Posted by Cam W. on March 23, 2000, at 7:17:17
In reply to Re: generic version of klonopin CAM W help, posted by Sherry on March 23, 2000, at 6:17:56
Sherry - Clonazepam (+ active metabolites) does have a longer half life than most benzodiazepines (18 - 72 h), but it is still half that of Diazepam (+ its metabolites). I would bet (but not much - I do not have proof) that many of the people who are having problems withdrawing from Clonazepam are of the faster metabolizing group. Yes, the books state that all benzodiazepines "should" be used short term, but in the real world this luxury is not practical. If we could find a non-addicting (esp psychologically), non-sedating, and effective anxiolytic, no one would be happier than me. But we do have to work with the tools that we are given. Unfortunately, everyone's body is physiologically different and if someone has significant aberations (eg easier downregulated or upregulated GABA receptors or changes in the GABA receptor complex) in the GABA-ergic system, yes, benzodiazepines can cause havoc in the bodys and minds of these people. The only way we can tell if someone is going to have a reaction is to have them take the drug and sometimes unfortunate incidents occur (this is true for any drug). That is the risks of medication. I will never say someone should or shouldn't take a certain medication. I believe that all options must be weighed and an informed choice made by the person taking the drug. I hope I haven't stepped on too many toes and I am sorry a number of people have had bad experiences with Clonazepam, but many, many others haven't. Sincerely - Cam W.
poster:Cam W.
thread:1356
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000321/msgs/27924.html