Both Xanax (alprazolam) and Klonopin (clonazepam) belong to the group of medications,known as the benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are used to treat insomnia,agitation, panic and anxiety disorders, and these drugs in particularly are themost common benzodiazepines of all.
They work by modulating the brain function through increase ofGABA (gamma amino butyric acid) neurotransmitter effects. As the results, centralnervous system (the brain) gets depressed and these medications work againstthe anxiety, convulsion and euphoria or panic attacks.
What Are They Used For?
Xanax is more often prescribed to treat panic attacks andanxiety problems, and Klonopin is the medication frequently used to treatpanic problems and seizures.
Effects on the Body
The onset and duration of effects of these medications issomewhat different. Xanax is known as the drug that works faster and because ofthat it is used to control serious panic attacks, since it would have a quickrelieving effect on the patient. The effects of Xanax last for 2 to 3 hours. Klonopinhas an extended release effect, but last much longer in the human body. Studieshave shown that the patients treated with Klonopin had the medication for 12hours in their bodies.
Side Effects
Both Xanax and Klonopin have adverse effects. Patientsfrequently complained about: weakness, tiredness, headaches, dizziness and instability.In most cases, patients using Klonopin had lower side effects than Xanaxpatients. Accordingly, patients felt less tired when they were using Klonopin.
However, you should be aware that there is a possibility ofKlonopin accumulation in the body. Consult your doctor about this adverseeffect, since it may seriously affect your health.
Also, there is a high risk of adaptation to the drugs, whenusing benzodiazepines, especially if you are using Xanax. After a long termtherapy the body might adapt to the medication, and stop responding to it.
Addiction
Benzodiazepines are highly addictive, and patients usingthese drugs may become addicts. When comparing these drugs, Klonopin is said tobe less addictive and therefore recommended more frequently for patientssuffering from sporadic anxiety and panic disorders.
Withdrawal symptoms
If you suddenly stop using your medications there might be arisk of developing withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms are highly individualand every patient responds differently, and it might take a while to get backto normal after using benzodiazepines. The reported symptoms included: dry mouth, tachycardia, nausea, vomiting,memory problems, but also some increased anxiety, dizziness, mood swings,seizures and in some cases even hallucinations.
Comparing these medications, doctors agree that Xanax cancause more serious withdrawal effects than Klonopin.
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