Alternative for Clonazepam

 Clonazepam (Klonopin®) is a medication often prescribed for treating some forms of anxiety disorders and various types of epileptic seizures. Most people appear to respond well to this drug. However, many alternatives are available for those who develop side effects or do not feel that their condition has improved. Other benzodiazepine medicines that can be used as alternatives to clonazepam include:
 
Various types of antidepressants can also be used for the treatment of anxiety. The three different classes of antidepressants used as anxiety medications include:
 
  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
  • Tricyclics
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
     
(Click Anxiety Medications for more information, including the advantages and disadvantages of these different drug classes.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;