Klonopin

Another Name
Clonopin (also another name) is generally prescribed for treatment of seizures (those who are suffering from epilepsy) but is sometimes used for those patients not responding to the more common former drugs usually prescribed for bipolar disorder.

No AMA Reason Not to Take Clonopin
There are hardly any medical conditions or other reasons that prevent a patient from taking Klonopin, however, it is a member of the class of drugs called "benzodiazepines," which includes Valium, Librium, and Xanax. If you abuse alcohol the chances are high you will abuse this medication as well (a very dangerous combination). So it is always a good idea to let your doctor know if you enjoy a little alcohol now and then before taking clonazepam.

Unlike Lithium Tegretol Depakene, Klonopin may have some immediate effects in calming your manic stage. For long term prevention of further highs and lows its effectiveness is still under study, but should help you almost immediately, according to The Essential Guide to Psychiatric Drugs.

However There Are SERIOUS Side Effects!
But as with all drugs there are usually side effects. Sometimes not too serious side effects, other times VERY SERIOUS side effects. The main side effect is drowsiness, which usually subsides after a week or two. Like other benzodiazepines, a withdrawal syndrome is experienced when this particular psychiatric drug is stopped. That's because this drug is known to be addictive or using the politically correct term - habit forming.

When withdrawing from Klonopin symptoms include anxiety, insomnia, irritability (who needs any more of that) and sometimes unusual sensory events like ringing in the ears or distorted vision. So do not stop suddenly but rather withdraw slowly when you choose to do so.

You may want to consider these side effects before going on this drug for bipolar disorder. Klonopin has been reported to cause depression (aren't we already fighting depression as a bipolar symptom), which obviously complicates your situation as a bipolar patient whose goal is to prevent depression! And as a result your doctor is likely to prescribe another dose of psychiatric drugs to prevent this side effect of depression.

Other mild side effects may be more likely to occur such as drowsiness, dizziness, increased salivation, poor coordination, nervousness, depression and constipation.

Other possible side effects include:

*an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, closing of the throat, swelling of the lips, face or tongue or if you experience hives;
*worsening seizures;
*yellowing of the eyes or skin (this means you have serious liver poisoning going on)
*hallucinations or severe confusion;
*blurred vision

*The above are all signs of you being poisoned so get help fast!!!

However Klonopin, a drug primarily to treat epilepsy, may work for you if Lithium, Tegretol or Depakene, for some reason didn't work. It usually is the fourth drug tried and if it works, your doctor generally is in no hurry to stop something that finally works. According to The Essential Guide to Psychiatric Drugs, there is no long term side effects and most patients do not mind staying on it.

Things you should avoid while taking Klonopin

*Driving, operating machinery of any kind or performing other hazardous activities
*Drinking alcohol while on this drug for it may increase your risk of having a seizure
*use with other antidepressants such as; alcohol, sedatives, seizure medicines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, muscle relaxants, and antihistamines.

No specific tests are required for initial usage of this drug, however the manufacturer recommends "periodic liver and blood cell tests for patients who remain on Klonopin for long periods. Remember, my story about when I was allergic to lithium the psychiatrist, without further examination, prescribed Tegretol?

Be sure to ask your doctor lots of questions before you take any drug. Inform him if you are on any other drugs, drink alcohol or caffeine, or if you experience any uneasiness about taking drugs. There may be natural alternatives for you that can redirect your neurotransmitters back to the right path for you.

Bon Voyage,

Dr. Cares™

Catherine Sinclair, PhD., uses the trade name Dr. Cares™. She is a licensed pastoral counselor. The information contained in this website is not to be taken as a substitute for professional advice from your qualified medical "practitioner." The author of this website is not an M.D. and does not purport to prescribe or diagnose any mental or health condition.

The author of this website is not an M.D. and therefore must post this required FDA disclaimer. None of the statements, self testing, nor recommended alternatives to overcoming bipolar symptoms have been evaluated by the FDA.

Therefore, the tested and proven experiences, testimonies, supplements and alternative and natural therapies are for informational purposes only and does not purport to prescribe, diagnose or cure any mental or physical condition.

Though as a licensed counselor she does advise her clients to be informed and involved in the recovery of their physical, spiritual and mental health. The above information has transformed many lives and the same can happen for you, but you alone are responsible for the decisions you make concerning all aspects of your health.

Klonopin to Bipolar Medications

Klonopin to No More Bipolar Disorder