Klonopin (clonazepam) for Pain Management in MS

Klonopin (clonazepam) is inĀ a class of medicines called benzodiazepines, which slow nerve messages in theĀ central nervous system (CNS). Its mechanism of action is not well understood,Ā but it is believed that KlonopinĀ has the capacity to enhance the activity of the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, slowing it down.

Klonopin’s main use is for seizures and panic attacks, but it is sometimes used to treat tremors and is occasionally used to manage pain or spasticity in diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS) when other medicines donā€™t work.

clonazepamSome of Klonopin’s possibleĀ side effectsĀ drowsiness, problems with walking and coordination, dizziness, depression, fatigue and problems with memory.

KlonopinĀ has a black box warning (information that appears on a prescription drugā€™s label and is designed to call attention to serious or life-threatening risks) concerning concomitant use of clonazepam with opioids, which may result in profound sedation, breathing difficulties, coma, and death.

Klonopin is also available as a generic medicine.

Pain can have a majorĀ impact on the quality of life of people with MS. A combination of positive attitudes (exercising and staying active, massages, chiropractic treatments, hydrotherapy, acupuncture) and medications can reduce the effect that MS hasĀ on the quality of life of those with the disease.

The usual analgesics are usually not enough to ease the pain from nerve damage in the central nervous system, so drugs that treat seizures (phenytoin, gabapentin, carbamazepine) along with antidepressants (amitriptyline, nortriptyline) and some benzodiazepines (clonazepam) are generally theĀ first choices for pain management among physicians.

Note: Multiple Sclerosis News TodayĀ is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.