Klonopin for OCD

Klonopin has been effective for some types of obsessive compulsive disorder which include anxiety. When used alone, klonopin does not work to relieve OCD symptoms, but in combination with SSRIs and cognitive behavioral treatment (CBT), it has had some success for some people in relieving symptoms and anxiety linked to the OCD.

Many OCD sufferers take SSRIs and use cognitive behavioral therapy to manage their symptoms. For some people on a regular or daily basis, this isn’t enough. For some people who have occasional anxiety, they just need a short term fix. Studies have shown the introduction of benzodiazepines like Klonopin have then boosted the therapy and been able to treat the symptoms OCD. Since SSRIs like Prozac are not contraindicated by benzodiazepines, they are often used in combination.

Many people with OCD experience anxiety and panic attacks as a result of their symptomology. For people who have real trouble controlling and dealing with episodes of anxiety caused by the OCD, Klonopin is often prescribed. It does not cure the OCD. It can be taken pre-emptively as well when future events suggest a likely anxiety or panic attack.

Klonopin decreases the excessive brain activity that can lead to anxiety and panic, the spiraling sensation that the person is out of control. GABA, gamma-amino butyric acid, is a chemical that nerve cells use to pass information to each other. Klonopin works by enhancing the effects of GABA making the messaging more efficient and effective.

First line treatment for OCD is almost always SSRI combined with CBT. When these do not work satisfactorily or when panic and anxiety spike up the OCD, second line, supplementary drugs like Klonopin can help take the edge off and get the patient back on track.

Source: nimh.nih.gov, healthguide