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Akathisia and Benzodiazepines

This is probably in the wrong forum. I appologize in advance if so.

My question is about Akathisia. I am pretty sure I have this (although not diagnosed, never brought up either). I constantly have to stretch my biceps, clinch my jaw/neck crack stretch all my limbs, and ankles. I believe (after researching) this is what I have.

I am prescribed Diazepam 5mg TID, a benzodiazepine. Along with research it is been read that Clonazepam is a treatment for Akathisia (which is obviously another benzodiazepine). I have a doctors appointment soon, whom prescribes me the valium and I was wondering if it would be appropriate to bring this up to him and suggest the switch to this benzo from the valium. The valium is for my spasms (which it works great). The GABA action I get from it must be good due to my lack there of spasms, I hope Klonopin does the same. I hope this is enough information, I just want to know if this would be the correct step to take. Thank you in advance.
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564491 tn?1320360393
When you're dealing wih something as serious as Akathisia, your physician is your best source of information.  People on the forum can give your their own personal anecdotal accounts of how medication has affected them.  However, if youhave a specific question about a particular medication, and how it might effect you, your own doctor is your best bet in answering any questions.  Good luck.

Peace and many blessings,

Ellen
Helpful - 0
585414 tn?1288941302
Valium and Klonopin are both benzodiazepenes. They both treat akathesia (which is temporary) and do not cause it. Are you taking any other medications? If you are taking a medication that causes akathesia then that's where its from. If not think what you took in the past. Make a list for your doctor. If you are not taking a medication that causes akathesia then they need to rule out tardive dyskinesia which is a long term effect of some medications (google "Patient Education Tardive Dyskinesia" the site is clinically accurate and itself says "some of these medications may be neccessary"). I have tardive dyskinesia and have taken Klonopin for 10 years and it actually treats it. Have a detailed conversation with your psychiatrist and if they think anything is of concern and if they diagnose that it is treatable (a neurologist who is a movement disorders specialist would follow up) and I could give you more information then.
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