Klonopin vs Xanax: Differences & Similarities

When it comes to treating anxiety and panic disorders, two of the most commonly prescribed medications are Klonopin (clonazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam). Both belong to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines, which work by calming the brain and CNS (central nervous system) [1]

While these benzos are similar in many ways, they differ in how they work and what they’re used for. This page explains the similarities and differences between clonazepam vs alprazolam so you can make more informed decisions. You will also discover how to connect with compassionate treatment for prescription drug misuse [2]. 

Clonazepam vs Alprazolam, Which Is Stronger? 

When comparing clonazepam (Klonopin) and alprazolam (Xanax), strength depends on how the drugs are used and their effects on the body. Both are powerful benzodiazepines that work by boosting the effects of GABA, a chemical in the brain that helps to calm anxiety and reduce activity in the CNS [3]. Clonazepam tends to stay in the body and work for longer than alprazolam.

Alprazolam (Xanax)  is faster-acting. It starts working within 1 to 2 hours after taking a dose. This means that when assessing Klonopin vs. Xanax for panic attacks, Xanax offers quicker relief from panic attacks or anxiety spikes. Clonazepam, on the other hand, may take a bit longer to reach its full effect—between 1 and 4 hours—but its calming effects can last 12 hours or more. 

When considering “is Klonopin stronger than Xanax?”, it depends on the condition being treated. Klonopin is often considered stronger for managing seizures, as it’s specifically approved for that purpose [4]. Xanax is better suited for short-term use in treating anxiety and panic disorders. 

Both drugs have the potential to cause dependence, but Xanax, due to its shorter half-life and faster action, is more likely to lead to misuse or withdrawal issues if not taken as prescribed [5].

The choice between clonazepam and alprazolam should be based on your needs, symptoms, and how your body responds to each medication. Your doctor will assess which one is most appropriate for you based on the severity of your anxiety or panic attacks, how long you need treatment, and your medical history.

Klonopin vs Xanax: Similarities

Klonopin and Xanax share a lot of similarities because they both belong to the same drug family – benzodiazepines. These medications are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders, and they work by enhancing the calming effect of GABA, a neurotransmitter in the brain. This action helps reduce feelings of anxiety, fear, and nervousness by slowing down brain activity. 

Both Klonopin and Xanax can provide quick relief for anxiety-related symptoms, although Xanax tends to work faster. Despite these differences in onset time, the Klonopin vs Xanax effect is similar: they can make you feel calmer, reduce tension, and help manage panic attacks. Both are also used for short-term treatment, as long-term use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and potential withdrawal symptoms. 

Another similarity between these benzos is the potential side effects they share. Common side effects of both Klonopin and Xanax include drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. These medications can also impair coordination and motor skills, so doctors usually advise against driving or operating heavy machinery while using them. 

Both drugs are classified as Schedule IV controlled substances, meaning they have the potential for misuse and addiction if not taken as prescribed [6]. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, as both Xanax and Klonopin can lead to dependence even when used for medical purposes. 

Uses

Klonopin and Xanax are both used to treat anxiety-related conditions, but they have different approved uses [7]. Klonopin (clonazepam) is most often prescribed to treat panic disorders and certain types of seizures. It works by calming the brain and CNS, which helps prevent sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain that can cause seizures. Because it lasts longer in the body, Klonopin is also used to provide more extended relief from anxiety and panic attacks. 

Xanax (alprazolam) is mainly used for short-term relief of anxiety and panic disorders [8]. It acts quickly, making it effective for sudden, intense episodes of anxiety, such as panic attacks. Unlike Klonopin, Xanax is not used for seizures, and its effects don’t last as long. Doctors prescribe Xanax for situations where fast-acting anxiety relief is needed but not for conditions requiring long-term, steady symptom control.

While both medications are powerful in managing anxiety, they are not considered first-line treatments for everyday episodes of anxiety. Doctors usually reserve these medications for more severe cases of anxiety disorders, or when other treatments, like antidepressants or therapy, have not been effective. Both drugs can help people regain control over their anxiety, but because of the risks involved, they are almost always prescribed for short-term use.

Side Effects

Klonopin and Xanax, like all medications, may trigger side effects. Since both are benzodiazepines, they share many similar side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. These effects can make daily tasks like driving or working dangerous, so people taking either Klonopin or Xanax should be cautious with activities that require alertness.

Both drugs can also cause issues like memory problems, lack of coordination, and muscle weakness. Some people may feel more tired or mentally foggy while taking these medications, and it can be hard to focus or remember. Slurred speech and blurred vision are other possible side effects that can make it difficult to go about daily activities. 

There are also more serious side effects to watch out for, such as mood changes, depression, or thoughts of self-harm [9]. These symptoms are less common but should be reported to a doctor immediately. In rare cases, both Klonopin and Xanax can cause allergic reactions, with symptoms like swelling, trouble breathing, or severe rash. If this happens, seek immediate medical attention. 

Another significant risk of benzos is dependence. Taking these medications regularly for more than a few weeks can lead to physical dependence, which means the body becomes used to the drug and needs it to function normally. Stopping suddenly after long-term use can cause withdrawal symptoms like shaking, anxiety, trouble sleeping, and even seizures in severe cases. This is why doctors recommend tapering off the drug slowly rather than stopping abruptly [10]. 

Xanax vs Klonopin: Differences

The main difference between Klonopin and Xanax is how long they last in the body. Klonopin has a longer-lasting effect, with its effects lasting up to 12 hours or more. This makes it a better option for people who need consistent relief throughout the day. Xanax starts working quicker but has a shorter duration of action, usually wearing off after between 4 and 6 hours. For this reason, Xanax is often used for immediate relief of anxiety or panic attacks but needs to be taken more frequently to maintain its effects. 

Another difference between the two is how they are used. Klonopin is not only prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders but also for treating certain types of seizures. Its anticonvulsant properties make it a valuable tool for people with epilepsy or other seizure-related conditions. Xanax, however, is specifically approved for anxiety and panic disorders and is not used to treat seizures. 

The potential for dependence and withdrawal also varies slightly between the two drugs. Because Xanax leaves the body faster, it has a higher risk of causing withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly. This can make it more challenging to taper off than Klonopin, which has a longer half-life and may cause less intense withdrawal symptoms when discontinued under medical supervision.

1mg Klonopin vs 1mg Xanax

When comparing 1mg of Klonopin to 1mg of Xanax, the main difference lies in how long the drug works and how often it needs to be taken. A dose of 1mg Klonopin tends to last much longer in the body – 12 hours or more – meaning it provides a more steady, prolonged effect. This longer duration can be helpful for people who need to control their symptoms throughout the day without multiple doses. 

1mg of Xanax works quicker but wears off sooner, usually within 6 hours. This makes Xanax more useful for situations where fast relief from anxiety or panic is needed, but it requires more frequent dosing to maintain its effect over time. 

While both drugs are effective in treating anxiety, 1mg of Klonopin is typically used for long-lasting control, while 1mg of Xanax is better for short-term, immediate relief. The two doses are roughly equivalent in strength for anxiety relief, but the difference in how long they last in the body is significant. 

Dosage Differences

Klonopin vs Xanax dosage differs based on their duration and intended use. Klonopin is typically prescribed in doses of 0.25mg to 0.5mg, taken twice or even three times daily, depending on the severity of the condition. Because it lasts longer in the body, it does not need to be taken as often as Xanax. Most people prescribed Klonopin will take it once or twice a day to manage their symptoms.

Xanax is normally prescribed in small doses of 0.25mg to 0.5mg but may need to be taken up to three or four times a day due to its shorter action in the body. For panic disorder, some people may require higher doses, sometimes exceeding 4mg per day. Since Xanax wears off quicker, doctors often prescribe it in multiple doses throughout the day to maintain a steady effect.

Both drugs should be started at the lowest effective dose to minimize side effects, with the option to increase the dose if needed. However, because of the risk of dependence and withdrawal, doctors typically aim to prescribe the smallest effective dose for the shortest period possible.

Side Effect Differences

While Klonopin and Xanax share many common side effects, there are some differences in how they may affect people. Both medications can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while taking them. However, because Klonopin stays in the body longer, some people may experience more prolonged drowsiness or fatigue than Xanax. 

Xanax, due to its faster action, is more likely to cause immediate feelings of relaxation or sedation, making it more appealing for misuse. This faster action also increases the risk of developing dependence quicker than Klonopin.

Additionally,  Xanax is more likely to cause mood changes, irritability, or depression in some people if taken for long periods. Klonopin may cause problems with memory or concentration, especially with chronic use. Both drugs can also cause more serious side effects, such as changes in behavior, hallucinations, or allergic reactions, though these are less common.

Working closely with a doctor to monitor side effects is key to finding the right balance between effective treatment and minimizing unwanted reactions. 

Klonopin vs Xanax | FAQs

Is switching from Xanax to Klonopin recommended?

Switching from Xanax to Klonopin may be recommended if you need longer-lasting relief from anxiety or panic. Your doctor will decide if this switch is right for you based on your symptoms and health history. 

Can I use both at the same time?

Using both Xanax and Klonopin at the same time is generally not recommended, as they are similar medications. Taking both together could increase the risk of side effects like drowsiness and dependence. Always talk to your doctor before combining medications.

Get Compassionate Addiction Treatment at Renaissance Recovery

If you have been misusing benzos like Klonopin or Xanax, contact Renaissance Recovery for help getting your life back on track. 

We treat benzo addictions in an outpatient setting at our luxury rehabs in California and Florida. Continue at home and work while getting compassionate addiction treatment during weekday sessions at one of our beachside facilities.

Every benzo addiction is unique, so all treatment plans at Renaissance are personalized to reflect this. Therapies include: 

• Medication-assisted treatment
• Motivational therapy
• Talk therapy (CBT and DBT)
• Counseling
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• Holistic treatment
• Aftercare

Begin your recovery from benzo addiction by calling 866-330-9449.

Sources

1. https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Benzodiazepenes-2020_1.pdf
2. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/misuse-prescription-drugs/overview
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6147796/
4. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2013/017533s053,020813s009lbl.pdf
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8583742/
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537318/
7. https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/anti-anxiety-medications-benzodiazepines
8. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3282478/
9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2047018/
10. https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HPA/DSI-Pharmacy/MHCAGDocs/Tapering-Benzodiazepines.pdf