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Compare Xanax vs. Chlordiazepoxide

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

Key takeaways

Alprazolam (Xanax) and chlordiazepoxide (Librium) are both benzodiazepines used to treat anxiety, but they have some key differences. Alprazolam is also approved for treating panic disorder, while chlordiazepoxide is used for alcohol withdrawal and preoperative anxiety. Alprazolam works quickly, often within 30 minutes, and is typically taken three times a day. In contrast, chlordiazepoxide takes longer to kick in, up to 4 hours, and can be taken up to four times a day depending on the condition being treated. Alprazolam is available in various forms, including immediate- release tablets, quick-dissolving tablets, and liquid. Chlordiazepoxide is only available as a capsule. Both medications carry risks of addiction, dependence, and withdrawal. Chlordiazepoxide is noted for its longer-lasting presence in the body, which can lead to prolonged side effects. Additionally, both medications should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential harm to the baby.

  • Alprazolam (Xanax)
    Chlordiazepoxide
  • Alprazolam (Xanax)
    Chlordiazepoxide

  • Summary of Xanax vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    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.

    Summary for Benzodiazepine
    Prescription only

    Chlordiazepoxide is used for the short-term relief of anxiety symptoms. It can also prevent alcohol withdrawal symptoms, like seizures. This medication has a risk of addiction, so it's classified as a schedule IV controlled substance. Your dose will depend on the reason why you're using it, your age, and your other health conditions. Some possible side effects of chlordiazepoxide include drowsiness, trouble with balance and movement, and confusion. Chlordiazepoxide comes as a capsule, and is available as a brand name and a lower-cost generic.

  • Indications of Xanax vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    Indications for
    •Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
    •Panic disorder
    Indications for
    •Alcohol withdrawal
    •Preoperative anxiety and anxiety disorders

  • Pros and Cons of Xanax vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    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
    Pros and Const for Benzodiazepine
    Pros
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •A first-choice treatment option for alcohol withdrawal
    •Can be used in children age 6 and older
    •Dose can be adjusted by your provider based on your response
    Cons
    •Controlled medication due to the risk of addiction, misuse, and dependence
    •Risk of more side effects in older adults
    •Can cause withdrawal if suddenly stopped
    •Should only be used short-term

  • Common Side Effects of Xanax vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    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.

    Common Side Effects for
    •Drowsiness
    •Confusion
    •Loss of coordination (clumsiness)

  • Warnings of Xanax vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    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
    Common Side Effects for
    •Risks while also taking opioids
    •Potential for addiction, misuse, dependence, and withdrawal
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Harm to babies

  • Prices with our coupons for Xanax vs. Chlordiazepoxide

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    Learn more about Chlordiazepoxide

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