Posted by NealMcCoy on March 1, 2005, at 3:27:21
In reply to Re: Going Off Klonopin » offsleepmeds, posted by Glydin on February 28, 2005, at 22:13:49
Klonopin and other benzos bind to the gaba receptors. The neurotransmiter GABA is the bodies natural tranqueliser and benzodiazipines potentiate the effects of gaba to the receptors.
The reason that benzo's are addictive is that they eventually take over the role of gaba. Over time, the gaba receptors become used to the benzo and no longer attract gaba. When the benzo is discontinued, the nervous system is in a state of excitability because the bodies natural calming system is not working.
That's why it is best to slowly discontinue the benzo by tapering, therefore allowing the receptors to slowly adjust and attract their own gaba.
poster:NealMcCoy
thread:464665
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/wdrawl/20050228/msgs/464756.html