Klonopin vs. Xanax: What is the Difference?

Anxiety is a common part of everyday life for most people. People may feel anxious about a test, interview, or future events. In most cases, people can use healthy coping strategies to function, even when they feel anxious.

But some people live with more anxiety than others. People may feel anxious without understanding why. Some people have panic attacks, which can significantly disrupt their lives and limit functioning. Mental health experts may diagnose people with a panic or anxiety disorder.

Millions of people in the United States live with anxiety or panic disorders. Many take prescription medications to manage the symptoms of these disorders.

Klonopin and Xanax are two medications doctors can prescribe to treat anxiety. This article will explore the differences between Klonopin and Xanax. You will also learn about prescription drug abuse and how to find addiction treatment.

Contact the specialists at The Best Treatment to explore our supportive benzodiazepine rehab options. You may also ask questions, verify your insurance, or set up an intake assessment.

What is Klonopin?

Klonopin is the brand name for a drug called clonazepam. Klonopin is a prescription medication. It is a benzodiazepine drug.

Doctors may prescribe Klonopin to help people reduce or manage symptoms of anxiety and panic disorders. Some people also take it to manage seizure disorders.

How Does Klonopin Work?

Klonopin works by increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the brain. GABA is a brain chemical that counteracts the effects of adrenaline. Adrenaline is a brain chemical that is involved in feelings of anxiety or panic.

Doctors believe that people with lower levels of GABA may have higher rates of panic disorders, bipolar disorder, and generalized anxiety. When people take Klonopin, they may have less anxiety. Less anxiety can lead to better functioning and overall well-being.

Side Effects of Klonopin

Klonopin and other benzodiazepines slow down central nervous system (CNS) activity. People may experience less anxiety and fewer panic attacks while taking Klonopin. It is also an effective anti-seizure medication.

Like all medications, Klonopin can cause side effects. Some common side effects of Klonopin include:

• Body aches
• Chills
• Breathing problems
• Dizziness
• Fever
• Headache
• Irritability
• Appetite loss
• Feelings of sadness or discouragement

People who take Klonopin may also experience pleasurable side effects, including:

• Sedation
• Euphoria
• A sense of well-being

These feelings may make people want to increase the dosage they take or take it more often. Misusing Klonopin and other benzodiazepines increases the risk of dependence and addiction.

What is Xanax?

Xanax is the brand name for a drug called alprazolam. Xanax is a prescription benzodiazepine drug. Doctors may prescribe Xanax to help patients treat panic disorders and anxiety.

How Does Xanax Work?

Xanax increases the effects of GABA in the brain. Doctors believe increasing GABA levels may decrease central nervous system (CNS) activity.

Side Effects of Xanax

People may experience side effects when taking Xanax. Some of the most common side effects of Xanax include:

• Shallow or slow breathing
• Seizures
• Feeling lightheaded or faint
• Risk-taking behaviors
• Increased energy
• Agitation
• Double vision
• Racing thoughts
• Decreased need for sleep

People may also experience euphoria. This can make them want to misuse Xanax by taking more of it than they should.

What is the Difference Between Klonopin and Xanax?

Xanax and Klonopin are both prescription medications. They are both benzodiazepines that slow CNS activity. Doctors prescribe Klonopin and Xanax to treat anxiety and panic disorders. However, there are some critical differences between these drugs.

One of the most significant differences between Klonopin and Xanax is their use. People may take Klonopin to treat seizures. Children up to 10 years old may take 0.01 to 0.03 mg of Klonopin per kilogram of body weight to manage seizures.  Doctors do not prescribe Xanax to treat seizures.

Another difference between Klonopin and Xanax is how you take it. Klonopin is available as an oral tablet. People typically take it one to three times per day.

Xanax is available in immediate-release and extended-release tablets. It is also available as a liquid solution for oral use. People may take immediate-release Xanax several times per day. Those using the extended-release formula typically only take it once per day.

Prescription Drug Abuse: An Overview

While Klonopin (clonazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam) have some important differences, they both have the potential for abuse and addiction. Many people believe that prescription drugs are always safe to use, but this is not the case.

People who misuse Xanax or Klonopin may develop a physical dependence on them. They may experience withdrawal symptoms if they try to stop taking them.

Prescription drug abuse can cause severe, long-term health problems. People who develop addiction to prescription drugs like Xanax or Klonopin must seek treatment as soon as possible.

Find Help for Benzodiazepine Addiction Today

If you or someone you love struggles with prescription drug abuse, you are not alone. Reach out to the specialists at The Best Treatment now to explore our comprehensive treatment programs.