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Hi, I Have A Question About A Medication. I Have

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Posted on Tue, 12 Nov 2019
Question: Hi, I have a question about a medication. I have been taking 1 mg of klonopin as needed, usually about once a month or less. Is this safe to do or am I in danger of running into some withdrawal issues? I have no desire what so ever to take it more than this. Only take it when my anxiety gets really bad which luckily it doesnt too often. Thanks!
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Antoneta Zotaj (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
If you use Klonopin once a month there is no risk of withdrawal issues

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to "Ask a Doctor" service,

I carefully read your query and understand your concern.

Klonopin contains a drug that is in the class of medications called benzodiazepines, which are known for the risk of dependence and addiction and related withdrawal symptoms.
This risk is more likely when the drug is used regularly, such as on a daily basis.
In your case, if you use it only once a month, it is unlikely you will develop an addiction to the drug, so there is no risk of withdrawal either.

On the other hand, please be aware that if anxiety becomes worse, it is not safe to increase the use of Klonipin. In this case, you should talk to your doctor and if needed consider using other drugs that are safer for the long term treatment of anxiety (SSRI drugs such as sertraline or citalopram).

I hope this answers your query.
I remain at your disposal for further medical assistance.

Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj
General and Family Physician



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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Antoneta Zotaj

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 4435 Questions

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Hi, I Have A Question About A Medication. I Have

Brief Answer: If you use Klonopin once a month there is no risk of withdrawal issues Detailed Answer: Hello and welcome to "Ask a Doctor" service, I carefully read your query and understand your concern. Klonopin contains a drug that is in the class of medications called benzodiazepines, which are known for the risk of dependence and addiction and related withdrawal symptoms. This risk is more likely when the drug is used regularly, such as on a daily basis. In your case, if you use it only once a month, it is unlikely you will develop an addiction to the drug, so there is no risk of withdrawal either. On the other hand, please be aware that if anxiety becomes worse, it is not safe to increase the use of Klonipin. In this case, you should talk to your doctor and if needed consider using other drugs that are safer for the long term treatment of anxiety (SSRI drugs such as sertraline or citalopram). I hope this answers your query. I remain at your disposal for further medical assistance. Regards, Dr. Antoneta Zotaj General and Family Physician