Understanding Benzodiazepines: Ativan and Klonopin
Ativan (lorazepam) and Klonopin (clonazepam) both belong to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines, which are central nervous system (CNS) depressants [1.7.5]. They work by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which reduces brain activity, leading to a calming or sedative effect [1.7.5]. Medically, they are prescribed to treat a range of conditions. Ativan is FDA-approved for anxiety disorders, anxiety linked with depressive symptoms, and active seizures [1.7.3]. Klonopin is approved for treating panic disorders and certain types of seizures [1.7.6]. While both are effective, their different properties lead to different uses and subjective experiences.
The Core Question: Defining the "High"
The concept of a "high" from a prescription medication is subjective but often relates to feelings of euphoria, intense relaxation, and relief from anxiety [1.2.1]. In the context of benzodiazepines, the perceived intensity of a high is closely linked to how quickly the drug takes effect and its potency. A rapid onset can produce a "rush" that some users find more desirable, which also increases the drug's abuse potential [1.7.3].
Pharmacological Breakdown: Why They Feel Different
The primary reason Ativan and Klonopin produce different subjective effects lies in their pharmacokinetics: specifically, their onset of action and half-life.
Onset of Action: This is how quickly a drug begins to produce its effects.
- Ativan (Lorazepam): Has a faster onset of action. When taken orally, its effects can be felt within 15 to 60 minutes [1.2.3, 1.7.4]. This rapid start is why it's often preferred for acute situations like panic attacks [1.7.2].
- Klonopin (Clonazepam): Has a slower onset, with effects typically noticeable within 1 to 4 hours [1.2.3, 1.7.5].
The faster onset of Ativan is a key reason why it may be perceived as producing a more immediate and intense high compared to the more gradual effects of Klonopin.
Half-Life: This measures the time it takes for half of the drug to be eliminated from the body. It determines the duration of the drug's effects.
- Ativan (Lorazepam): Is an intermediate-acting benzodiazepine with a half-life of about 12 to 18 hours [1.3.2, 1.7.5]. Its effects last for approximately 6 to 8 hours [1.7.4].
- Klonopin (Clonazepam): Is a long-acting benzodiazepine with a much longer half-life of 30 to 40 hours [1.3.2, 1.3.7]. Its effects can last for 12 hours or more [1.7.2].
Because Ativan's effects wear off more quickly, users may feel the need to re-dose sooner, which can lead to a cycle of abuse and a higher potential for addiction [1.7.3]. The withdrawal symptoms from shorter-acting benzodiazepines like Ativan can also be more intense [1.3.4].
Potency: Potency refers to the amount of a drug needed to produce a given effect.
- Clonazepam is considered to be more potent than lorazepam. The typical dose conversion ratio is that 0.5 mg of clonazepam is equivalent to 1 mg of lorazepam [1.4.1, 1.4.6]. This means that on a milligram-to-milligram basis, Klonopin is roughly twice as potent as Ativan.
While Klonopin is more potent, Ativan's faster onset often contributes more significantly to the perception of a stronger "high" or euphoric rush.
Comparison Table: Ativan vs. Klonopin
| Feature | Ativan (Lorazepam) | Klonopin (Clonazepam) |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | Benzodiazepine (Intermediate-acting) [1.3.2] | Benzodiazepine (Long-acting) [1.3.2] |
| Onset of Action | Faster: 15-60 minutes (oral) [1.2.3, 1.3.6] | Slower: 1-4 hours (oral) [1.2.3, 1.4.6] |
| Half-Life | 12-18 hours [1.3.2, 1.7.5] | 30-40 hours [1.3.2, 1.4.6] |
| Duration of Effect | 6-8 hours [1.7.2, 1.7.4] | 12+ hours [1.7.2] |
| Potency | 1 mg is equivalent to 0.5 mg of clonazepam [1.4.1] | 0.5 mg is equivalent to 1 mg of lorazepam [1.4.1] |
| Primary Use | Acute anxiety, panic attacks, pre-surgery [1.7.2] | Long-term anxiety, panic disorder, seizures [1.7.2] |
| Addiction Risk | Considered higher due to faster onset/shorter half-life [1.7.3] | High, but comparatively lower than Ativan [1.2.6] |
Dangers of Misuse and Combining Medications
Seeking a "high" from benzodiazepines is extremely dangerous and constitutes substance abuse. Both drugs carry a high risk for dependence, tolerance, and addiction [1.7.2]. Long-term use can lead to significant cognitive impairment, memory problems, and a worsening of underlying mental health conditions like depression and anxiety [1.8.2].
Crucially, mixing benzodiazepines with each other or with other CNS depressants like alcohol or opioids is life-threatening. Combining these substances has a synergistic effect, meaning the combined impact is greater than the sum of their individual effects [1.5.4]. This dramatically increases the risk of severe side effects, including:
- Respiratory Depression: Slowed or stopped breathing, which can be fatal [1.5.2, 1.5.4].
- Extreme Sedation and Loss of Consciousness [1.5.1].
- Cognitive and Memory Impairment (Blackouts) [1.5.2].
- Increased Risk of Overdose and Death [1.5.6].
Statistics show that benzodiazepines are involved in a significant number of opioid overdose deaths [1.5.6]. It is never safe to take these medications without a prescription or to mix them with other depressants.
Conclusion
So, does Ativan get you higher than Klonopin? Due to its faster onset of action, many users report that Ativan produces a more immediate and intense feeling of euphoria or a "rush" compared to the slower, more gradual effects of Klonopin [1.2.3, 1.7.4]. However, Klonopin is pharmacologically more potent on a per-milligram basis and has a much longer duration of action [1.4.1, 1.7.2]. This distinction is critical. The very properties that make Ativan feel "stronger" to some also contribute to its higher reported potential for addiction and more intense withdrawal symptoms [1.7.3, 1.3.4]. Both medications are powerful, carry significant risks, and should only ever be used exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Misusing prescription medication is dangerous. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, seek help from a qualified healthcare provider or a substance abuse treatment center.
For more information on benzodiazepine safety, you can visit the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA).
