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Klonopin vs. Xanax

a doctor explains the differences between klonopin and xanax to a patient

Treating mental health disorders is tricky. Many doctors rely on a combination of medication and talk therapies to help their patients find relief from their symptoms. Unfortunately, many mental health medications are addictive and can eventually cause extra problems for people struggling with their mental health. Klonopin and Xanax are two addictive prescriptions that many people end up abusing.

Trying to quit a medication that previously provided so much relief can be difficult. Even after getting sober, many people struggle with feelings of loss or apprehension about the future. At Northpoint Seattle, we know how important it is to learn the skills to succeed in sobriety. Our evidence-based therapies make up the blocks of each anxiety treatment program. Call 888.483.6031 to take the next steps on the road to recovery.

What Are Benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines, or benzos, are drugs that work to slow down the central nervous system. They are some of the most commonly prescribed psychiatric medications to treat anxiety, panic disorders, and insomnia.

While these drugs can be helpful when taken as prescribed, they are also highly addictive. Benzos can lead to tolerance, physical dependence, and addiction when people misuse them.

Klonopin vs. Xanax

Klonopin and Xanax are two of the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines. They are very similar drugs with a few key differences.

Key Features of Klonopin

Klonopin is the brand name for the drug clonazepam. It is a long-acting benzodiazepine that stays in the body for an extended period. Doctors often prescribe Klonopin to treat panic disorders and seizure disorders.

Key Features of Xanax

Xanax is a brand of the drug alprazolam. Being a short-acting benzodiazepine, it leaves the body quickly. Xanax is typically prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders.

The Benzo High of Klonopin vs. Xanax

The high that people experience when abusing either Klonopin or Xanax is similar. Both drugs can cause feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and sedation. However, because Xanax is a short-acting drug, the high does not last as long. This fast action can lead people to misuse the drug more frequently to maintain the high.

When people abuse Klonopin or Xanax, they might take the drugs in higher doses than prescribed. They might also crush and snort or mix the pills with alcohol to intensify the high. These methods of abuse can lead to life-threatening breathing problems.

The Difference Between Klonopin and Xanax Side Effects

While both drugs can cause similar side effects, there are some key differences.

Side Effects of Xanax

Because Xanax is a short-acting drug, it leaves the body quickly. This can cause people to feel hangover-like effects when the drug wears off. These side effects can include:

  • Dizziness
  • Lightheadedness
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Irritability

Side Effects of Klonopin 

Klonopin is a long-acting drug that stays in the body for a long time. This can cause people to feel drowsy and fatigued. It can also cause:

  • Memory problems
  • Impaired motor skills
  • Slurred speech

The Risks of Anxiety Medications

While both Klonopin and Xanax can be helpful for people struggling with anxiety, they are also both addictive drugs. When misused, they can lead to tolerance, physical dependence, and addiction.

Tolerance occurs when a person needs to take more of the drug to achieve the same effects. This effect can happen quickly with benzos because the body becomes used to the drug and starts to build a tolerance.

Physical dependence occurs when a person’s body adapts to the presence of the drug and begins to rely on it to function. Dependence can lead to withdrawal symptoms when the drug is stopped.

Benzo Withdrawals

Withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable and even dangerous. They can include:

  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Irritability
  • Sweating
  • Tremors
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Seizures

Withdrawing from Klonopin or Xanax should always be done under medical supervision to ensure safety.

Xanax and Klonopin Addiction Treatment in Seattle

If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction to Klonopin or Xanax, help is available. At Northpoint Seattle, we offer evidence-based treatment for benzo addiction. Our compassionate and experienced staff will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that meets your unique needs.

We offer multiple levels of care, including:

  • Outpatient program – The outpatient program at Northpoint Seattle is our most basic level of care. Patients will engage in group therapy sessions and receive individual counseling as they learn to overcome their addiction. People who do not need an intense level of care or supervision may be best suited for our outpatient program.
  • Intensive outpatient program (IOP) – For people who need a more intense level of care, our IOP is the perfect solution. Patients will participate in group and individual therapy sessions multiple times per week to learn effective coping skills for managing cravings and triggers.
  • Partial hospitalization program (PHP) – The PHP is our most intensive level of care. Patients will receive a few hours of treatment per day while still being able to return home in the evening. This program is ideal for people who are looking for a higher level of structure and accountability during recovery.
  • Aftercare – Aftercare is an important part of any addiction treatment plan and Northpoint Seattle has a variety of aftercare services to ensure patients have the support they need for long-term recovery.

Contact us today by calling 888.483.6031 or filling out our online form to learn more about our program and how we can help you start on the path to recovery.