Differences Ativan (Lorazepam) vs. Xanax (Alprazolam)

Ativan and Xanax may both be benzodiazepine drugs, but there are key differences between each medication and what they may be used to treat.

Article at a Glance:

Ativan and Xanax are both benzodiazepine drugs, but there are several differences between them.

The side effects and addiction risks are similar between these two medications.

Due to their unique drug properties, Ativan and Xanax are each used to treat different types of conditions.

Xanax vs. Ativan

Benzodiazepines, also known as benzos, are a class of sedative drugs used to treat anxiety, panic disorders, muscle spasms and seizures. Currently,Ativan(lorazepam) andXanax(alprazolam) are two of the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines. There are many similarities between the two medications, including what they are used to treat and how they affect the body. However, there are also some key differences.

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The similarities and differences between Ativan and Xanax include:

AtivanXanax
Generic NameLorazepamAlprazolam
Drug ClassBenzodiazepineBenzodiazepine
Drug ScheduleSchedule IVSchedule IV
UsesAnxiety, procedural anxiety, epilepsyAnxiety disorders
Dosage0.5 mg to 2 mg every four to six hours as needed (max 10 mg/day)0.25 mg to 4 mg every four to six hours (max 10 mg/day)
Short-term or Long-term UseShort-termShort-term
Side EffectsSedation, dizziness, weakness, unsteadinessDrowsiness, lightheadedness
WarningsHigh potential for abuse, can affect the liver and kidneys, tolerance may develop quickly, should not be used in older patientsHigh potential for abuse, can affect the liver and kidneys, tolerance may develop quickly, should not be used in older patients
Drug InteractionsAlcohol and other CNS depressantsAlcohol and other CNS depressants

Similarities Between Ativan and Xanax

Ativan and Xanax both affect a chemical messenger of the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA helps regulate communication between nerve cells in the brain. Benzosenhance GABA’s effectsand reduce the activity of nerves in the brain to produce a relaxing effect on the mind and body.

Since Ativan and Xanax have similar effects on the body, they are often prescribed for similar reasons. For example, they may be used as a short-term treatment for anxiety.

Both medications have a number of side effects,including:

If you are taking Ativan or Xanax, you should not drive or operate heavy machinery because many of these side effects can impair alertness.

Important Warning

Benzos like Ativan and Xanax can be addictive if used in excess or over an extended period of time. Ending use abruptly can cause dangerouswithdrawal symptoms, including:

Due to the potential for abuse and addiction, these drugs are only prescribed for short-term use and given in the lowest doses necessary.

Differences Between Xanax and Ativan

The most significant difference between Xanax and Ativan is the way each medication is processed by the body. Ativan has a slightly longer active time than Xanax, as Ativan’s effects peak withintwo to sixhours after consumption. Once Xanax is consumed, its effects peak withinone to twohours.

The half-life of each substance, or the amount of time required for a drug’s concentration to be reduced by half in the body, also varies significantly. The average half-life of Ativan is 10–20 hours, while the average half-life of Xanax typically falls between 12 and 15 hours.

What They Treat

Both Ativan and Xanax are used to treat anxiety, but these medicines can also be used for other reasons. For example, Ativan is also approved for use as a pre-surgery sedative.

Both drugs have several off-label uses for other conditions or problems, including:

Side Effects

Although Ativan and Xanax have many of the same side effects, some side effects of Xanax differ from those of Ativan. These include:

Is Ativan Better Than Xanax?

Each medication is extremely similar in medical situations. The primary difference is how long they work in the body, so each has different situations where they may work best. For example, Xanax is used more often for panic attacks because it has a veryquick onsetand wears off quickly. Ativanis often usedin situations that require several hours of sedation, such as when someone is agitated or about to begin a medical procedure.

If you or someone you love is struggling with benzodiazepines like Ativan or Xanax, The Recovery Village can help. We offer a full continuum of care that can address benzo addiction as well as co-occurring mental health disorders like anxiety. Contact us today to learn more about treatment programs that can work well for your situation.

Visit the following websites to learn about The Recovery Village’s network of rehabilitation facilities. Call today for admissions. Each center is ready to help people learn how to cope with their Ambien addiction and uncover the root causes for their substance use disorder.