Comprehensive medication guide to {drug} including estimated pricing, availability information, side effects, and how to find it in stock at your local pharmacy.
Clonazepam (brand name Klonopin) is a benzodiazepine medication FDA-approved to treat certain seizure disorders — including Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, akinetic seizures, and myoclonic seizures — as well as panic disorder with or without agoraphobia. It is also used off-label for generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, restless legs syndrome, and REM sleep behavior disorder.
Clonazepam is a Schedule IV controlled substance, meaning it has a recognized medical use but also carries a risk of dependence and misuse. It is available as a generic and is generally affordable, though ongoing supply shortages have made it harder to find in 2025–2026.
Clonazepam works by enhancing the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the brain's primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. It binds to the benzodiazepine site on GABA-A receptors, increasing the frequency of chloride channel opening. This leads to greater neuronal inhibition and reduced excitability in the brain, which helps control seizures, reduce anxiety, and prevent panic attacks.
Because of its relatively long half-life compared to other benzodiazepines, Clonazepam provides sustained symptom relief and is typically taken two to three times daily.
For seizure disorders, typical starting doses are 0.5 mg three times daily, which may be gradually increased up to 20 mg/day. For panic disorder, the typical starting dose is 0.25 mg twice daily, with a maximum of 4 mg/day.
Clonazepam has a findability score of 45 out of 100, meaning it is moderately difficult to find in stock at your local pharmacy. Since 2023, Clonazepam has experienced recurring supply disruptions tied to broader benzodiazepine manufacturing challenges, increased demand, and DEA manufacturing quota limitations for Schedule IV controlled substances. Teva — one of the largest generic manufacturers — has reported intermittent back orders on the 0.5 mg and 2 mg tablets. The ASHP reported Clonazepam as a current shortage as of late 2025, with estimated recovery around mid-2026.
If your pharmacy is out of stock, try using Medfinder to locate pharmacies near you that have Clonazepam available. You may also want to call independent pharmacies, which often have better stock than large chains during shortages.
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Clonazepam can be prescribed by any licensed physician or authorized prescriber, but it is most commonly prescribed by:
Because Clonazepam is a Schedule IV controlled substance, it cannot be prescribed via most telehealth platforms under current DEA regulations. You will generally need an in-person visit or an established patient-provider relationship to receive a prescription.
Yes. Clonazepam is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance by the DEA. This means it has a recognized medical use but carries a risk of physical dependence, misuse, and addiction. Prescriptions may be subject to quantity limits, and refills require a new prescription in many states.
Clonazepam also carries an FDA Boxed Warning about the risk of fatal respiratory depression when used with opioids, as well as warnings about abuse, misuse, addiction, physical dependence, and life-threatening withdrawal reactions if discontinued abruptly.
More serious side effects can include respiratory depression (especially when combined with opioids or alcohol), suicidal thoughts, paradoxical reactions such as agitation or aggression, and severe withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects.
If you're unable to find Clonazepam in stock or your doctor is considering a switch, here are some common alternatives:
Important: Never switch or stop a benzodiazepine on your own. Always consult your prescriber before making any changes, as abrupt discontinuation can cause dangerous withdrawal symptoms including seizures.
Clonazepam can interact with many other medications. The most dangerous interactions include:
Also avoid grapefruit juice, which may increase Clonazepam levels, and herbal supplements like Kava and Valerian, which may increase sedation. Always tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you take.
Clonazepam is an effective and widely prescribed medication for seizure disorders and panic disorder, but ongoing supply shortages have made it harder to find in 2025–2026. With a findability score of 45, you may need to check multiple pharmacies or use tools like Medfinder to locate it in stock near you.
The good news is that generic Clonazepam is affordable — as low as $8–$15 with discount coupons — and is covered by most insurance plans as a Tier 1 generic. If your pharmacy is out of stock, ask your pharmacist about expected restock dates, try independent pharmacies, or talk to your prescriber about temporary alternatives.
As a controlled substance, Clonazepam requires careful management. Never adjust your dose or stop taking it without medical guidance, and always store it securely.
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