The previous post on antipsychotics was regarding the question of whether haldol would knock you out, Mickey.

But now, on to another thing..... following on from Bizi's notes from the Ashton manual...

Not all benzo's are created equal.

While all benzodiazepines have some degree of anxiolytic, sedative, and anticonvulsive properties, each has a unique profile... some are used more as sedatives/hypnotics, others more as anxiolytics.

Klonopin is an anxiolytic and in a pinch useful for status epilepticus (diazepam is usually used).

Klonopin or other anxiolytics are sometimes given for insomnia is secondary to anxiety.

Normally, for primary or "true" insomnia, hypnotic benzo's are given. one example is Dalmane. This one is not often given because its major metabolite has a very long half-life (up to 100 hours), such that the effects are seen best on the second or third night of administration.

it is not terribly potent, on the benzo scale, but as it has a different profile (more hypnotic vs anxiolytic) attempts should not be made to substitute it for an anxiolytic ... say... Klonopin.

Also, in this particular situation with 10mg Klonopin not "working" the receptors may have reached saturation such that the Klonopin is being discarded. if that is the case, another benzo of any sort will likely be ineffective, as the same receptors are in play for all benzo's (BZD binding sites on GABA receptors). The other risk, if the Klonopin is indeed active, is that the hypnotic effect be magnified... to an unknown extent... the two drugs will compete for binding, and i've no idea which one has greatest affinity.

Furthermore, there may be enzymatic induction in the liver, or transport issues interfering with the Klonopin's action in the body. There may be conditions by which its absorption is being blocked. we do not know what is going on. So tossing in new meds, be it atypical or paratypical APs, or hypnotic benzo is rather a scary prospect outside of a hospital context where any emergency can be handled promptly.

Emergencies could include severe cardiorespiratory depression, tachycardia, bradycardia, or even seizures, depending what is going on with these meds.

at worst, if there is to be no hospital going, no drug should be added without full medical consultation.

~ waves ~ praying for your safety.