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Xanax vs Klonopin

Comparing Klonopin (clonazepam) vs. Xanax (alprazolam) is a frequent query, as both drugs belong to the benzodiazepine class. They are both prescribed for similar conditions, such as:

  • panic disorder
  • anxiety
  • acute mania or psychosis
  • sleep issues
  • social phobia
  • epileptic seizures
  • teeth grinding
  • restless leg syndrome

Other Uses

Xanax is primarily used to alleviate symptoms of panic and anxiety. I is also prescribed for other conditions including fear of situations that can induce helplessness, or embarrassment, chemotherapy-induced nausea, and generalized anxiety disorder.

KlonopinvsXanax
2 blue klonopin tablets

Key Differences

Alprazolam is absorbed more quickly by the body than Klonopin. Peak concentrations of clonazepam in the brain occur about one to four hours after a dose, whereas peak concentrations of Xanax occur within one to two hours. Alprazolam sedative effects last approximately five to six hours, whereas clonazepam can last up to 12 hours. These timings can be influenced by individual factors such as body chemistry, metabolism, and neurotransmitter levels in the brain.

  • Due to its longer presence in the bloodstream and brain, clonazepam does not require as many daily doses as alprazolam.

Addiction

Both carry a risk of addiction, potentially causing users to become psychologically or physically dependent. Those with a history of drug abuse may be more susceptible to such addiction. Studies  suggest that 50 percent of people taking these meds for six months can develop a dependency.

Given the high risk of addiction associated with both benzodiazepines, neither can be considered safer. Overdose is also a risk, as patients may build tolerance and consequently require higher doses to feel their effects. In some cases, users may become so sedated that they lose track of when they last took a dose and consequently take another dose prematurely. Signs of an overdose can include an inability to stay awake, slurred speech, disorientation, and possibly coma.

Withdrawal

Xanax can be more difficult to cease using without experiencing withdrawal symptoms due to its shorter half-life. The term “half-life” refers to the time it takes for 50 percent of the drug to be eliminated from the body. Alprazolam is processed more quickly by the body than Klonopin.

Medications with longer half-lives tend to maintain more consistent levels in the bloodstream, which can reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal signs from either drug can include:

  • insomnia
  • extreme irritability
  • agitation, anxiety
  • panic attacks
  • tremors
  • profuse sweating
  • difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly
  • nausea
  • dry retching
  • abdominal pain
  • palpitations
  • joint or muscle pain
  • blurry vision

Studies

Few studies have directly compared the efficacy of these two meds. One such study found no significant differences in side effects like dizziness, sedation, and drowsiness between the two medicines when prescribed for panic disorder. It also found no difference in their effectiveness.

images courtesy of drugs.com

Read more about abuse here.

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