Ativan (lorazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam) are psychotropic drugs (medications that impact the nervous system). They're commonly used to treat anxiety, insomnia, panic disorders, muscle spasms, and seizures.
Ativan and Xanax belong to a drug class known as benzodiazepines. They're classified as Schedule IV controlled substances due to their high potential for abuse, misuse, and addiction. Sr9009 Cas 1379686-30-2
Their exact mechanism of action (the way they work) has yet to be entirely understood. However, they are believed to work by enhancing the activity of a chemical in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).
Benzodiazepines reduce the activity of neurons in the brain. This creates the following effects:
The following article will cover differences, safety, and additional steps you can take to address anxiety.
The risk of addiction to benzodiazepines exists. Learn to identify the signs of addiction and take appropriate actions accordingly.
Some helpful strategies for recognizing addiction could include the following:
If addiction is suspected, speak to your healthcare or mental health provider immediately. They will assess the situation and suggest appropriate treatment options. Possible therapies may include behavioral therapy, medications, and support groups.
Ativan (lorazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam) are very similar, but they also have notable differences, including:
Ativan and Xanax, like other benzodiazepines, have risks that include the potential for addiction, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms. They can become addictive quickly.
Be mindful of the signs and symptoms of addiction when taking these substances, like the following:
Ativan (lorazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam) belong to the benzodiazepine class of drugs. They basically work by increasing the activity of a specific chemical (GABA) in the brain.
GABA helps calm nerve cell activity to relieve anxiety, promote relaxation, and induce sleep.
These drugs can aid in managing anxiety symptoms like the following:
Ativan and Xanax are fast-acting benzodiazepines that provide quick relief of symptoms.
Unfortunately, they can cause side effects, including the following:
It's important only to take Ativan or Xanax as directed by your healthcare provider and be aware of all possible risks and benefits.
Seek advice from healthcare providers immediately if any adverse reactions do arise while taking Ativan or Xanax.
Keep in mind the following when taking benzodiazepines:
Keeping an open line of communication with your healthcare provider is key.
Possible drug interactions of Ativan (lorazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam) may include but are not limited to the following:
Living with anxiety may sometimes be challenging. However, tips for managing it include the following:
Managing anxiety is a process; finding what works for you may take some time. Be patient with yourself and seek assistance if necessary.
Benzodiazepines like Ativan and Xanax commonly treat problems like insomnia, anxiety, panic disorders, seizure, or muscle spasms. Although both drugs are in the same drug class, they can differ in how fast they work and how safe they are. For example, Xanax works faster than Ativan to relieve symptoms. However, based on the drug safety profile, Ativan is considered safer than Xanax because it has a lower chance of causing withdrawal symptoms or rebound anxiety.
Take all your medications only as directed by your medical provider. Do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider with any questions about your medicine.
Ativan and Xanax are similar but are not the same. They have different onset of action, duration of action, and dosage forms. They, however, belong to the drug class called benzodiazepines and are used to treat symptoms of certain disorders like panic disorder, anxiety, and insomnia.
Although Ativan (lorazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam) are both effective benzodiazepines, they still differ in strength. Xanax is considered to be stronger than Ativan. Yet, this may vary from person to person depending on the dosage, frequency, or formulation taken.
You can safely and effectively use Ativan and Xanax. However, here are a few essential tips to follow:
Edinoff AN, Nix CA, Hollier J, et al. Benzodiazepines: uses, dangers, and clinical considerations. Neurol Int. 2021;13(4):594-607. doi:10.3390/neurolint13040059
Food and Drug Administration. Alprazolam label.
Food and Drug Administration. Lorazepam label.
Hirshkowitz M, Whiton K, Albert SM, et al. National Sleep Foundation's sleep time duration recommendations: methodology and results summary. Sleep Health. 2015;1(1):40-43. doi:10.1016/j.sleh.2014.12.010
Lakasing E, Mirza Z. Anxiety and depression in young adults and adolescents. Br J Gen Pract. 2020;70(691):56-57. doi:10.3399/bjgp20X707765
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By Queen Buyalos, PharmD Queen Buyalos is a pharmacist and freelance medical writer. She takes pride in advocating for cancer prevention, overall health, and mental health education. Queen enjoys counseling and educating patients about drug therapy and translating complex ideas into simple language.
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