Is Klonopin Effective And Safe For Treatment Of Anxiety And Depression?

Posted on Mon, 16 Feb 2015

Question: I have major anxiety disorders and depression since I was a child I am now 60, my (new) doctor took me off my klonopin .05 which I take one a day after 25 years , said its not good for me put me on Buspar , I have been anxiety riddled for 2 months staying home, not being me, I am going to see a shrink next week, why did he do this?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Chintan Solanki (32 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
to prevent memory impairment/dementia likely

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thanks for writing to us.

Klonopin is a benzodiazepine drug. After chronic use it can cause effects on brain's cognitive functions. Many studies support finding that long term use of benzodiazepine can cause risk of dementia/Alzheimer's disease.It also can cause cerebral atrophy after long term use.

You are taking klonopin since young age and you are at age of 60 now. Still years to go in your life. Further long term use of klonopin can increase the risk of cognitive problems and dementia in your case.I think this is likely reason that your doctor has stopped this medicine.

Buspirone is good anti anxiety drug as well as paxil. And they do not cause such cognitive problem in long run.

Hope I have answered your query, I will be happy to answer more if there.

regards,
Dr.Chintan Solanki.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Chintan Solanki (22 hours later)

Most MD's dont understand depression including yourself, This was a waste of time and I will see a true professional who understand depression and disassociation to help me, I would rather take that risk of that or live a life of depression,

Answered by Dr. Dr. Chintan Solanki (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
I agree with you

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thanks for follow up.

I understand your concern.

In previous query, you asked the reason for stopping klonopin by your doctor. I have answered the same.I can understand the discomfort of stopping klonopin after 25 years regular use.

You were taking klonopin 0.5 mg daily since 25 years.This daily dose is not high.In this situation if I were your treating doctor, I would like to discuss with you risk of continuing klonopin and advantage of it in controlling your anxiety. If you would like to continue the same after discussion, I would allow you to do so with regular follow up and regular cognitive assessment.

Different doctors have different style of practice and approach vary accordingly.Yes changing consulting doctor may help you.

Hope this answers your concern.

All the best.

Http://bit.ly/drchintansolanki

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj