About 19% of adults in the United States live with an anxiety disorder. While anxiety is part of everyday life for most, some people struggle with anxiety that overwhelms their ability to cope. When anxiety is overwhelming, it can keep people from living full, healthy lives or functioning well in daily life.

Many people take prescription medications to reduce the symptoms of an anxiety disorder. Some of the medications people take to manage anxiety have the potential for abuse and addiction.

This article will explore the differences between Klonopin and Xanax. These drugs are two of the most commonly prescribed anxiety medications. You will learn:

If you or someone in your life struggles with prescription drug addiction, you are not alone. Contact First Step Behavioral Health specialists to explore our treatment and recovery support programs. Reach out to find the right level of care, verify your insurance, or schedule an appointment.

What is Klonopin?

Klonopin is the brand name for a prescription medication called clonazepam. It belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines.

Doctors may prescribe benzodiazepines like Klonopin to treat anxiety and panic disorders. People may also take it to manage a seizure disorder.

Klonopin works by increasing the amount of a brain chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA slows central nervous system (CNS) activity. Taking Klonopin is effective at relieving symptoms of anxiety and works as an anti-seizure drug.

The Effects and Risks of Klonopin Abuse

People may take Klonopin to reduce panic attacks or treat anxiety disorders. However, some people like the way they feel while taking Klonopin. They may experience pleasurable side effects, including:

People may begin to abuse Klonopin by:

Klonopin abuse can cause people to experience unwanted side effects, including:

Misusing Klonipin can increase the risk of dependence and addiction.

What is Xanax?

Xanax is the brand name for a prescription drug called alprazolam. Like Klonopin, it is also a benzodiazepine. Doctors may prescribe Xanax to treat panic disorders and anxiety.

Xanax works by enhancing the effects of GABA. This can reduce CNS activity and lead to feelings of relaxation and calm.

The Effects and Risks of Xanax Abuse

Xanax is a benzodiazepine. Like other benzodiazepines, it has an increased risk of abuse and addiction. People may like some of the pleasurable effects of Xanax, which may include:

These pleasurable, common side effects can make people want to take Xanax differently than prescribed. They may take more of it, take it more often, or take it without a prescription. Misusing Xanax may cause unwanted side effects, including:

Misusing Xanax may also lead to an increased risk of dependence and addiction.

What is the Difference Between Klonopin and Xanax?

Klonopin (clonazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam) are both benzodiazepines used to treat mental health conditions. People may use Klonopin or Xanax to manage anxiety disorders or reduce panic attacks. Klonopin and Xanax work in a similar way by reducing central nervous system (CNS) activity.

However, there are some crucial differences between these medications. Here is an overview of some of the most significant differences between Klonopin and Xanax.

Purpose

One of the most critical differences between Xanax and Klonopin is their purpose. While both can be used to treat anxiety and panic, only Klonopin is used to treat seizures. Doctors may prescribe Klonopin for children up to 10 years old to manage seizures.

Method of use

People typically use Klonopin and Xanax differently. Klonopin is available in an oral tablet, which people may take one to three times daily. Xanax is available in immediate and extended-release tablets. It is also available as an oral liquid solution.

Half-life and duration

The primary difference between Klonopin and Xanax is their half-life and duration of effects. Klonopin is a longer-acting benzodiazepine, with effects lasting between 6 to 12 hours. It’s often prescribed for managing generalized anxiety or preventing panic attacks over a longer period. Xanax has a shorter duration, typically lasting 4 to 6 hours, making it useful for quickly relieving acute anxiety or panic attacks.

Do I Need Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment?

Prescription drug abuse can cause both short and long-term harm to your mental and physical health. It is essential to watch for signs of prescription drug abuse, which may include:

If you or someone you love struggle with prescription medication abuse or addiction, seek treatment as soon as you recognize a problem.

Find Treatment Now

Benzodiazepine addiction can be hard on your mental and physical health. It can even turn into a life-threatening problem. Find the effective, compassionate treatment you need at First Step Behavioral Health. Contact our intake team to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

References:

  1. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Anxiety Disorders
  2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Klonopin tablets
  3. National Institute of Health (NIH): Alprazolam
  4. Psychiatry Online: Benzodiazepine Use and Misuse Among Adults in the United States
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