk-therapy so much as a do-therapy. Nobody will ask you about how you were treated when you were a kid. But you will learn to redirect your thinking in a more positive way regarding public transport and then it’s a matter of *baby steps*, gradual exposure to the dreaded public transport (first one stop etc.etc.) while having learnt relaxation and other tools. Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –
Response:
If you only feel anxiety with public transport you really don’t have PD but a *single phobia* which is very treatable through CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) which is the domain of the clinical psychologist specialized in that kind of therapy. It’s not a talk-therapy so much as a do-therapy. Nobody will ask you about how you were treated when you were a kid. But you will learn to redirect your thinking in a more positive way regarding public transport and then it’s a matter of *baby steps*, gradual exposure to the dreaded public transport (first one stop etc.etc.) while having learnt relaxation and other tools. Philip
Well, I *guess* that’ what my therapist is trying to do. We’re trying these relaxtion exercises but to be perfectly honest, they don’t relax me. I suppose if I stick with her long enough, we’ll try actually getting on a bus. Be I don’t trust her or feel at all comfortable with her so I see it as being an extremely negative stressful experience. Stu
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But I don’t feel panicky all of the time. I just can’t get on public transportation. I don’t know what to do.
If that is the case, then maybe you could use something like Xanax PRN. In other words, just when you need it. Maybe change therapists. This one doesn’t seem to be helping me. Today she all but old me that I’m a hopeless case and that there is nothing that she can do for me. And the sessions are so short that it seems like all she does is get me pissed off and then the 45 minutes are over.
This is totally a inappropriate way for a therapist to behave. Please, don’t walk, run away from this person and find yourself a good therapist who does cognitive behavioral therapy and is willing to give you a prescription for Xanax to get you through the early sessions. IMO, I think this would be your best bet. I’m getting really desparate. Today I did a bad thing. Iee of my 0.5mg Klonopin tablets in the space of two hours. I’m not dead yet so I guess it won’t kill me. But I feel so incredible depressed and mostly angry as this quack therapist.
No, that amount of Klonopin will not come even close to killing you. There are people who take 10 mgs plus per day of Klonopin for seizure control. The amount we take for panic and anxiety is actually quite small comapratively. Aaaaaarrrrgggghhhhhh!!!!
I understand your frustration. There is nothing worse than having a bad doctor or therapist. Let us know where you are located and maybe someone can recommend a good doc or therapist for you. In the meantime, you can "interview" other doctors and therapists. It is well worth the time and effort to do so. Then you are assured of a good "match". Best Wishes, Jen
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I’ve been taking 0.5mg of Klonopin for 2 years every day, and do NOT feel addicted, nor do I feel a craving for more, or a need to increase the dose. I have found my optimal dosage level, and am now on a MAINTENANCE dose. As such, I do not feel irritable, since the effect of the drug is never allowed to completely diminish. Klonopin has been proven useful in anxiety, in particular SOCIAL PHOBIA. Also, Klonopin is very effective at small doses. Xanax is probably a better choice for panic attacks, as it is quick-acting, whereas Klonopin is slow-acting but long-lasting.
What exactly does Klonopin do for you? All it’s done for me is make me tired. An irritable. And what is SOCIAL PHOBIA? I don’t know if I mentioned it earlier but my problem is that I can’t get on public transportation (had a bad experience two years ago where I had to get off and just barely found a rest room in time). My therapist has been trying these relaxation techniques that so far have been completely ineffectual. Can you please recommend something, or at least somehting that I can talk to the doctor about? I’m getting desparate!!!!!
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What kind of therapy does you psychologist give? It’s a documented fact that although talk therapy of all sorts may be useful to address issues surrounding PD, it doesn’t do anything to het rid of the symptoms. The therapy of choice for this is *Cognitive Behaviour Therapy*. Naybe you might want to ask your psychologist about that. Philip
My problem is that I can’t get on mass transit. I had a couple bad experiences and ever since then, I’ve not been able to do it. Since I don’t drive (I’m afraid to do that too), mass transit is my only way to get to work. My threapist has tried something (I forget what seh called it) where I was to close my eyes and bescripbe going to the bus stop and waiting for the bus. Of couse I couldn’t do it. I did it too fast for her. I don’t really know what she wanted. At one point I just sat there with my eyes close and she did the talking. Afterward she wanted me to describe how I felt. I didn’t feel anything. Another time she wanted me to try these breathing exercises. Again these did nothing. Last week I was telling her that I felt depressed because I fel that none of the stuff we were trying was doing anything for me and that I was afraid that I was going to have to move because I can’t see her being able to fix my problems. She suggested that I look into getting some books by, I think, Aaron Beck. Ever hear of him? Stu
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Stuart– I have only been on Klonopin for about 8 months total–including going off of it when I first found out I was pregnant. I have to say that this drug has done wonders for me where my anxiety is concerned. I have a lot of problems with the physical symptoms and obsessing about them. I am pretty much fully functioning, but worry constantly, and constantly monitor my physical symptoms. What the Klonopin has done for me is to reduce the symptoms and allow me to slowly stop worrying about them to some degree. What I found really amazing was that it has done all this and I in no way feel "drugged up" like I was expecting to when I first started taking it. I was expecting to be more or less zoned out, but I feel nothing like that. I feel like myself, but without the physical symptoms. There was some drowsiness in the beginning when I would take .5mg at once. I take .25mg twice during the day and .5mgs at night. But then at the time I also welcomed the sleepiness because I was having troubles getting to and staying asleep. Anyways, after my long rant, I encourage you to give Klonopin a try. I think it can really help and provide you with some relief. And I personally wouldn’t worry about becoming addicted. I think that you will find it to be a great support in your fight with anxiety. Holly
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What kind of therapy does you psychologist give? It’s a documented fact that although talk therapy of all sorts may be useful to address issues surrounding PD, it doesn’t do anything to het rid of the symptoms. The therapy of choice for this is *Cognitive Behaviour Therapy*. Naybe you might want to ask your psychologist about that. Philip My problem is that I can’t get on mass transit. I had a couple bad experiences and ever since then, I’ve not been able to do it. Since I don’t drive (I’m afraid to do that too), mass transit is my only way to get to work. My threapist has tried something (I forget what seh called it) where I was to close my eyes and bescripbe going to the bus stop and waiting for the bus. Of couse I couldn’t do it. I did it too fast for her. I don’t really know what she wanted.
What she (rather clumsily, it seems) aimed at was trying to let you visualize the anxiety-trigger of public transport in a relaxed state of body and mind (this is called *in vitro*) so that ultimately when you were to do it *in vivo* (in reality) the stimulus of *fear* would be replaced by that of *relaxation*. Obviously it didn’t work. It *can* work but it takes a lot of time to practice and it’s regarded as *obsolete*. At one point I just sat there with my eyes close and she did the talking. Afterward she wanted me to describe how I felt. I didn’t feel anything. Another time she wanted me to try these breathing exercises. Again these did nothing. Last week I was telling her that I felt depressed because I fel that none of the stuff we were trying was doing anything for me and that I was afraid that I was going to have to move because I can’t see her being able to fix my problems. She suggested that I look into getting some books by, I think, Aaron Beck. Ever hear of him?
Aaron Beck is the author (with Gary Emory) of a good book on CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) called "Anxiety and Phobias. The Cognitive View". CBT is a combination of two earlier therapies: Albert Ellis’s RET (Rational Emotive Therapy) which aims at *restructuring catastrophic thinking* and orthodox behaviour therapy (the relaxation example). This is the therapy of choice for anx/pan but like every therapy it depends on the therapist (and on the interaction betwen therapist and client) how eel it may work. It sounds that you don’t have the ideal therapist, if I may be so bold as to conclude this from so few data. CBT can do a world of good for *situational anxieties* like public transport but it takes a while of *desensitizing* (and this is the *B* – in my book the most important part of CBT) by means of *gradual exposure to situational triggers* while using tools for reassurance which are to be discovered in the therapist’s office and are very personal (I for instance use relaxation of shoulder muscles, distraction by looking at the environment, visualizing a sunny clearing in the woods and singing in my mind a soothing song). This should be practiced: day by day, taking very small steps (*baby steps*) at a time so as to win over the territory. At the same time the *C* part of CBT may be used by telling yourself that whatever uneasiness or panic you feel it’s *just* that and you won’t have a heart attack or go out of your mind or make a spectacle of yourself etc.etc. The problem with this is that it takes some time to slowly reach a state in which you can use public transport. This might mean that you should be on sick-leave (if at all possible) for a few weeks in which you practice. Another possibility is to take meds with Xanax as the first option. Xanax will at least take the edge off a PA for most people within 15 minutes and consequently the use of Xanax will enable you to practice the CBT-exercizes. Philip – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Stu
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I am having considerable stress and anticipatory anxiety at work but can’t afford to quit my job. I have been taking 1 mg of klonopin every morning for almost 8 years now I think. I am not sleeping or eating due to the anticipatory anxiety and job stress. I am going to up the dose to 2 mg. Is this too much? I also lose my voice regularly due to this anxiety. I have been thinking about suicide but I am going to do that. I need to work probably another 15 years. Any advice from anyone would be deeply appreciated. I plan on taking 1 mg in the mornings and one before bedtime. The 2 mg tablets are scored and I simply break them in half. I can handle the loss of appetite, but the sleep deprivation is driving me
crazy. Hi Carl, I am currently on 3mg of K per day. 1 mg in the morning and 2 mg in the early evening. I have been as high as 5mg per day when I was having panic attacks all day due to a major setback. Prior to this I was on 1mg am/1mg pm for about 6 years and it worked well to keep anxiety at a managable level. Despite severe agoraphobia and panic disorder I have worked for the past 20 years and have hardly missed a day of work due to anxiety. The medication was not enough to help me get through the day – strategies and coping techniques from cognitive behavioural therapy helped me manage my condition. An increase in Klonopin early evening may help with sleep as it can make you drowsy. I find lack of sleep to make anxiety worse. Vanessa
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I’ve been taking Clonazepam since June 1997. I initially started at 1mg every 8 hours (3 mg per day) when I was extremely anxious and my case of Panic Disorder was not manageable. For the past 4 years I’ve been taking up to 2 mg on a stressful day. I usually take 1 mg in the morning and 1 mg about 8 hours later. Good luck, Tony
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Thanks Vanessa. What kind of work do you do? Is it stressful? I am a blue collar worker for a major Oil Company. ___Carl
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am having considerable stress and anticipatory anxiety at work but can’t afford to quit my job. I have been taking 1 mg of klonopin every morning for almost 8 years now I think. I am not sleeping or eating due to the anticipatory anxiety and job stress. I am going to up the dose to 2 mg. Is this too much? I also lose my voice regularly due to this anxiety. I have been thinking about suicide but I am going to do that. I need to work probably another 15 years. Any advice from anyone would be deeply appreciated. I plan on taking 1 mg in the mornings and one before bedtime. The 2 mg tablets are scored and I simply break them in half. I can handle the loss of appetite, but the sleep deprivation is driving me crazy. Hi Carl, I am currently on 3mg of K per day. 1 mg in the morning and 2 mg in the early evening. I have been as high as 5mg per day when I was having panic attacks all day due to a major setback. Prior to this I was on 1mg am/1mg pm for about 6 years and it worked well to keep anxiety at a managable level. Despite severe agoraphobia and panic disorder I have worked for the past 20 years and have hardly missed a day of work due to anxiety. The medication was not enough to help me get through the day – strategies and coping techniques from cognitive behavioural therapy helped me manage my condition. An increase in Klonopin early evening may help with sleep as it can make you drowsy. I find lack of sleep to make anxiety worse. Vanessa
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Thanks Tony for your input. This is a wonderful group. ___Carl
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve been taking Clonazepam since June 1997. I initially started at 1mg every 8 hours (3 mg per day) when I was extremely anxious and my case of Panic Disorder was not manageable. For the past 4 years I’ve been taking up to 2 mg on a stressful day. I usually take 1 mg in the morning and 1 mg about 8 hours later. Good luck, Tony
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Thanks Vanessa. What kind of work do you do? Is it stressful? I am a blue collar worker for a major Oil Company.
I am an e-Learning designer for a large Australian organisation. Pressure levels go up and down depending on the project I am working on, but I work well under such pressure as it keeps my mind pre-occupied from my anxieties and phobias. But it is not physically stressful as I imagine your work would be. Vanessa
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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thanks Vanessa. What kind of work do you do? Is it stressful? I am a blue collar worker for a major Oil Company. I am an e-Learning designer for a large Australian organisation. Pressure levels go up and down depending on the project I am working on, but I work well under such pressure as it keeps my mind pre-occupied from my anxieties and phobias. But it is not physically stressful as I imagine your work would be. Vanessa
I take 1mg klonopin daily for anxiety. I think Vanessa’s statement concerning "mind pre-occupied" is very important. I am retired and found my self withdrawing from most everybody and everything and, as a result, found my anxiety getting progressively worse. Fortunately, I realized that I MUST do something to occupy my mind so that I didn’t dwell on my anxieties, so I started to volunteer at the nearest VA hospital twice weekly. Seeing the veterans and their plights as well as meeting new people in the pharmacy where I volunteer has helped me greatly. My work there involves dispensing the medications to the veterans at the pickup window, so I get to meet them and I try to brighten their day a little, if possible, by showing a special interest in them. Prior to starting the volunteer work, I was having to take .25mg Xanax almost daily in addition to the Klonopin to keep the anxiety at a tolerable level. Since starting to do something constructive, I have not had to take any Xanax at all and my breakthrough anxiety has been virtually nil. Although I drive 140 miles round trip, I have found that the drive is wlll worth the benefit I have derived, not to mention the help I am giving the veterans. On the days that I am not involved with the volunteer work, I now make a real effort to plan something to occupy my time/mind whether it be a trip or some task. It really helps. Hope this helps someone. John
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However I have a high tolerance to meds in general. For me, paxil did the trick with little side effects. The trouble with Klonopin is that it is a benzo and you will develop a resistance to it over time and will need higher doses for the same effect. Also, withdrawal is HELL.
These 3 statements from you explain only your situation and not the case for everyone. I have been on the same dose of Xanax for 1 1/2 years. Paxil for *me* was hell on my anxiety but works for you. See the difference? I use Xanax to keep my anxiety at a tolerable level, not to be completely free of anxiety. That’s not going to happen and people who think so will be disappointed. And these individuals are the ones that take more and more seeking a complete relief.
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Ok, Ok, I’m sorry. Just got carried away there for a minute. Didnt mean to offend anyone. Sorry preston. My meds are kicking in. I’m fine. Pete —
Wow, hope you are feeling better, Pete. Take care of yourself. Vicki
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I used to take xanax was..switched to elivil..dosages continued to increase..but did nothing…doc switched me to klonopin low dose..at first i took it during the day…now i am weaned off elivil and i take klonopin it at night….i sleep better…and am managing better …no anger problems here….only side effects are thirst at times and lack of appetite at times…. like i have said before…everyone is differant…differant meds ..affect people in diffrant ways……i fought the klonopin for a while..but now i am glad i decided to take it….i do not have any homicidal thoughts..or anger issues with it…it does knock me out….for a few hours..LOL…of which i no doubt need….everyone is differant…..i suppose….take care…and maybe you guys need to like shake hands and be cool….we all share the same problems…so lets be nice to one another…compassion is better than anger…..yea i know here i go assuming the care taker role again…but…but i do not think bashing each other over a disagreement about meds is an answer to a resolve… take care all….Gypsy…:)
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How long have you been on the 4 mgs and what times do you take it. TIA! ___Carl
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Carl, I have GAD, Panic Attacks, Etc. My doctor has me on 4 Mg Klonopin daily along with 40 Mg paxil and 225 Mg Effexor XR. I take 2 Mg in the morning and 2 Mg in the afternoon. However I have a high tolerance to meds in general. My advice to you is to get to the doctor and see if he /she can get you on an Anti Depressant that works better for anxiety. For me, paxil did the trick with little side effects. The trouble with Klonopin is that it is a benzo and you will develop a resistance to it over time and will need higher doses for the same effect. Also, withdrawal is HELL. — There’s no government like no government. – Bumper sticker, seen in Berkeley, CA I am having considerable stress and anticipatory anxiety at work but can’t afford to quit my job. I have been taking 1 mg of klonopin every morning for almost 8 years now I think. I am not sleeping or eating due to the anticipatory anxiety and job stress. I am going to up the dose to 2 mg. Is this too much? I also lose my voice regularly due to this anxiety. I have been thinking about suicide but I am going to do that. I need to work probably another 15 years. Any advice from anyone would be deeply appreciated. I plan on taking 1 mg in the mornings and one before bedtime. The 2 mg tablets are scored and I simply break them in half. I can handle the loss of appetite, but the sleep deprivation is driving me crazy. __Carl — Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
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Thanks HOAX GYPSY. How much do you take if I may ask, and how long have you been taking it? How long before going to bed do you take it? ___Carl
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I used to take xanax was..switched to elivil..dosages continued to increase..but did nothing…doc switched me to klonopin low dose..at first i took it during the day…now i am weaned off elivil and i take klonopin it at night….i sleep better…and am managing better …no anger problems here….only side effects are thirst at times and lack of appetite at times…. like i have said before…everyone is differant…differant meds ..affect people in diffrant ways……i fought the klonopin for a while..but now i am glad i decided to take it….i do not have any homicidal thoughts..or anger issues with it…it does knock me out….for a few hours..LOL…of which i no doubt need….everyone is differant…..i suppose….take care…and maybe you guys need to like shake hands and be cool….we all share the same problems…so lets be nice to one another…compassion is better than anger…..yea i know here i go assuming the care taker role again…but…but i do not think bashing each other over a disagreement about meds is an answer to a resolve… take care all….Gypsy…:)
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|| How long have you been on the 4 mgs and what times do you take it. || TIA! || || ___Carl
||| Carl, I have GAD, Panic Attacks, Etc. My doctor has me on 4 Mg ||| Klonopin daily along with 40 Mg paxil and 225 Mg Effexor XR. I take ||| 2 Mg in the morning and 2 Mg in the afternoon. However I have a ||| high tolerance to meds in general. My advice to you is to get to ||| the doctor and see if he /she can get you on an Anti Depressant ||| that works better for anxiety. For me, paxil did the trick with ||| little side effects. The trouble with Klonopin is that it is a ||| benzo and you will develop a resistance to it over time and will ||| need higher doses for the same effect. Also, withdrawal is HELL. ||| ||| — ||| ||| There’s no government like no government. – Bumper sticker, seen in ||| Berkeley, CA ||| |||
|||| I am having considerable stress and anticipatory anxiety at work |||| but can’t afford to quit my job. I have been taking 1 mg of |||| klonopin every morning for almost 8 years now I think. I am not |||| sleeping or eating due to the anticipatory anxiety and job stress. |||| I am going to up the dose to 2 mg. Is this too much? I also lose |||| my voice regularly due to this anxiety. I have been thinking about |||| suicide but I am going to do that. |||| I need to work probably another 15 years. Any advice from anyone |||| would be deeply appreciated. I plan on taking 1 mg in the mornings |||| and one before bedtime. The 2 mg tablets are scored and I simply |||| break them in half. I can handle the loss of appetite, but the |||| sleep deprivation is driving me crazy. |||| |||| __Carl |||| |||| ||| ||| ||| — ||| Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. ||| Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com). — I take 2 Mg about 6 am and the other 2 at about 4 pm. Your doctor can also give you something to help you sleep that’s not addictive. I’ve had to do that before. Also used to take Remeron. It’s an anti depressant you take at night and it really helps you sleep. Some people have gained weight on it though. Is life worth living? That depends on the liver. — Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
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Hi Carl, YW i have been on klonopin for almost three months now, i take 0.05 mgs the doc is monitoring my progress and like all meds he warned me..the dosage could increase as time goes along and through the years i may be switched to other meds…..i take it about two hours before bedtime…with food…..my doc told me that this is a lifetime thing for me dispite therapy and other helpful methods…that i apply including anger managment and stress relief applications My case is both emotional and physical in that neither of my adrenal glands function properly i now have a small tumor on the backside of my left adrenal gland which is monitored every six months( i could lose that adrenal gland in the future right now the tumor is benign) and also due to cancer in 85 i only have one overy..so i do not produce normal hormone levels either so i also take premprose HRT to balance out the hormones……i also pump out very high and dangerous levels of cortosone and adrenalin..and my b/p fluctuates…i am pre hypertensive…i have already had b/p’s of 180/110 during PA"S one of my warnings that i am in a pa is my auras and my migraines…followed by excessive sweating…dizzyness, chest pain…..and i have chronic insomnia I also have OCB….right now wih the klonopin i can actually let the dishes sit in the sink till morning…the vacuming can wait….i do not freak out over small shit and the migraines are less intense…my b/p has improved…elivil used to help…but like i said with all meds..a resistance level builds…i was up to 200 mgs a day…it didn’t do crap for me…it happened with the xanax years back….also…i think at least with me and some frends i have with panic disorders….ya have to remain under constant care and maintenance….to keep life managable…ya know…some people think…ok i got the pills and the therapy and all is well….but through the years i have learned this is a life long journey… A battle rages on within….with me i will do anything neccessary to remain functional…and maintain a life that is productive and managable….i have a wonderful support system…my doc’s…family, friends, they all help to keep me in check….it took years for me to admit and ask for help…and to accept help and support ..as for the meds..all meds have some side affects….i always tell my doc about them…when they come up….and i go to regular every 4 to 6 month check ups and maintenance to discuss my progress and or problems…they also do six month blood work on me to check levels and all…i always take a close friend or family member with so they can offer their observations and imput…sometimes we do not always see a change…like those close to us can….ya know i am 47 years old…happiy married for the third time..i have a beautiful and happily married daughter…who is studying psychology she has an associates degree and is working on her masters, and two beautiful grandchildren….so i have a real determination to manage my disorder..not just for me..but for them… also…i do not want to lose myself..or them…my motto in life is…"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take….but by the moments that take our breath away " i do not want to ever waste or miss any of those moments…good ,bad, happy or sad…i wake up every day…ready for whatever happens…i also maintain a really good sense of humor concerning my anxiety disorder… My friends have given me shirts that read things like…I am not wired right……or Normal people scare me….LOL…i used to have a really out of control temper..i am an x biker…used to run with a real rough crowd…today…i am a much nicer person it took a lot of work on my part to get to where am today…but i am still under continuous re construction i always like to think of myself as an old house under continous repairs and remodeling …LOL Nice to meet ya, always look forward to chatting and sharing with all of you, take care, Gypsy…:)
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Carl, I have GAD, Panic Attacks, Etc. My doctor has me on 4 Mg Klonopin daily along with 40 Mg paxil and 225 Mg Effexor XR. I take 2 Mg in the morning and 2 Mg in the afternoon. However I have a high tolerance to meds in general. My advice to you is to get to the doctor and see if he /she can get you on an Anti Depressant that works better for anxiety. For me, paxil did the trick with little side effects. The trouble with Klonopin is that it is a benzo and you will develop a resistance to it over time and will need higher doses for the same effect. Also, withdrawal is HELL. — There’s no government like no government. – Bumper sticker, seen in Berkeley, CA
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am having considerable stress and anticipatory anxiety at work but can’t afford to quit my job. I have been taking 1 mg of klonopin every morning for almost 8 years now I think. I am not sleeping or eating due to the anticipatory anxiety and job stress. I am going to up the dose to 2 mg. Is this too much? I also lose my voice regularly due to this anxiety. I have been thinking about suicide but I am going to do that. I need to work probably another 15 years. Any advice from anyone would be deeply appreciated. I plan on taking 1 mg in the mornings and one before bedtime. The 2 mg tablets are scored and I simply break them in half. I can handle the loss of appetite, but the sleep deprivation is driving me crazy. __Carl
— Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
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I’ve never had a problem with withdrawal from an SSRI. Took paxil for a long time and quit, prozac, same thing. Just trying to give advise. No reason to bash. Klonopin withdrawal is much worse in my opinion. Bash on "Preston" — A book is like a garden carried in the pocket. – arab proverb – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Carl, I have GAD, Panic Attacks, Etc. My doctor has me on 4 Mg Klonopin daily along with 40 Mg paxil and 225 Mg Effexor XR. I take 2 Mg in the morning and 2 Mg in the afternoon. However I have a high tolerance to meds in general. My advice to you is to get to the doctor and see if he /she can get you on an Anti Depressant that works better for anxiety. For me, paxil did the trick with little side effects. The trouble with Klonopin is that it is a benzo and you will develop a resistance to it over time and will need higher doses for the same effect. Also, withdrawal is HELL. Here we go again. And withdrawl from an SSRI is a joyride? Preston
— Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
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By the way, Preston, one of the side effects of Klonopin is excessive RAGE. I’d love to unleash some of that on you. — For my part, I consider that it will be found much better by all parties to leave the past to history, especially as I propose to write that history myself. – Sir Winston Leonard Spencer Churchill – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Carl, I have GAD, Panic Attacks, Etc. My doctor has me on 4 Mg Klonopin daily along with 40 Mg paxil and 225 Mg Effexor XR. I take 2 Mg in the morning and 2 Mg in the afternoon. However I have a high tolerance to meds in general. My advice to you is to get to the doctor and see if he /she can get you on an Anti Depressant that works better for anxiety. For me, paxil did the trick with little side effects. The trouble with Klonopin is that it is a benzo and you will develop a resistance to it over time and will need higher doses for the same effect. Also, withdrawal is HELL. Here we go again. And withdrawl from an SSRI is a joyride? Preston
— Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
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By the way, Preston, one of the side effects of Klonopin is excessive RAGE. I’d love to unleash some of that on you. —
Good grief!!! Stop it!
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Ok, Ok, I’m sorry. Just got carried away there for a minute. Didnt mean to offend anyone. Sorry preston. My meds are kicking in. I’m fine. Pete — I feel safe with my feet in the dirt. Ava Gardner By the way, Preston, one of the side effects of Klonopin is excessive RAGE. I’d love to unleash some of that on you. I’ve never experienced that, but apparantly you have. You’re threatening me over the Internet? Are you serious? You’re the kind of person I want to take medical advice from. Preston
— Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
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I am having considerable stress and anticipatory anxiety at work but can’t afford to quit my job. I have been taking 1 mg of klonopin every morning for almost 8 years now I think. I am not sleeping or eating due to the anticipatory anxiety and job stress. I am going to up the dose to 2 mg. Is this too much? I also lose my voice regularly due to this anxiety. I have been thinking about suicide but I am going to do that. I need to work probably another 15 years. Any advice from anyone would be deeply appreciated. I plan on taking 1 mg in the mornings and one before bedtime. The 2 mg tablets are scored and I simply break them in half. I can handle the loss of appetite, but the sleep deprivation is driving me crazy. __Carl
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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am having considerable stress and anticipatory anxiety at work but can’t afford to quit my job. I have been taking 1 mg of klonopin every morning for almost 8 years now I think. I am not sleeping or eating due to the anticipatory anxiety and job stress. I am going to up the dose to 2 mg. Is this too much? I also lose my voice regularly due to this anxiety. I have been thinking about suicide but I am going to do that. I need to work probably another 15 years. Any advice from anyone would be deeply appreciated. I plan on taking 1 mg in the mornings and one before bedtime. The 2 mg tablets are scored and I simply break them in half. I can handle the loss of appetite, but the sleep deprivation is driving me crazy. __Carl
Hey Carl, My doctor recently took me off .5 Xanax and put me on 1.0 Klonopin due to the increased levels of panic I have been experiencing. The Xanax no longer controlled the attacks at all, but the first time I took a Klonopin it pretty much knocked me out! LOL. I can’t imagine taking one daily, although I do have to still take a Xanax when I first wake up. For some reason the anxiety is worse when I first wake up and gradually throughout the day subsides. Crazy to feel anxious about going to a job that I’ve been going to for over 9 years huh? Anyway, what I’m getting to is maybe it’s time for a lifestyle change? A job change? Something for some peace of mind?
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I also felt very unbalanced and clumsy when I first started Klonopin (almost a year ago). I’m not sure if it subsided or if I just accepted it as one of the side effects. Every once in a while I still get a bit off balance, but I don’t worry about it because I know it’s the medication. Since I’ve accepted it, it hasn’t bothered me at all. I don’t know if you’re falling over or anything (I didn’t), if that’s the case, you may want to see the doc again, but if it’s just losing your balance every so often, don’t worry. Michelle
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Hi everyone, I’ve been lurking here for a while now and some of your stories have really hit home. Thanks for all the great advice. I finally broke down and saw a shrink yesterday and was diagnosed agoraphobic. She put me on Klonopin and I experienced immediate results. I even (almost) felt like going to the grocery store! I’ve been virtually housebound for the last six months. Klonopin is my miracle pill of the moment. However, tonight I’m feeling slightly unbalanced and clumsy. If anyone else has experience the same thing, I’d love to hear from you, or any Klonopin users. I’d even like to hear the derogatory comments. Thanks, Maria
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi everyone, I’ve been lurking here for a while now and some of your stories have really hit home. Thanks for all the great advice. I finally broke down and saw a shrink yesterday and was diagnosed agoraphobic. She put me on Klonopin and I experienced immediate results. I even (almost) felt like going to the grocery store! I’ve been virtually housebound for the last six months. Klonopin is my miracle pill of the moment. However, tonight I’m feeling slightly unbalanced and clumsy. If anyone else has experience the same thing, I’d love to hear from you, or any Klonopin users. I’d even like to hear the derogatory comments. Thanks, Maria
Maria, don’t feel that you "brokedown" by going to the shrink. Think of it as a step in the right direction. With help from counseling and meds, you may be off to a better life P.S. Sorry, I have no experience with Klonopin…but i know there are some in this group that do! Carter Fields Northwestern University
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I finally broke down and saw a shrink yesterday and was diagnosed agoraphobic. She put me on Klonopin and I experienced immediate results. I even (almost) felt like going to the grocery store! I’ve been virtually housebound for the last six months. Klonopin is my miracle pill of the moment. However, tonight I’m feeling slightly unbalanced and clumsy.
Hi Maria – that’s not "breaking down" – that’s being wise and having the good sense to seek help when you need it. I wish I’d done it years ago I’m glad to hear that Klonopin is helping and I wouldn’t worry about feeling a little clumsy, not when you have just started on a benzodiazepine. They *can* make one a bit uncoordinated at times. This will almost certainly pass in a few days and, if it doesn’t have a talk to your pshrink who might adjust the dose. Hope that helps — Gary Cooper
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I finally broke down and saw a shrink yesterday and was diagnosed agoraphobic. She put me on Klonopin and I experienced immediate results. I even (almost) felt like going to the grocery store! I’ve been virtually housebound for the last six months. Klonopin is my miracle pill of the moment. However, tonight I’m feeling slightly unbalanced and clumsy.
Hi! You have been very lucky with your choice of teraphist! Klonopin (they go under the name Rivotril here in Norway) is by my experience the best medication for agoraphobia. I have been using them for 3 years now, and haven’t had any side effects at all. For me they work much better than all other medication I’ve tried. However, you should be very careful about car driving before you get used to your new medicine, as Klonopin may degrade your ability to concetrate properly the first two weeks or so. Now you should enter an exposure program as soon as possible to get your life back to normal. Medical treatment alone is not as effective for agoraphobia as it is for a panic disorder. Good luck with your "new life" ! — Kjell Raastad http://home.sn.no/~kjellr/photo.html
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You have been very lucky with your choice of teraphist! Klonopin (they go under the name Rivotril here in Norway) is by my experience the best medication for agoraphobia. I have been using them for 3 years now, and haven’t had any side effects at all. For me they work much better than all other medication I’ve tried. However, you should be very careful about car driving before you get used to your new medicine, as Klonopin may degrade your ability to concetrate properly the first two weeks or so. Now you should enter an exposure program as soon as possible to get your life back to normal. Medical treatment alone is not as effective for agoraphobia as it is for a panic disorder. Good luck with your "new life" !
Kjell – may I just jump in here and welcome you to ASAP? I *think* you are the first poster we’ve had from Norway, which is good news for the rest of us as it shows that the group is propagating well Thanks for joining us and posting — Gary Cooper
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Vicki, My Klonopin script is for me to take .5 mg 4x/day. It has done very well for me! As far as addicitive goes, it is more of a physical dependence than an addiction. In other words, I am not on me knees begging for my next dose. I hope that makes sense. There are others here who can better define addiction vs. dependence for you. Best of Luck and (((((((((HUGS))))))))) Kindest Regards, Katie Anyone have any experience with Klonopin, dosage, frequency of dosage, etc.? My dr. prescribed it to me due to old symptoms of panic came back after switching to Celexa a couple of months ago. I was told only to take it once or twice a week, as it can be addictive. That really doesn’t seem to help that much. I would appreciate any input. Thanks, Vicki
– "A word to the wise ain’t necessary. It’s the stupid who need the advice." —Will Rogers Before you buy.
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Well my dr. gave me a one time prescription of 30 pills to take once a day or as needed. She really didn’t want me taking it more than once or twice a week. I have a job that is unbearable to deal with when I feel anxiety or a panic attack coming on. I’m an office manager for a busy practice. I wonder why dr.s are so scared to give you something that will help you.
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Thanks Ian. I wondered the same thing about perhaps increasing the dosage of Celexa. I had been on Zoloft 100mg. for a year and the side effects were awful, although the anxiety was gone. My dr. suggested going on Celexa, I am now on 40mg. and had been doing fine for a couple of months, up until 1 week or so ago. that’s when I called the dr. and asked about increasing the dosage of the Celexa. She suggested Klonopin, as needed. Not sure that is the answer.
An SSRI like Celexa and a benzo often make a very effective combo. However, I personally would prefer Xanax over Klonopin to take *as needed* because of its much quicker onset of action. Philip
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Thanks Ian. I wondered the same thing about perhaps increasing the dosage of Celexa. I had been on Zoloft 100mg. for a year and the side effects were awful, although the anxiety was gone. My dr. suggested going on Celexa, I am now on 40mg. and had been doing fine for a couple of months, up until 1 week or so ago. that’s when I called the dr. and asked about increasing the dosage of the Celexa. She suggested Klonopin, as needed. Not sure that is the answer.
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Anyone have any experience with Klonopin, dosage, frequency of dosage, etc.? My dr. prescribed it to me due to old symptoms of panic came back after switching to Celexa a couple of months ago. I was told only to take it once or twice a week, as it can be addictive. That really doesn’t seem to help that much. I would appreciate any input. Thanks, Vicki
Hi Vicki, Klonopin is not addictive, but you may become dependent on it. The same applies to the Celexa, or any other antidepressant. There are many other medications you can become dependent on, you can even experience withdrawal symptoms when quitting vitamin C – mostly rebound scurvy (hair and (less often) teeth may fall out in severe cases). Many of those with anxiety disorders have impaired GABA/benzodiazepine function. Benzodiazepine meds like Klonopin make the GABA/benzo system more efficient, returning it to something approaching ‘normality.’ However, this may cause a mild biofeedback reduction in GABA expression to develop. If you then stop taking the benzo suddenly, the GABA/benzo system is even more dysfunctional for a while until it re-adapts to the new circumstances. This causes the things that are collectively known as withdrawal symptoms. Allowing the system to adapt slowly by doing a slow weaning will reduce withdrawal symptoms to easily manageable levels in most cases. Unfortunately, past inappropriate prescribing practises have given the benzos a bad reputation, and scared many doctors off prescribing them. Its a lot easier to blame the med, not the profession. You might find asking your doctor if he every prescribes, benzodiazepines to epileptics (or did in the past), and if so what doses he prescribes, to be very revealing. Most, IME, have no concerns about their epileptic patients taking them in huge doses when compare with those needed to alleviate anxiety/panic. And I bet he won’t be able to give a reasonable explanation for the difference in attitude. Celexa has proven to be an effective medication in the treatment of panic disorder, so I’m concerned that it is apparently triggering attacks in your case. No antidepressant is necessarily any better than another, though one will be for an individual. It is also true that one can be worse for an individual. So perhaps you and your doctor should really be reviewing your continued use of this AD. I can’t see the point of taking medication to overcome the effects of another med. Or perhaps you just need to increase the Celexa dose. Ian
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Anyone have any experience with Klonopin, dosage, frequency of dosage, etc.?
Hi Vicki, I take .25mg of Klonopin twice a day as prescribed by my Dr. That and 20mgs of paxil seem to keep away the anxiety. Lorri
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I have been taking Klonpin for about 2 years now. When taken they way you are told it has worked wonders for me. I don’t have any side effects, I was drowsey when I first started, but now it pretty much has taken care of the problem -Regards, Chris http://members.aol.com/forx4dude/index.html If someone betrays you once, it’s his fault. If he betrays you twice, it’s your fault.
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Thanks for your help, I have only taken a couple. I started to have the old symptoms plus a new one, my left lower eyelid has started twitching and it has gone on for over a week. It drives me crazy and everyone says "What’s up with your eye?" The dr. said that was a symptom of anxiety. She said that the Klonopin will help. I hope no other new ones pop up. I feel that I have had more than I need already. Thanks, Vicki
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Anyone have any experience with Klonopin, dosage, frequency of dosage, etc.? My dr. prescribed it to me due to old symptoms of panic came back after switching to Celexa a couple of months ago. I was told only to take it once or twice a week, as it can be addictive. That really doesn’t seem to help that much. I would appreciate any input. Thanks, Vicki
Hey Vicki, Klonopin has been my savior! I used to take .5 mg three times a day, and that is when I felt my best. I must say that I got highly addicted to it though, and going off of it was hell. Now I only take it as needed. My anxiety is higher than it used to be, but I am afraid to get back on it on a regular dose. I take a few pills a week, only in stressful conditions….and I’m making it. Good luck! Tami
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Anyone have any experience with Klonopin, dosage, frequency of dosage, etc.? My dr. prescribed it to me due to old symptoms of panic came back after switching to Celexa a couple of months ago. I was told only to take it once or twice a week, as it can be addictive. That really doesn’t seem to help that much. I would appreciate any input. Thanks, Vicki
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I also am in need of more info on Klonopin. Possible side effects and degree of help in lowering anxiety panic level would be apprecitated. Also does it help the feelings of unreality…I realize that meds treat diffrent people diffrent but would like a generalized discription of the medication. Thanks. Dallas (Xanman) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Anyone have experience with Klonopin? I was interested in finding out more about if from those who use it – I might be going on it. Thanks. Carter Fields Northwestern University Evanston, IL
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Anyone have experience with Klonopin? I was interested in finding out more about if from those who use it – I might be going on it. Thanks. Carter Fields Northwestern University Evanston, IL
I’ve been on Klonopin, 3-6mg/day for about 6 months and have found it to be very effective for the most. Previoulsy I was on Buspar but it became totally ineffective after about 8 months even and rates of 60mg/day. gp In the beginning the Universe was created. This has made a lot of people very angry and been widely
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Anyone have experience with Klonopin? I was interested in finding out more about if from those who use it – I might be going on it. Thanks. Carter Fields Northwestern University Evanston, IL
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(Carter Fields) writes: Anyone have experience with Klonopin? I was interested in finding out more about if from those who use it – I might be going on it. Thanks. Carter Fields Northwestern University Evanston, IL
Hi Carter, It has worked well for me for approximately the last 8 years. I started with 2 x .5 mg per day, gradually ramping up to 6 x .5 mg per day. That was considered high, but my attacks had become quite disabling. Anyway, it finally stopped the dreaded p.a’s. Then I began to slowly ramp down again, and have been on .5 mg daily maintenance ever since…with the odd extra if I feel I need it. I believe there are quite a number of us on this newsgroup taking Klonopin (or as we Canucks would have it, "Rivotril")–so trust you’ll get some interesting feedback. Best wishes, Jane Duval Vancouver, B.C. —
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Anyway, why should I get off – K is not like X where I had panic every day. long term benzodiazepine use is associated with cognitive decline. —
Good – I’ve always been told I;m too smart for my own good. Squiggles
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Postscript: Lesson to be learned re: some drugs like Klonopin: DO NOT GET OFF YOUR DRUGS – you may end up worse than you were when you got on. But of course, under the law regarding human rights, you are free to do what you like, including jumping off a bridge. My advice: hear both sides, especially the ones with authority. If you want to build an Empire State Building you are better off hiring an architect than a gardener. Squiggles — Facts are not fluffy. - Squiggles
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Postscript: Lesson to be learned re: some drugs like Klonopin: DO NOT GET OFF YOUR DRUGS – you may end up worse than you were when you got on. But of course, under the law regarding human rights, you are free to do what you like, including jumping off a bridge. My advice: hear both sides, especially the ones with authority. If you want to build an Empire State Building you are better off hiring an architect than a gardener. Squiggles You need to taper very slowly.. it is possible to get off Klonopin! At this time two years ago I was taking Topamax
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