ugh. klonopin lasts longer and also takes longer to kick it. one former psychiatrist told me klonopin kicks in twice. there's an initial effect, and a more pronounced one about an hour later (something like that).

if i remember correctly, they're about equally potent. 1mgs/xanax = 1mgs/klonopin, both of which = 20mgs/valium.

klonopin is increasingly popular because xanax is getting a reputation for abuse, od, diversion, etc. some "experts" claim that klonopin is less "addictive." I dunno. Tapering off klonopin was rough for me, but its not that way for everyone.

i hope the switch-a-roo goes well for you, no major problems. klonopin can cause depression or make depression worse. any benzodiazepine can, but klonopin is particularly notorious for it. on the other hand, klonopin is used now and then to help even out moods in bipolar people, and its a better choice for (hypo)mania, psychosis, etc.\

i dont really have any solid advice. i personally dont like it when psychiatrists do stuff like this. i see it as power tripping.