Lorazepam and Xanax (alprazolam) are both benzodiazepines used to treat anxiety. They work in a similar way and are both effective, but there are key differences between them that may affect how they’re prescribed and used.
What’s the Difference Between Lorazepam and Xanax?
Both medications are effective for short-term anxiety treatment, but they behave differently in the body:
- Xanax acts faster than lorazepam but doesn’t last as long – around 4 to 6 hours compared to 8 hours for lorazepam.
- Xanax’s effects kick in quickly but also fade faster.
- Lorazepam lasts longer in the body and has a steadier effect over time.
- Xanax is more affected by individual factors like race, liver or kidney problems, age, and body weight. Lorazepam tends to be more stable across different people.
What Are Lorazepam and Xanax?
Although both are benzodiazepines, their chemical structures are different. These differences influence how they work and how long they last in the body.
Which One Works Faster?
- Xanax starts working faster – it reaches peak levels in the body within 1 to 2 hours.
- Lorazepam takes a bit longer – about 2 hours to reach its peak effect.
- The effects of Xanax last about 4 to 6 hours, while lorazepam lasts around 8 hours – sometimes longer in certain people.
How Much Xanax Equals 1mg of Lorazepam?
According to benzodiazepine equivalency charts:
- 0.5mg of Xanax ≈ 1mg of lorazepam
However, this is just a rough guide. Your body may process Xanax differently due to:
- Ethnicity (especially if of Asian descent)
- Health issues (like liver or kidney disease, alcohol use, or old age)
These meds should only be used short-term and under a doctor’s supervision.
How Do Lorazepam and Xanax Work?
Both Xanax and lorazepam increase the calming effect of GABA, a neurotransmitter in the brain. This reduces nerve activity and helps:
- Calm anxiety
- Relax muscles
- Aid sleep
- Stop seizures
- Create a short-term memory block (useful before surgeries)
Because of their slightly different chemical make-up, they may affect people differently:
- Lorazepam may be more suitable for seizures and longer-lasting calming effects.
- Xanax tends to work faster but wears off sooner.
Which One Is Better for Anxiety?
Studies have found:
- Both drugs are equally effective at treating anxiety.
- Side effects are similar, though Xanax may cause less mental confusion.
Which One Is More Addictive?
Both are high-risk for dependence, especially if used long-term.
- Short-acting drugs like Xanax and lorazepam are harder to stop than longer-acting ones like diazepam.
- Both quickly reach the brain, making them more reinforcing and harder to quit.
- Xanax withdrawal is often described as more intense, so doctors tend to be extra cautious with it.
Note: These two drugs are not usually prescribed together.
FAQs
Can I take lorazepam and Xanax at the same time?
No. Taking both can increase the risk of serious side effects like extreme drowsiness, breathing problems, or even coma.
Which one is safer long-term?
Neither should be used long-term due to the risk of dependence. If long-term treatment is needed, a doctor may consider alternatives or use a longer-acting benzodiazepine.
Is lorazepam less addictive than Xanax?
Both carry a high risk of addiction, but Xanax withdrawal is often considered more severe.
Can these medications affect memory?
Yes, both can cause short-term memory issues, especially when taken in higher doses or with other sedatives.
Are there safer alternatives to Xanax or lorazepam for anxiety?
Yes. Non-benzodiazepine options like SSRIs or CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) are often used for long-term anxiety management.
Can these medications be used for sleep?
They can help with sleep, but aren’t usually recommended as long-term sleep aids due to the risk of dependence.
How long can you take lorazepam or Xanax safely?
Ideally, no more than 2 to 4 weeks. Longer use increases the risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms.
