I am 61 and just started clonazapam for GAD. I cannot take SSRIs, can't tolerate side effects. I managed to not need a benzo for 21 years by taking Buspar, but it is not strong enough for my recent problems. I have to be on something lifelong now to keep from relapsing. I am hoping to find members who are my age and need to be on clonazapam for life, as I feel alone in my age group. I do not have panic attacks, just GAD. I hope to live into my 90s and wonder if I can take this at that age? Hope so, I am very healthy otherwise and my mom is 91 and grandma died at 97. I really like the clonazapam and how it makes me feel, if I could just stop worrying about it. I would like only positive feedback as I don't want to add to my anxiety. Thank you for listening.
How many years have you been on Klonopin? Who is the oldest person you know taking Klonopin?
Question posted by iamalady on 22 July 2013
Last updated on 6 June 2024
195 Answers Page 2
"A study of 50 patients found that, after several years of chronic benzodiazepine use, a large portion of patients developed health problems including agoraphobia, irritable bowel syndrome, paraesthesiae, increasing anxiety, and panic attacks."
Your doctor is spot on with their opinion.
"The long-term use of benzodiazepines may have a similar effect on the brain as alcohol, and is also implicated in depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), mania, psychosis, sleep disorders, sexual dysfunction, delirium, and neurocognitive disorders.[35][36] 37] As with alcohol, the effects of benzodiazepine on neurochemistry, such as decreased levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, are believed to be responsible for their effects on mood and anxiety.[38][39][40][41][42][43] Additionally, benzodiazepines can indirectly cause or worsen other psychiatric symptoms (e.g., mood, anxiety, psychosis, irritability) by worsening sleep (i.e., benzodiazepine-induced sleep disorder). These effects are paradoxical to the use of benzodiazepines, both clinically and non-medically, in management of mental health conditions"
"For example, there is believed to be a link between the long-term use of benzodiazepines and the development of Alzheimer’s disease. The link is so strong that some studies have found those who have taken benzodiazepines for more than six months have an 84% increased risk for the development of Alzheimer’s disease."
"Certain parts of the brain that may be damaged by benzodiazepine abuse include areas responsible for motor coordination and memory. Those who take benzodiazepines for long periods of time may even begin to experience memory loss. Benzodiazepine use is also associated with overall cognitive decline."
"One study further showed that the risk of dying is doubled in patients prescribed BZD compared with controls [47]."
"Using benzodiazepines on a regular basis can lead to significant health problems, including: impaired thinking or memory loss. anxiety and depression. irritability, paranoia and aggression."
"The risks of the benzodiazepines are well-documented and comprise psychological and physical effects. Among the former are subjective sedation, paradoxical release of anxiety and/or hostility, psychomotor impairment, memory disruption, and risks of accidents. Physical effects include vertigo, dysarthria, ataxia with falls, especially in the elderly. Dependence can supervene on long-term use, occasionally with dose escalation. The benzodiazepines are now recognised as major drugs of abuse and addiction. Other drug and non-drug therapies are available and have a superior risk benefit ratio in long-term use. It is concluded that benzodiazepines should be reserved for short-term use--up to 4 weeks--and in conservative dosage."
"As mentioned before, benzodiazepines are not meant to be used for long periods of time. By using benzodiazepines for an extended time, there is an increased risk of the development of certain health conditions. The amount of time considered “long-term” in regard to benzodiazepine abuse is around three to six months."
"In fact, researchers found that the addictive power of benzos was similar to that of opioids, cannabinoids, and GHB—all substances with exceptionally strong addictive qualities. They believe that as benzos accumulate in the body, they actually alter the structure and function of certain receptors in the brain that make them more susceptible to excitable surges from other neurotransmitters, and further increase and intensify dopamine rushes.2 All of these chemical actions add up to a high many people do not wish to give up, and the progression from use to abuse to addiction can occur shockingly quickly. On average, tolerance can develop after just 6 months of use, though it is possible to become physically dependent sooner. It’s estimated that at least 44% of users eventually become dependent on benzos.3"
"In fact, researchers found that the addictive power of benzos was similar to that of opioids, cannabinoids, and GHB—all substances with exceptionally strong addictive qualities. They believe that as benzos accumulate in the body, they actually alter the structure and function of certain receptors in the brain that make them more susceptible to excitable surges from other neurotransmitters, and further increase and intensify dopamine rushes.2 All of these chemical actions add up to a high many people do not wish to give up, and the progression from use to abuse to addiction can occur shockingly quickly. On average, tolerance can develop after just 6 months of use, though it is possible to become physically dependent sooner. It’s estimated that at least 44% of users eventually become dependent on benzos.3"
Do you have anxiety? Have you tried these or are you just spouting a load of facts without experience of them.
Do you have anxiety? Have you tried these or are you just spouting a load of facts without experience of them.
Not much of an answer but concern. I am 57 years old. I have been on Clonazepam for 30 years. Dose has decreased to 3mg. I take 1.5mg in the morning and the same at bedtime. My new psychiatrist wants to take me off. He says it causes more anxiety. Has anyone experienced more anxiety after this long of usage?
I am 55 and been on klonopin for over 25 yrs. I am in the same boat as you. I have been experiencing more anxiety now then years ago. I take 2mg 1am 1 at 6pm. I am scared to death about all the withdrawal from being on it so long. I just wish I could be normal and had Doctors who really cared about me and what the long term effects will be.
I don't know that I've experienced more anxiety. I've gotten up to 4mg. twice per day and that was many years ago. I'm currently on 0.5mg. 3 times per day. But I can tell you I'm 57 and for the last 5 years, my short term memory is declining, like I can't remember names of aquaintences, and almost everytime I leave a room to get something in another room, I forget what it was by the time I get there . But I've also went through menopause and did not have to take hormones, and that alone can cause it too. Hope this helps you and/or someone else!
TO CLARIFY: I've been prescribed as much as 4mg PER DAY, not 4 mg twice per day!
TO CLARIFY: I've been prescribed as much as 4mg PER DAY, not 4 mg twice per day!
No. I have remained the same after 25 years on it. Never have felt the need to take more.
No. I have remained the same after 25 years on it. Never have felt the need to take more.
No. I have remained the same after 25 years on it. Never have felt the need to take more.
Iamalady... I'm 72 and have been on Klonopin only 3 months for GAD. Previously on Xanax for 28 years. Only switched off Xanax because the manufacturer sold co. To another and they quit making mine. Alternative manufacturers were not making a quality product and Xanax not working so Doc switched me to Klonopin. Klonopin and Xanax are the same drug class for GAD. I'll be on drug for the rest of my life. Hopefully in the 90's also.
Leslie1080
I’m glad you have a doctor that works with you and is not afraid to help you keep taking what works.
My doctor believes in prescribing benzodiazepines for those patients where nothing else works also. Let’s beat the odds on our age goals. We can do it… ;-)
Klonopin has literally saved my life. I’ve been on it over 20 years and haven’t had to raise my dose. I haven’t had any deficits of any kind while being on this medication. I wish doctors/people would stop giving it such a bad stigma. If used correctly and as directed, it’s a wonderful medication which has helped me with getting my life back to normal and if that means having to stay on it for the foreseeable future then so be it.
It's primarily the abusers, recreational users , and drug-seekers that have caused benzodiazepines to get a bad name, as well it should. Only the opioid crisis surpasses the benzo crisis in numbers. Then there are the long term side effects. Also, even people who have taken it for years could have severe withdrawals (and long term side effects that they might not even be aware of) if they had to stop the drug for some reason.
Of course, not everyone will have them but what about the people that do?
Srichey
That’s wonderful to hear!
So many worry about taking it and your post really helps calm one’s mind especially if it is helping them and they want to continue on it. There are many who find the right dose and never have to raise it. It’s a myth that everyone on Klonopin will have to keep raising it, some might, but it’s just another scare tactic to take it away from those who really need it and do well on it. Thanks for posting.
I'm 58 years old and I've taken the same 2 mg. of Clonazepam (generic brand) at bedtime for anxiety for 26 years. I have never had the need to increase the dose and since my prescription is written for two 1 mg. tablets, I will take 1 mg. nighty from time to time with no side effects. If I stop taking the medication for three days the side effects kick in (I get the shakes, can't concentrate, sleep and the anxiety returns). I took Zoloft on and off for 20 years and experienced memory loss on SSRIs (important events like my sister's and best friend's wedding. I see myself in the photos and can't remember being there. Who knows what else I can't remember). SSRIs just weren't for me. At age 50 I could no longer take estradiol (Estrace) after 15 years, due to surgical menopause and the Klonopin made the transition easier.
I am tested yearly via blood for possible organ damage and have never had bad results. I guess I will be on 2 mg. of Clonazepam for the rest of my life, unless I have to stop taking it.
Sida
SSRIs are not always the answer and they have withdrawal symptoms as well.
Klonopin is used off label for many things besides anxiety that no other drug helps.
My main reason was tachycardia from surges of adrenaline from my anxiety in my later years. I’m 71 on Klonopin for 10 years now. I was able to come off for four months after tapering and thought all was good until my tachycardia events started up again. Klonopin blocks the anxiety adrenaline surges that cause them and no other drug works. It is frightening to have your heart racing 180 beats per minute and it won’t go back into rhythm. I can’t heal my disturbing late life anxiety, and I surely don’t want tachycardia events ongoing, so I’ll stay on Klonopin. It works and nothing else they tried me on helped at all. Interesting…..
I stopped for four months last year too. Life was miserable. I didn’t have withdrawal symptoms per se but my anxiety came back with a vengeance. My life got smaller and smaller. I am back on and living more of a life now at age 75 1/2
I stopped for four months last year too. Life was miserable. I didn’t have withdrawal symptoms per se but my anxiety came back with a vengeance. My life got smaller and smaller. I am back on and living more of a life now at age 75 1/2
I stopped for four months last year too. Life was miserable. I didn’t have withdrawal symptoms per se but my anxiety came back with a vengeance. My life got smaller and smaller. I am back on and living more of a life now at age 75 1/2
I stopped for four months last year too. Life was miserable. I didn’t have withdrawal symptoms per se but my anxiety came back with a vengeance. My life got smaller and smaller. I am back on and living more of a life now at age 75 1/2
I stopped for four months last year too. Life was miserable. I didn’t have withdrawal symptoms per se but my anxiety came back with a vengeance. My life got smaller and smaller. I am back on and living more of a life now at age 75 1/2
I stopped for four months last year too. Life was miserable. I didn’t have withdrawal symptoms per se but my anxiety came back with a vengeance. My life got smaller and smaller. I am back on and living more of a life now at age 75 1/2
I stopped for four months last year too. Life was miserable. I didn’t have withdrawal symptoms per se but my anxiety came back with a vengeance. My life got smaller and smaller. I am back on and living more of a life now at age 75 1/2
"Is It Ok To Take Klonopin Every Day?
Klonopin may be prescribed to take daily. However, it should not be used for long periods and is usually not longer than two weeks.
Prolonged use of Klonopin can put an individual at risk of numerous adverse effects."
"Effects of long-term benzodiazepine use may include disinhibition, impaired concentration and memory, depression,[19][20] as well as sexual dysfunction.[6][21] The long-term effects of benzodiazepines may differ from the adverse effects seen after acute administration of benzodiazepines.[22] "
"Long-term benzodiazepine use can lead to a generalized impairment of cognition, including sustained attention, verbal learning and memory and psychomotor, visuo-motor and visuo-conceptual abilities.[25][26]"
"The long-term use of benzodiazepines may have a similar effect on the brain as alcohol, and is also implicated in actually causing depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), mania, psychosis, sleep disorders, sexual dysfunction, delirium, and neurocognitive disorders.[35][36] "
"Daily users of benzodiazepines are also at a higher risk of experiencing psychotic symptomatology such as delusions and hallucinations.[50] A study found that patients treated with benzodiazepines[40] "
"People who used high doses of benzodiazepines long term have shown enlarged cerebrospinal fluid spaces with associated cerebral atrophy. Cerebral atrophy reportedly appeared to be dose dependent with low-dose users having less atrophy than higher-dose users.[72]"
Besides addiction or habituation, these are only the beginning of reasons that so many doctors no longer prescribe benzodiazepines.
Will you just stop spouting facts and give some personal feedback?
I have been taking it everyday for over 25 years and have had none of those side effects or issues.
Psychiatrists are now questioning whether the prohibition of Benzodiazepines has deprived a great number of people of effective medications. Why are you here? Your news is very outdated. As you can see many of us are older and have successfully used the meds for many years. Your endless “data” is tiresome.
I'm here as a recovering addict... many hospitalizations during withdrawal... severe long term side effects... unable to hold down employment... constant trips to doctor's office with chronic health problems...
ALL BECAUSE OF BENZODIAZEPINES.
I also volunteer when I can with a rehabilitation facility for benzo addicts. Believe me, the withdrawals are much worse than for heroin addicts.
How that for sharing my personal experience???
I am 57 and recently switched from diazepam to clonazepam for anxiety disorders and panic disorder, 1mg 3x daily. I also take buspirone 5mg 3x daily. I also cannot tolerate SSRIs nor SNRIs. I've not experienced any adverse effects from the clonazepam. Prior to it, I was on diazepam 10mg 3x daily for 10 years, though my initial dose was lower than that for the first several years. I expect to be on clonazepam for life.
Despite what the CDC / FDA whatever say some people will need to be on Clonazepam for the rest of their life. This medicine is a true life changer but getting it prescribed will be the challenge. Psychs, pharms and primary docs are monitored constantly so many refuse to prescribe any benzo to stay out of the governments ire. I have needed the same amount for 15 years now. The first doc did not disclose the dependency issue and left me on them for 5 years and my life was just fine. Doc sold practice and new doc took over and immediately required me to reduce / withdraw from Clon. All sleep stopped. Lost my job for the first time in my life. Now you have to live in constant fear that the doc you find will suddenly decide he wants you to stop taking it. Withdrawal is excruciating and quite literally debilitating for many who use it as prescribe by doc for years.
There are some spurious reports that benzos raise possibility of developing dementia. Good luck my friend. The med itself is not bad. Do not take oppiods or drink heavily and you'll find it to have almost all positive effects.
It’s amazing to me that the Government is so involved with our everyday lives! I have lost all trust in the CDC and the FDA and even my Doctors! Very sad!
I am 65 and have been on clonazepam for 8 years. I was initially prescribed this for my restless leg syndrome. I also have sleep apnea. My dosage is 1mg and I started with 3 pills at bedtime but now I am down to 1 pill at bedtime. I also take pramipexole for my RLS. With all that, I still only manage to sleep straight for 2-3 hours. I came here today because my drs office just put me through almost 2 weeks of withdrawal because of being “uncomfortable” with calling in my new prescription and I am a little angry. So I am here to look for some ways to deal with this issue! Thanks
Clonazepam is an addictive drug that treats epileptic seizures and anxiety. It cannot be dispensed without a prescription. You must visit a psychiatrist.
Wow I don't really know where to start I'm quite shocked to see how low most people's prescriptions are.
I am 34 years old, I have had epilepsy for approximately the last 15 years and I have been on this drug the entire time. It started at 10mg twice a day however within two years it has been raised to 20mg three times a day for a total of 60mg. (Aswell as 400mg of phenytoin/Dilantin) This seems to be quite a high dose. I'm reading many reviews and finding many symptoms I could contribute to this drug. I suppose I am asking for anyone's opinion on this?
I'm so sorry I meant CLOBAZAM. I gave information pertaining to my anticonvulsant NOT clonazepam. My sincere apologies I can't figure out how to remove my answer.
I have taken clonazepam since 2009 77y/o. 1 mg at night with my duloxetine. I'll take this med primarily for PTSD Gad etc.. it has worked fine for me. I have not had any major side effects. although, I'm becoming more irritable. I do see a clinical psychiatrist; I'm going to suggest that I might up the med rather go through withdrawals. hope this helps
I am 59 and I've been taking it for about 15 years. That's when I started having anxiety disorder. Looking back, I've probably had it all of my life but that's when it got bad. I also take other anti anxiety prescriptions with it. In my opinion, I have the least side effects (none) from Klonopin. I take 1 mg. twice a day.
I'm about to turn 52 and spent 5 years on 4.5 mg a day ( 3 x 1.5 mg per day) and I am down to 2 mg a day but struggling due to life circumstances. When I was on 4.5 mg, I was literally on top of my game socially, financially, work, health, etc... That was 12 years ago. When my psych sold the practice to a new doc, he simply told me to "reduce" it as best I could. Like many I had never researched anything about it because I trusted the doc when she said it was totally safe to take long term and back then I could get 6 months refills with no issues at doc or pharmacy. Needless to say I went off too fast and lost my job, my health failed, lost insurance, ended up in hospital wanted to end it all. Now it is 12 years later and I am still trying to pick up the pieces and my primary fear is finding a doc that will agree to prescribe at least 2 mg a day long term.
It clearly seems the DEA and the other powers that be putting in doctor license threatening laws that scare doctors from these meds. Fear of losing my doctor is literally my primary fear at this point as I know the consequences first hand.
I am 60 years old and I have been taking Clonazepam since 1999. I take 4 mg/day: usually 2mg around noon and 2 mg around midnight. There is such a negative stigma associated with taking some specific medications. I am not planning to stop taking clonazepam or decreasing the amount of clonazepam. I have moved a number of times since I began taking clonazepam, and get quite worked up about thinking what if my new doctors will not be in agreement with that! But where I live now is where I intend to stay. My prescribing doctor at the VA is older than me (not by much) but assures me that I will not have any issues as it is well documented the duration of time, the dosage, and the reasons are all well documented in my chart.
@iamalady If you would like a peer of the same age who will be taking this for the long haul, that might be nice!
I always love reading all the new comments!
I'm 52 and have had anxiety most of my life I take only when needed I'm on .5 mg I can't function in life without it but I only take basically when really stressed or have to go in a big social situations
Related topics
buspar, klonopin, anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, clonazepam, side effect
Further information
Similar questions
Search for questions
Still looking for answers? Try searching for what you seek or ask your own question.