Posted by Glydin on December 21, 2004, at 7:12:07
In reply to Re: Pdoc wants to stop Klonopin: 'short term only', posted by Lucylooo on December 21, 2004, at 2:45:48
> Glydin, how did you find a doctor who was willing to work with you?
~~~I can't take alot of credit for that - I was lucky to find a doc who had expereience with long term benzo use and was willing to engage in intense followup to insure things went "right" for me. K wasn't first line treatment for me and I'm not sure it should be for anyone, but if trials and trials of other meds have failed, benzo's - used in monotherapy or as an addition - can be a very effective and safe treatment for some.
> I would like the clonazapam to last as long as possible but I suppose I should take it as directed (1/2 pill twice a day for a week and then 1/2 pill a day)? It sounds like it works differently than zanax or ativan, do you know?
~~~Taking as directed is the best practice is my opinion. While I believe the mode of action is similar for benzo's, there are difference in brain receptor sites and the like. There are those here with much more knowledge than I on that part of "How this chemical effects the brain". In general, these meds calm the brain's "spin up for action" system. There are differences in dosing and there are benzo conversion charts available on the 'net as well as one offered on this site.
I always try to make clear, benzo aren't for everyone - things can go awry. But, I'm of the opinion the meds themselves are not "bad". There can be inapprioate prescibers, inapproiate consumers, and plain lack of correct information for folks to make informed decisions. And... There's also the assumed information (they're ALWAYS abused and addiction producing), doc liability, and state regulations to contend with. It's not an easy choice in treatment and it is one where one may find themselves having to "prove" correct use - sometimes over and over..
I hope you can work things out.
poster:Glydin
thread:432239
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20041217/msgs/432374.html