How long does it take for Klonopin to work? Does it have to build up in your system?
Question posted by Benny82 on 25 June 2014
Last updated on 16 September 2019
After having depression/anxiety symptoms and not being able to see my Dr for three weeks, I restarted on Prozac 20mg using some unfinished meds. After 10 days I became extremely agitated with constant rapid heartbeat; my anxiety symptoms magnified greatly, and worst of all, I have been unable to sleep more than two hours per night.
Sounding pretty desperate on the phone, my Drs office got me in today and he switched me to Lexapro 20mg, with Klonopin 0.5mg. He told me to take one Klonopin 0.5mg this evening, and then beginning tomorrow half the dose morning and evening. So, after taking the 0.5mg tablet this evening, it did initially relax me, and I was able to sleep for a couple of hours, but then I awoke with the same anxiety and rapid heartbeat symptoms. It's 3am now and I'm not feeling one bit tired or relaxed.
Does it take time for Klonopin to build up in your system before you feel any relief? Was I expecting too much, thinking that the 0.5mg tablet would knock me out when taking it for the first time? All help is so much appreciated; I am nearing the end of my rope with feeling intense anxiety 24/7. Thank you.
Added 25 June 2014:
Just reaching out to anyone who might be able to help? Thanks.
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Answers
JO
Jonstwr900
16 Sep 2019
I’m not sure that the milligram you’re on is strong enough. The thing is with Klonopin it takes longer to take affect, and it’s longer lasting so you don’t feel much. If it’s your first time taking the medication then you may feel something right away but that’s not going to to take care of business for very long. I have severe depression/anxiety PTSD. I was on 20 mg of Prozac and that made my heart rate absolutely skyrocket after two weeks and I have extremely high blood pressure so my doctor like your doctor put me on the same medication. I take a 2 mg once a day, I’m working on lowering but as a 190 pound man that’s what my body requires And I don’t feel anything, it just takes care of some of the anxiety. I still am anxious 24 seven but that’s something I’m learning to deal with in different ways.
Votes: +0
MA
Marla82
16 Sep 2019
Are you still taking the Prozac and Klonopin? I tried the Prozac but had to stop due to the side effects. If you are still taking both, have they helped you?
KM
kmlvr9
26 June 2014
Klonopin doesn't have to build up to be effective. The situation could be that the Lexapro hasn 't reached a therapeutic dosage in your body yet. Antidepressants take time to become effective in the body. It appears that you may be experiencing panic attacks since you stated that your heart races. Depression also causes anxiety and agitation. What is most important is that you continue your medication as instructed and also be patient. Sometimes, antidepressants can take 2 to 3 weeks to become completely effective. Also, try to avoid becoming dependent on Klonopin. Many people experience withdrawals from this drug. My dr. prescribed Ambien for my insomnia. It does help, but I plan to wean slowly off this drug to prevent from becoming dependent. Klonopin, Valium and Xanax are anti anxiety drugs that shoud be used short term, just like Ambien. Once your antidepressant becomes effective you will feel much better. If the Lexapro doesn't work, you can suggest to your dr. tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine. This antidepressant has a sedative effect and helps people sleep. My dr. told me that when he takes patients off Klonopin, he prescribes imipramine to help ease any withdrawals. I hope you feel better, soon!
Votes: +1
BE
Benny82
26 June 2014
Thanks for your answer. This is a bit rambling, I apologize. I was feeling much better last night and managed to get four hours sleep with the klonopin. This morning though, I'm back to the jitters, panicky feeling of dread about everything. This is really hard to take when you're in the moment. I did find however that if I keep busy it helps somewhat. I also found that the worst thing I can do is sit in a chair and stare at the floor for hours, even though sometimes that's all I feel capable of doing. I'm trying to tell myself that I can fight this and get through it and as you say, I just need to be patient. I'm hoping that being on prozac for 12 days prior to beginning lexapro will have given me a headstart with the side effects ending soon. I'm finding that the anxiety comes over in waves, and will lift a little bit at times, so maybe this is a sign that things are getting better.
There's no way that I want to become dependent on klonopin, and so as soon as I can stop taking it I'm going to discuss how with my Dr. Thank you for your support.
