Presently, 40 million U.S. adults suffer from anxiety disorders. Frequently, doctors prescribe Xanax to control the overwhelming fear. However, Ativan is another oral sedative that stops panic. Though both are classified as benzodiazepines, the drugs have some unique traits. Below, the similarities and differences between Ativan vs Xanax are spelled out simply.
How Ativan and Xanax are Alike
First, both are very potent tranquilizers that relax your mind and muscles. Namely, Ativan and Xanax connect to brain receptors and disrupt fear signals in the nervous system. As such, both prescriptions make you drowsy and foggy. Thus, Ativan and Xanax users aren’t alert enough to safely drive. There are several shared effects, including:
- Low blood pressure and pulse
- Blurry vision and headache
- Dizziness and incoordination
- Restlessness and insomnia
- Nausea and constipation
- Trouble thinking and remembering
Second, Ativan and Xanax have the same addiction risks. Given that, doctors usually give small doses of 1-2 milligrams. Unfortunately, both can still cause dependence when taken long term. In particular, patients can experience painful withdrawal when they quit taking it. If that’s the case, then finding a Xanax or Ativan addiction rehab center is crucial.
Third, these benzodiazepines are both approved for adult use by the FDA. That being said, neither have been deemed safe for children or teens under 18. Plus, Ativan and Xanax are known to interact negatively with many other drugs. Specifically, mixing these drugs with alcohol or painkillers can cause death from overdose.
Differences Between Ativan vs Xanax
Of course, these two medicines aren’t identical though. For instance, the effects of Ativan often peak in six hours and last for 15. Meanwhile, Xanax kicks in quicker, typically within two hours, but lasts for just 12. Generally, the looks of Ativan vs Xanax are different. To explain, Ativan is a round white pill while Xanax is an oval blue or white pill.
Moreover, the medical uses for Ativan vs Xanax can vary. Expressly, Ativan is popularly used to relieve stress before surgery and chemotherapy. Sometimes, doctors prescribe Xanax for irritable bowel syndrome and seizures. Unlike Ativan, Xanax is available in an extended-release tablet. Yet, Xanax is traditionally much more costly than Ativan at the pharmacy.
Get Help for Benzodiazepine Addiction Now
Struggling with Ativan or Xanax use? Without delay, turn to Crestview Recovery for evidence based rehab treatment. Notably, we’re among the Pacific Northwest’s leading centers for getting sober. In fact, our clients benefit from outdoor recreation like snowboarding in the Portland area. Our trained clinicians will meet each client’s unique needs with custom programs, such as:
Don’t keep numbing your anxiety with addicting drugs. Instead, let Crestview Recovery treat your physical and mental health at the same time. Markedly, we have a low client-to-staff ratio to ensure you receive the close attention you deserve. So, contact us today at 8662620531 with your Ativan vs Xanax questions.
Since 2016, Dr. Merle Williamson, a graduate of Oregon Health Sciences University, has been the Medical Director at Crestview Recovery, bringing a rich background in addiction medicine from his time at Hazelden Treatment Center. He oversees outpatient drug and alcohol treatments, providing medical care, setting policies, detox protocols, and quality assurance measures. Before specializing in addiction medicine, he spent 25 years in anesthesiology, serving as Chair of Hospital Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee and Chief of Anesthesia at Kaiser Permanente. This experience gives him a unique perspective on treating prescription drug addiction.
