Clonazepam

Clonazepam, sold under the brand name Klonopin among others, is a benzodiazepine tranquiliser. It binds to GABAA receptors and increases the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA.

Uses
It is used to treat seizures, anxiety and panic disorders, movement problems such as akathisia, bruxism or restless legs syndrome, muscle problems and some sleep disorders. Several ME/CFS specialists employ clonazepam in their treatment protocols for a variety of uses.

It is usually taken orally and begins having an effect within an hour, lasting between six and twelve hours. It can cause dependence or addiction, and tolerance in long-term use, and withdrawal symptoms are common. Dependence occurs in one-third of people who take clonazepam for longer than four weeks.

ME/CFS
Clonazepam is a medication suggestion in the Canadian Consensus Criteria for ME/CFS to help with insomnia, as a muscle relaxant, and for anxiety.

Low dose benzodiazepines such as clonazepam are suggested for crashes caused by sensory overload (too much sensory input) according to the International Consensus Criteria.

Risks and safety
Clonazepam is highly addictive. Side effects are the same as for other benzodiazepines, and similar to central nervous system depressant drugs; including drowsiness, lack of coordination and ataxia. Clonazepam and doxepin are often used together to improve sleep duration, and work within 1-2hrs.

Clinicans

 * Paul Cheney
 * Charles Lapp
 * David Bell

Costs and availability
Clonazepam is available in most countries with a prescription. It is available as a generic medication and is generally very inexpensive. Availability may be very restricted due to the risk of addiction and substance misuse.

Dosage
For ME/CFS patients a dose of 0.5-2.0 mg per night at bedtime is recommended.

Learn more

 * - Clonazepam
 * Dr. Paul Cheney Discusses The Benefits Of Klonopin
 * Klonopin (Clonazepam) (David Bell)
 * The Best Drug for ME/CFS? The Other Side of Klonopin: A Patient’s Story and A Survey