Knowing the differences and similarities between Ativan and Xanax can be beneficial for those who find themselves struggling with these substances. How are they similar and what are the effects? These are valid questions.
Both Ativan and Xanax have legitimate medical uses. However, just as with many other prescription medications, they both can cause dependence. Anyone who is struggling with these substances should seek professional care to overcome the struggle.
Ativan And Xanax Similarities
Anyone wondering about Ativan versus Xanax should understand that both substances are benzodiazepine medications. Benzos can treat seizures, anxiety and panic disorders.
These medications work as central nervous system (CNS) depressants. This means they slow brain activity and help to alleviate anxiety and panic disorders.
Ativan Overview
Ativan is the name brand for the generic drug lorazepam. It is a medication available through a prescription from a doctor to help treat seizures, anxiety and panic disorders. It works by enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA, which can result in a calming effect.
Ativan can result in dependence. People can develop withdrawal symptoms with long-term use if abruptly stop using it,
Xanax Overview
Xanax is the brand name for the generic drug alprazolam. Similar to Ativan, Xanax treats anxiety and panic disorders. It increases the production of GABA in the brain. Due to its fast-acting qualities, it is meant for short-term relief.
Because Xanax, like Ativan, can result in dependence and withdrawal. Therefore, those taking this medication should do so under monitoring from a medical professional.
What Are Their Uses?
Ativan versus Xanax are both similar medications. They’re both benzodiazepine medications that work by enhancing the production of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain. It can result in calming effects.
This is a positive effect for those who struggle with panic and anxiety disorders. These medications help to alleviate the symptoms of these conditions. People who struggle with anxiety and panic disorders often have difficulty completing daily tasks. As such, they use these medications to help alleviate the symptoms and be able to lead a more normal lifestyle.
Which is Stronger?
When it comes to Ativan versus Xanax, and which is stronger, there is no real difference in strength. Both medications are dosed differently by how long they last in the body. They are also dosed by how quickly they take effect.
As an example, Ativan has a longer onset time frame. However, its effects also last longer, making it effective for longer-lasting relief from anxiety symptoms. Xanax, on the other hand, has a quicker onset. As a result, the effects wear off quicker making it ideal for use in relief from panic attacks. Both medications produce similar effects and can result in dependence and withdrawal symptoms when discontinued.
How Ativan and Xanax Affect the Brain
Both Ativan and Xanax work by increasing the production of GABA in the brain. They bind to GABA-A in the brain, which results in lowered excitability. The calming effect results in anxiolytic, sedative, and muscle relaxing, making them helpful in managing the disorders that they treat.
However, both medications, with prolonged use, can result in dependence and make it extremely difficult to stop taking them. Tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms can occur with prolonged use. Hence, it is vital one practices caution and maintains medical monitoring when taking them.
Effects of Both Ativan and Xanax
Ativan versus Xanax both have effects on the body of the person taking them. Understanding how these drugs affect a person is vital for safety while using them.
Ativan Effects
The effects of Ativan can result in drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired balance and coordination. In addition to these effects, this medication can also result in headache, nausea, dry mouth, blurred vision and muscle weakness. Those using this drug should exercise caution as these effects can be dangerous.
Xanax Effects
Similar to Ativan, Xanax can also result in drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and blurred vision. It can also produce effects like slurred speech, low blood pressure, memory problems and insomnia.
The effects of this drug can also include developing a tolerance and dependence. However, this will make stopping of use extremely difficult, as withdrawal symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable.
Ativan and Xanax Withdrawal
Ativan versus Xanax withdrawal symptoms are not very different from one drug to the next. Both can result in tremors, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Other potential withdrawal symptoms can include disorientation, confusion, seizures, and potential heart issues.
Those who are trying to stop using benzodiazepine medications should seek professional help. It can provide a safe and healing environment to overcome dependence on these drugs. Medical monitoring is crucial to preventing complications from benzo withdrawal.
Overcoming Addiction
Struggling with addiction is a challenge that many people face on a daily basis. Struggling with benzo addiction is just as life-threatening as other substances. Ending the addiction can be just as difficult. If you or a loved one are struggling with benzos like Xanax and Ativan, there is hope.
At Brentwood Springs we offer personalized care plans for individuals to beat their addiction and begin a healthier lifestyle.
Reach out today and begin utilizing the benefits Brentwood Springs has to offer.
