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Compare Tranxene vs. Xanax

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

Key takeaways

Clorazepate (Tranxene) and alprazolam (Xanax) are both benzodiazepines used to treat anxiety, but they have some important differences. Clorazepate is also used for alcohol withdrawal and as an add-on treatment for partial seizures, while alprazolam is approved for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder. Clorazepate is taken as a tablet, usually split into multiple doses throughout the day, while Alprazolam comes in immediate-release tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and oral solution and typically starts working within 30 minutes. Both medications can cause drowsiness and should not be mixed with alcohol or opioids due to the risk of serious side effects. Clorazepate can stay in your system for 8 to 10 days after stopping, while alprazolam usually stays in your system 2-3 days. Both medications are controlled substance due to their risk of leading to misuse and dependence.

  • Clorazepate (Tranxene)
    Alprazolam (Xanax)
  • Clorazepate (Tranxene)
    Alprazolam (Xanax)

  • Summary of Tranxene vs. Xanax

    Summary for Benzodiazepine
    Prescription only

    Clorazepate (Tranxene) is a tablet that's taken by mouth used for anxiety, alcohol withdrawal symptoms, and as an add-on treatment for seizures. It's a controlled substance that belongs to a group of medications called benzodiazepines. The dosage is usually split up throughout the day. Because it stays in your body for a long time, you might continue to experience side effects, such as dizziness or tremors, even after you've stopped this medication. Clorazepate (Tranxene) might not be safe for older adults, children younger than 9 years old, and people with liver problems.

    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 Tranxene vs. Xanax

    Indications for
    •Alcohol withdrawal
    •Anxiety
    •Add-on treatment for partial seizures
    Indications for
    •Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
    •Panic disorder

  • Pros and Cons of Tranxene vs. Xanax

    Pros and Const for Benzodiazepine
    Pros
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Approved for use in children age 9 and older for certain conditions
    •Possible add-on option for seizure if other medications aren't working
    •Dose can be adjusted based on your response
    Cons
    •Can be habit-forming, so isn't typically used for long-term treatment (e.g., 4 months)
    •Can cause dangerous withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly
    •Stays in your body for a long time, even after you've stopped taking it
    •Can cause more side effects in older adults and people with liver problems
    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 Tranxene vs. Xanax

    Common Side Effects for
    •Drowsiness
    •Dizziness
    •Upset stomach
    •Blurry vision
    •Dry mouth
    •Feeling nervous
    •Headache
    •Confusion
    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 Tranxene vs. Xanax

    Common Side Effects for
    •Trouble breathing, coma, and death
    •Misuse, dependency, and withdrawal
    •Difficulty with concentration and focus
    •Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
    •Harm to babies
    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 Tranxene vs. Xanax

    Learn more about Clorazepate
    Learn more about Alprazolam

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