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Compare Midazolam vs. Xanax

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

Key takeaways

Midazolam (Seizalam, Versed) and Alprazolam (Xanax) are both benzodiazepines, but they are used for different purposes. Midazolam is primarily used for sedation before surgeries and to treat long-lasting seizures, and it is available as an injection, oral syrup, and nasal solution. It is typically administered by a healthcare provider in a monitored setting. Alprazolam, on the other hand, is used to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic attacks and is taken orally, usually three times a day. While both medications can cause drowsiness and memory problems, midazolam is more likely to be used in a hospital setting due to its risk of severe breathing problems. Alprazolam has a higher risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms, making it suitable only for short-term use. Additionally, midazolam is not safe to use late in pregnancy, whereas alprazolam should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential harm to the baby.

  • Midazolam
    Alprazolam (Xanax)
  • Midazolam
    Alprazolam (Xanax)

  • Summary of Midazolam vs. Xanax

    Summary for Benzodiazepine
    Prescription only

    Midazolam is used for sedation before surgery and other medical procedures in children and adults, as well as treatment for status epilepticus (long-lasting seizures) in adults. It comes as an injection and oral syrup. The medication is typically given by a healthcare provider in a monitored setting and can't be used at home. Some side effects of midazolam include nausea, agitation, drowsiness, and pain at the injection site for the injection form. And although the brand name Versed has been discontinued, there are many generics still available.

    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 Midazolam vs. Xanax

    Indications for
    •Sedation for surgery or other medical procedure
    •Long-lasting seizure (status epilepticus) - Seizalam
    Indications for
    •Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
    •Panic disorder

  • Pros and Cons of Midazolam vs. Xanax

    Pros and Const for Benzodiazepine
    Pros
    •Works within minutes to help you relax and feel calm before a medical procedure
    •Available as an injection and an oral syrup
    •Can be used in young children for sedation before a procedure
    Cons
    •Risk of severe breathing problems so it should only be used in a healthcare facility
    •Can cause hangover effect and raise the risk of falls
    •Not safe to use late in pregnancy
    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 Midazolam vs. Xanax

    Common Side Effects for

    Oral syrup

    •Vomiting (8%)
    •Nausea (4%)

    Injection for sedation

    •Pain at injection site (4-5%)
    •Hiccups (4%)
    •Nausea (3%)
    •Vomiting (3%)

    Injection for long-lasting seizure

    •Upper airway blockage (5%)
    •Agitation (4%)
    •Fever (4%)
    •Confusion (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 Midazolam vs. Xanax

    Common Side Effects for
    •Severe difficulty breathing
    •Continued memory problems after procedure
    •Harm to unborn baby if used in late pregnancy
    •Worsening of glaucoma
    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 Midazolam vs. Xanax

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