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Compare Tenex vs. Xanax

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

Key takeaways

Guanfacine and alprazolam (Xanax) are both prescription medications, but they have some key differences. Guanfacine is an alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist used to treat high blood pressure and is typically taken once a day at bedtime. In contrast, alprazolam is a benzodiazepine used to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic attacks, and it is usually taken three times a day. Guanfacine is not a controlled substance, while alprazolam is a Schedule IV controlled medication due to its potential for dependence and misuse. Common side effects of guanfacine include sleepiness, dizziness, and dry mouth, whereas alprazolam can cause drowsiness, memory problems, and lightheadedness. Additionally, alprazolam has a risk of addiction and withdrawal symptoms, making it suitable only for short-term use. Guanfacine does not have these risks but can cause anxiety and nervousness if stopped suddenly.

  • Guanfacine
    Alprazolam (Xanax)
  • Guanfacine
    Alprazolam (Xanax)

  • Summary of Tenex vs. Xanax

    Summary for Alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist
    Prescription only

    Guanfacine is used to treat high blood pressure, but it's not a first-choice option. It's taken by mouth, typically once a day at nighttime. Common side effects of guanfacine include sleepiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. Some medications, such as sleep medications or certain pain medications, can interact with guanfacine by worsening those side effects. The brand name Tenex is no longer 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 Tenex vs. Xanax

    Indications for
    •High blood pressure in people ages 12 years and older
    Indications for
    •Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
    •Panic disorder

  • Pros and Cons of Tenex vs. Xanax

    Pros and Const for Alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist
    Pros
    •Available in a lower-cost generic version
    •Taken once a day
    •Taken by mouth
    Cons
    •Not a first-choice option for treating high blood pressure
    •Stopping suddenly can lead to anxiety and nervousness
    •Can cause sleepiness and dizziness
    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 Tenex vs. Xanax

    Common Side Effects for
    •Dry mouth (up to 54%)
    •Sleepiness (up to 39%)
    •Dizziness (up to 15%)
    •Constipation (up to 15%)
    •Headache (up to 13%)
    •Weakness (up to 10%)
    •Tiredness (up to 10%)
    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 Tenex vs. Xanax

    Common Side Effects for
    •Extreme sleepiness and dizziness
    •Nervousness and anxiety (from stopping guanfacine too suddenly)
    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 Tenex vs. Xanax

    Learn more about Guanfacine
    Learn more about Alprazolam

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