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Estazolam vs. Alprazolam

Estazolam (Prosom) is a sleeping pill that can help adults with insomnia fall asleep and stay asleep. It's a benzodiazepine medication that's not a first-choice treatment option for trouble sleeping, and it's only meant for short-term use since it can be habit-forming. It comes as a tablet that you take by mouth right before you get into bed. It's only available as a generic since the brand-name medication, Prosom, is no longer on the market. In addition to causing sleepiness, other common side effects can include headache, weakness, and nervousness.

• Short-term treatment of insomnia

• Sleepiness (42%)
• Headache (16%)
• Weakness (11%)
• Slow muscle movement (8%)
• Nervousness (8%)
• Dizziness (7%)
• General discomfort (5%)

• Sedation and difficulty breathing
• Misuse, dependence, and withdrawal
• Effect on driving and concentration
• Severe allergic reaction
• Abnormal behaviors during sleep
• Suicidal thoughts and behaviors

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.

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Panic disorder

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.

• 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