Klonopin, also known by the generic name of clonazepam, belongs to a family of anxiety-reducing drugs called benzodiazepines. They are commonly prescribed for conditions such as schizophrenia and act as a sedative. The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) says that Klonopin is a highly addictive and commonly abused drug that causes significant withdrawal symptoms. For patients who have a history of drug or alcohol addiction, the AAFP suggests using antidepressants, anticonvulsants, buspirone, neuroleptics or antihypertensive drugs as Klonopin alternatives.
Anticonvulsants
The most common anticonvulsants used as an alternative to Klonopin include valproic acid, or Depakene, and gabapentin, or Neurontin. Drugs.com states that Depakene is often used to control seizures in epileptic patients as well as preventing migraines and reducing symptoms of the manic phase of bipolar disorder. Neurontin is also used in epileptic patients and can treat nerve pain in patients suffering from shingles. They may be effective alternatives for patients suffering from generalized anxiety, panic disorders or post-traumatic stress disorder.
Buspirone
Buspirone is commonly prescribed to reduce anxiety and symptoms of anxiety conditions such as tension, fear, dizziness and racing heartbeat. This drug can react with grapefruit and grapefruit juice, and should not be taken with MAO inhibitors. Buspirone may help in treating generalized anxiety, social phobia, post-traumatic stress or obsessive-compulsive disorders.
Neuroleptics
Neuroleptics which may provide some relief to patients unable to take Klonopin include risperidone, or Risperdal; olanzapine, or Zyprexa; and quetiapine, or Seroquel. Zyprexa is commonly used to treat bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, and is an atypical antipsychotic; however, experts are not sure exactly how this drug affects your brain. This class of drugs may help in the treatment of acute anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Antihypertensives
Medications which help to lower high blood pressure, also known as antihypertensives, may be used to treat acute anxiety with some success, according to AAFP. Examples of such drugs include beta blockers and clonidine, also known as Catapres.
