Clonazepam

[1949liz]

Hi can anyone give me information on this drug. My doctor has sent me an email saying that the neurologist has suggested this drug for my essential tremor. I have been online and the side-effects are dreadful, has anyone been on this drug and can give me any advice. Many thanks Liz🙏⭐️

[AussieNeil Moderator]

Hi Liz,

As you have learned, clonazepam, brand name: Klonopin is a benzodiazepine. I've found this site to be reputable with regard to drug side effects and also importantly, drug interactions: drugs.com/clonazepam.html Doctors and even pharmacists may not be aware of all that you are taking - which can extend to supplements and in some cases even foods. Also, as we get older, we are more likely to be on more prescribed drugs and our liver and kidneys are less able to tolerate them, which is why it's important to keep your doctor and pharmacist informed. Of particular note with some drugs, including clonazepam, is the correct way to stop taking it, particularly if you've been taking it for some time, so I expect you've seen the warning, "Do not stop using clonazepam without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer."

If your essential tremor is significantly impacting your quality of life, then perhaps clonazepam will greatly improve your ability to live life. Unfortunately, when it comes to whether you will experience any of the listed side effects from any drug, there's no way to know without trying what's prescribed, whether you'll have a better or worse quality of life with the drug overall.

Good on you for learning what you can about clonazepam before trying it.

Neil

[1949liz in reply to AussieNeil]

thanks for the advice and after reading about the side-effects, and since I have not started to take these pills, I have decided that this drug is not for me.I will be unable to drink a cup of tea or even a couple of glasses of wine in the evening. Also I only have one kidney so as much as I want something to control my tremors this pill is not for me. I am so grateful that you have taken the time to reply to me. Take care love, Liz and Shelly🙏⭐️

[Midori]

Your Pharmacist would be the best person to ask, they have to know what their stock is all about, in order to advise.

None of us are medically trained, sorry.

Cheers, Midori