Which Is More Effective for Severe Anxiety - Klonopin or Xanax?

According to the Anxiety Association of America, anxiety is the most common mental illness in the U.S. and affects nearly 20 percent of the population. If anxiety is severe, treatment with a class of medications called benzodiazepine may be necessary. There are about 15 different types of medication in this category. Two common types of benzodiazepines used are Xanax and Klonopin.

How They Work

• These medications affect one of the main neurotransmitters of the brain, gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA), which inhibits motor neurons. When benzodiazepines are taken, the GABA is increased, thereby slowing the neuronal activity, resulting in decreased nerve impulses throughout the body.

  Xanax (alprazolam) is used to treat moderate anxiety disorders. Symptoms of these disorders may include nervousness, tension, panic attacks, and anxiety caused by depression. The effects of Xanax work more immediately on these symptoms but do not last as long as Klonopin.

  Klonopin (clonazapam) is used to treat panic disorder, the symptoms of which the National Mental Health Information Center describes as "heart-pounding terror." Since the episodes are unpredictable, many people live with constant fear of their next attack. Though Klonopin is effective in treating these symptoms, it may take several weeks before the full effects of the drug are felt.

Which is Best for You?

• Xanax and Klonopin have several similar effects that are common in the majority of people, however, until you have personally taken these medications you will not know the full effectiveness of either. Consider some important information when determining which of these medications will be the best option. Weigh the side effects that each present, the amount of time you will be taking the medication, your tolerance levels and whether you are taking other medications, supplements or vitamins that may interfere with the effectiveness.

  Discuss the symptoms of your anxiety with a doctor. Be realistic about the benefits of taking anti-anxiety drugs and know that benzodiazepine medications do not cure, but may help with symptoms of severe anxiety. For long-term treatment of severe anxiety disorders, other pharmacological and psychological therapies may be advised.

  Everyone reacts differently to different medications and dosages. Finding the right treatment for severe anxiety can be a personal challenge and may require trying different options to find out what works best for you.