What Is Klonopin?

Klonopin is the brand name for Clonazepam, a benzodiazepine anticonvulsant manufactured by Genentech (Roche). It is FDA-approved to treat seizure disorders (including Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, akinetic seizures, and myoclonic seizures) and panic disorder with or without agoraphobia. It is also sometimes prescribed off-label for generalized anxiety disorder, insomnia, restless legs syndrome, and essential tremor.

How Does Klonopin Work?

Klonopin works by enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the brain's primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. It binds to the benzodiazepine site on GABA-A receptors, which increases inhibitory signaling in the central nervous system. This produces calming, anticonvulsant, and anti-anxiety effects. Klonopin has a relatively long duration of action compared to some other benzodiazepines, which is why it is effective for both seizure prevention and panic disorder management.

What Doses Are Available for Klonopin?

• Klonopin Tablets: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg
• Klonopin Wafer / Clonazepam ODT (Orally Disintegrating Tablets): 0.125 mg, 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg

Your doctor will determine the right dose based on your condition. Panic disorder treatment typically starts at 0.25 mg twice daily, while seizure treatment may start at 0.5 mg three times daily.

How Hard Is It to Find Klonopin in Stock?

Klonopin (Clonazepam) has a findability score of 45 out of 100, meaning it can be moderately difficult to find in stock at your local pharmacy. An active shortage of Clonazepam tablets has persisted since March 2023, with manufacturers like Teva experiencing intermittent back orders on the 0.5 mg and 2 mg strengths. As of early 2026, some strengths have been reverified as available, but supply disruptions continue. Using Medfinder can help you quickly locate pharmacies near you that currently have Klonopin or Clonazepam in stock.

Who Can Prescribe Klonopin?

Because Klonopin is a Schedule IV controlled substance, any licensed prescriber with DEA authorization can prescribe it. Common prescribing specialties include:

• Psychiatrists — for panic disorder and anxiety
• Neurologists — for seizure disorders
• Primary Care / Family Medicine Physicians
• Internal Medicine Physicians
• Pediatric Neurologists — for childhood seizure disorders

Note that Klonopin is generally not available through telehealth platforms due to DEA regulations on prescribing controlled substances.

Is Klonopin a Controlled Substance?

Yes. Klonopin (Clonazepam) is classified as a DEA Schedule IV controlled substance. This means it has a recognized medical use but carries a risk of abuse, misuse, addiction, and physical dependence. The FDA requires a boxed warning on all benzodiazepines stating that concomitant use with opioids may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Patients should never stop Klonopin abruptly — doses must be tapered gradually under medical supervision to avoid potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms, including seizures.

Common Side Effects of Klonopin

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Coordination problems (ataxia)
• Memory impairment
• Depression
• Increased salivation
• Blurred vision
• Cognitive impairment

Serious side effects can include respiratory depression (especially when combined with opioids or alcohol), suicidal thoughts, paradoxical agitation, and severe withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects.

Alternative Medications to Klonopin

If you cannot find Klonopin in stock or your doctor recommends a change, these are common alternatives:

• Lorazepam (Ativan) — An intermediate-acting benzodiazepine commonly used for anxiety and seizures
• Diazepam (Valium) — A long-acting benzodiazepine used for anxiety, seizures, and muscle spasms
• Alprazolam (Xanax) — A short-acting benzodiazepine primarily used for panic and anxiety disorders
• Clobazam (Onfi) — A benzodiazepine anticonvulsant specifically used for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome

Always consult your prescriber before switching medications. Use Medfinder to check availability of alternatives near you.

Drug Interactions with Klonopin

Klonopin has several important drug interactions to be aware of:

• Opioids — Risk of fatal respiratory depression (boxed warning)
• Alcohol — Enhanced CNS depression; must be avoided
• Other Benzodiazepines and CNS Depressants — Additive sedation
• Phenytoin — Altered drug levels of both medications
• Carbamazepine — May reduce Clonazepam levels
• CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Ketoconazole, Itraconazole) — May increase Clonazepam levels
• Grapefruit Juice — May increase Clonazepam levels

Always inform your prescriber and pharmacist of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Final Thoughts on Klonopin

Klonopin (Clonazepam) remains an important medication for patients with seizure disorders and panic disorder, but the ongoing shortage that began in 2023 continues to make it challenging to find in 2026. With a findability score of just 45, many patients are experiencing difficulty locating their medication at local pharmacies. Generic Clonazepam is affordable — as low as $8 with a discount coupon — but availability is the primary concern. If you're struggling to find Klonopin in stock, Medfinder can help you search pharmacies near you in seconds. Talk to your doctor about alternatives if your pharmacy continues to be out of stock.