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Compare Ativan vs. Xanax

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Lorazepam (Ativan) and alprazolam (Xanax) are both benzodiazepines used to treat anxiety, but they have some differences. Lorazepam is available in both oral and injectable forms, while alprazolam is only taken by mouth. Lorazepam is used short-term for anxiety disorders, anxiety associated with depressive symptoms. It can also be used to control seizures and ease surgery-related anxiety when given as an injection. Alprazolam is specifically approved for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder. Both medications can cause drowsiness and have a risk of dependence, but alprazolam has a higher incidence of memory problems and other side effects like irritability and appetite changes. Additionally, both medications should be used with caution, especially when combined with alcohol or opioids, and should not be stopped suddenly to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

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  • Lorazepam (Ativan)
    Alprazolam (Xanax)
  • Lorazepam (Ativan)
    Alprazolam (Xanax)

  • Summary of Ativan vs. Xanax

    Summary for Benzodiazepine
    Prescription only

    Lorazepam (Ativan) is a benzodiazepine used for short-term treatment of anxiety. The oral tablets and solution are taken by mouth, typically 1 to 3 times daily, depending on the formulation. Lorazepam is also available as an injectable medication that's given by healthcare professionals in a hospital setting to control seizures. Sleepiness and dizziness are the most common side effects of lorazepam (Ativan).

    Summary for Benzodiazepine
    Prescription only

    Alprazolam (Xanax) is a benzodiazepine. It's approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic attacks in adults. It's taken by mouth, typically 3 times a day or as directed by your healthcare team. To avoid the risk of dependence, alprazolam (Xanax) is meant for short-term treatment only. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include drowsiness and memory problems. You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking alprazolam (Xanax) because this can lead to serious interactions.

  • Indications of Ativan vs. Xanax

    Indications for
    •Anxiety disorders
    •Anxiety associated with depressive symptoms
    •Short-term relief of anxiety
    •Seizures lasting longer than 5 minutes - injection only
    •Surgery-related anxiety, usually given shortly before anesthesia - injection only
    Indications for
    •Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
    •Panic disorder

  • Pros and Cons of Ativan vs. Xanax

    Pros and Const for Benzodiazepine
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Might start to work within 30 minutes to manage anxiety symptoms
    •Available as oral solution, good option for those who can't swallow tablets
    •Some forms available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Short-term use only because risk of dependence and memory problems
    •Can drowsiness, and dizziness
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly
    •Can't take with alcohol
    Pros and Const for Benzodiazepine
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Can start to work in 30 minutes
    •Available as quick-dissolving tablets or liquid for people who have trouble swallowing pills
    Cons
    •Can cause memory problems, drowsiness, and confusion
    •Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms
    •Not preferred during pregnancy

  • Common Side Effects of Ativan vs. Xanax

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness (16%)
    •Dizziness (7%)
    •Weakness (4%)
    •Unsteadiness (3%)
    Common Side Effects for

    Generalized anxiety disorder:

    •Drowsiness (41%)
    •Lightheadedness (21%)
    •Dry mouth (15%)

    Panic disorder:

    •Drowsiness (77%)
    •Fatigue (49%)
    •Poor coordination (40%)
    •Memory issues (33%)
    •Irritability (33%)
    •Appetite changes (28-33%)
    •Thinking problems (29%)
    •Constipation (26%)

    Side effects listed are for the immediate-release forms. Side effects for extended-release form might differ.

  • Warnings of Ativan vs. Xanax

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sedation and difficulty breathing
    •Misuse, dependence, and withdrawal
    •Depression and suicidal thoughts or behaviors
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Trouble breathing
    •Risk of agitation and restlessness
    •Harm to babies
    •Serious allergic reaction (Loreev XR only)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sedation and difficulty breathing
    •Potential for misuse, addiction, dependence, and withdrawal
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Harm to babies
    •Interactions with other medications
    •Use with caution in people with depression

  • Prices with our coupons for Ativan vs. Xanax

    Learn more about Lorazepam
    Learn more about Alprazolam

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