Klonopin vs Ativan
These days, it is definitely a good thing, that whenever there is a medication that you are recommended to take, you can always look up additional information on that medication. Here, we will take a look at the key differences between two drugs: Klonopin and Ativan.
The one thing that these two have in common, is that they are both under the Benzodiazepine category ‘“ which is a psychoactive drug resulting in sedation, sleep-inducting, hypnotic, anticonvulsant and muscle relaxant effects.
Under Benzodiazepine, there are two types of drugs which are used to treat anxiety-related problems. The first one is Klonopin, or Clonazepam. In the United States, it is marketed by the drug manufacturing company, Roche. Aside from anxiety and panic disorders, Klonopin is also prescribed to treat insomnia and epilepsy.
The second type is Ativan, or Lorazepam. Ativan is the more well-known commercial name for this Benzodiazepine drug, which is used to treat chronic anxiety and insomnia. When compared to all the other Benzodiazepine drugs, Ativan is considered to be the most addictive ‘“ which is why the drug should only be administered under the close observation of a physician.
Although Ativan is prescribed to treat anxiety-related problems, it has adverse effects on a person, like increased hostility, aggression and suicidal emotions. It can even have amnesic effects.
So what’s the difference with the way that these two drugs work? With both Klonopin and Ativan, its Clonazepam content affects chemicals in the brain which may have become unbalanced, and cause anxiety. The most common use of Klonopin is for seizure disorders and panic disorders, while Ativan is mostly used for anxiety disorders. To realize its full effects, Klonopin is usually taken in two or three doses everyday, while Ativan needs to be taken three to four times a day.
Just as it is when taking any type of medication, it is best to follow your doctor’s order to the letter, when using either Ativan or Klonopin. Either of these may result in an over dosage, addiction, or can even be fatal when taken the wrong way.
Summary:
1. Klonopin is used to treat seizure and panic disorders, while Ativan is mostly used for the treatment of anxiety disorders.
2. As medications, Klonopin has a short-term effect, while Ativan has a medium-range effect.
3. Klonopin has anti-depressant effects, while Ativan produces euphoric effects.
4. Klonopin is usually taken in two or three doses everyday, while Ativan needs to be taken three to four times a day.