Anxiety and sleep difficulties are a fairly common problem across the United States. Those who seek treatment are often prescribed benzodiazepines, a class of drugs that induce relaxation. These medications are highly effective in reducing symptoms, but they are also tempting to misuse, which can lead to an addiction over the long term.
If you or someone in your life is struggling to quit benzos, it is time to get the expert support you need at Right Step Hill Country. Our benzo addiction treatment program addresses the needs of the whole person through a combination of behavioral and holistic therapies as well as medication. Contact us at 1.844.675.1628 to learn more.
Types of Benzos
Benzodiazepines, also known as benzos, belong to a class of psychoactive drugs that induce sedation or relaxation. They are most often prescribed to address the following:
- Anxiety disorders
- Panic disorders
- Insomnia
- Muscle spasms
- Seizure disorders
- Alcohol withdrawal symptoms
Some of the most widely prescribed types of benzos are:
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Temazepam (Restoril)
Available in capsules, tablets, and injectables, some are fast-acting and prescribed for short-term use, while others are long-acting and taken over a long period.
Comparing Ativan vs. Xanax
Not all benzodiazepines are the same, and determining the most suitable benzo will depend on your unique health concern. Here’s how two more popular benzodiazepines, Ativan and Xanax, are similar and distinct from one another:
Ativan
Ativan, the brand name of the drug lorazepam, is widely prescribed for its sedative and anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects to treat anxiety disorders and as a short-term treatment for insomnia. Ativan is available in both tablet and injectable form, although the oral form is more commonly prescribed since it is more convenient.
Xanax
Xanax, the brand name of the drug alprazolam, is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It is available in immediate-release and extended-release forms. The immediate-release version is more commonly prescribed since many people use the drug to prevent or mitigate the symptoms of an anxiety or panic attack.
Ativan vs. Xanax
Although Ativan and Xanax serve similar functions, there are a few key differences between them:
- Onset and duration – The effects of Xanax can be felt within 30 minutes, while Ativan can take up to an hour. However, the anti-anxiety benefits of Ativan tend to last longer.
- Potency – Xanax is considered to be a stronger benzodiazepine than Ativan. Its effects may be more intense and rapid, but this also makes it a higher risk for benzo abuse and dependence.
- Prescribed use – Xanax is mostly prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders. Although Ativan can treat these conditions, it is also prescribed for a broader range of conditions, such as insomnia.
- Side effects – Ativan and Xanax have similar side effects, like dizziness, confusion, and drowsiness.
If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, panic, insomnia, or other conditions that may benefit from the help of benzodiazepines, speak to your healthcare provider about which of these medications may be right for you.
Recognizing Benzo Abuse
Benzodiazepines can be effective in treating anxiety, panic, insomnia, and similar disorders, but they also carry the risk of abuse and addiction. Here are some signs to be aware of if you suspect a loved one may be abusing benzos:
- Developing a tolerance – The usual drug dose will not provide the desired effect, and the individual will require larger doses.
- Doctor shopping – Attempting to obtain multiple benzo prescriptions by scheduling appointments with different doctors is a common sign of substance misuse.
- Withdrawal symptoms – Experiencing withdrawal symptoms like irritability, worsened anxiety, or insomnia when not taking benzos can indicate a dependence on the drug.
Benzo abuse can lead to respiratory issues, memory problems, cognitive impairment, mood disorders, financial problems, and an increased risk of injuries and accidents. If you recognize the above signs in someone you care about, it is time to seek the support of a benzo addiction treatment program.
Begin Treatment at Right Step Hill Country Today
At Right Step Hill Country, we understand that anxiety, panic disorders, and insomnia can be debilitating, and benzodiazepines can help you gain better control of your symptoms. But if you’re suffering from an addiction, you need professional help to get back on track. Learn how we can help by calling us at 1.844.675.1628 or submitting our online contact form.