Clonazepam is better to treat panic disorder than Xanax. The US Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) does not recommend using benzodiazepines for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as the medication can “cover-up” the feelings or trauma, and you may not ever learn how to manage your trauma.
Commonly prescribed Alprazolam alternative antidepressant medications used to help with anxiety include Zoloft (sertraline), Prozac (fluoxetine), or Lexapro (escitalopram).
Other commonly prescribed drugs of this class include diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), clonazepam (Klonopin), temazepam (Restoril), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), and midazolam (Versed).
One isn't better than the other — the best choice for you will depend on your symptoms and medical history. If you have questions or concerns about Xanax or Ativan, please reach out to a pharmacist or healthcare provider.
This means that it is metabolized in the body slower than Xanax, and that it also lasts in the body far longer than Xanax does. Because of this, a dose of Klonopin can mitigate panic or anxiety in a person far longer than a dose of Xanax can, since Xanax is much quicker to wear off.
With sustained levels of anxiety, long-acting benzodiazepines such as diazepam and clorazepate are usually preferred, while episodic anxiety normally responds best to shorter-acting drugs such as oxazepam or lorazepam.
The strongest dose of Xanax is a 3 mg extended-release tablet. However, these pills are typically triangular and green. The strongest and most common dosage of a Xanax bar is 2 mg.
How long does it take Xanax to work? For most patients, Xanax will start to work within one to two hours. These other treatments may take a few weeks to take effect, though. So Xanax and other benzodiazepines are sometimes used as a “bridge” until other treatments can have a chance to work.
Halcion. Halcion is one of the fastest acting of all Benzos, and it is also processed by the body faster than other Benzos. The drug is prescribed to treat anxiety and insomnia, but it can be highly addictive.
It is a drug called Xanax, one of the most popular benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are complex drugs that interact with neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA. They cause an increase in serotonin and dopamine levels while also increasing GABA activity.
Zoloft and Xanax may have similar effects on mental health conditions and similar side effects, but they are different drugs. Zoloft is meant to be taken long-term, whereas Xanax is a short-term medication. Xanax is a controlled substance and can be habit-forming.
SSRIs and SNRIs are often the first-line treatment for anxiety. Common SSRI brands are Celexa, Lexapro, Luvox, Paxil, and Zoloft. Common SNRI brands are Pristiq, Cymbalta, and Effexor XR.
Benzodiazepines for anxiety
Drugs such as Xanax (alprazolam), Klonopin (clonazepam), Valium (diazepam), and Ativan (lorazepam) work quickly, typically bringing relief within 30 minutes to an hour. That makes them very effective when taken during a panic attack or another overwhelming anxiety episode.
Xanax may be taken with or without food. Avoid operating machinery, driving, or performing tasks that require mental alertness while taking Xanax. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine. The lowest effective dose of Xanax should be used for the shortest time possible.
Xanax (alprazolam) is a benzodiazepine and is used to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and anxiety caused by depression. Xanax XR Tablets are usually prescribed once daily, preferably in the morning.
As a Benzodiazepine, Xanax acts on the brain and central nervous system to produce a calming effect and ease anxiety symptoms. It is fast-acting, which is helpful for someone who is suddenly experiencing anxiety and needs relief quickly.
Xanax is the brand name for a fast-acting benzodiazepine medication, alprazolam. This medication is prescribed for the short-term treatment of generalized anxiety, panic disorders, anxiety associated with depression, and social anxiety disorder.
Adults—At first, 0.5 milligram (mg) 3 times a day. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 10 mg per day. Older adults—At first, 0.25 mg 2 or 3 times a day.
Xanax is FDA-approved for short relief of generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder only. Signs of an anxiety disorder may include: Nervousness, restlessness, or tension.
Herbal Alternatives to Xanax
These include feverfew, passionflower, valerian, and lemon balm. These herbal remedies have been used for centuries as sleep aids and to bring about a state of relaxation. But of all the naturally relaxing herbs, two are standouts for anxiety.
Physical Dependence Over time, your body adapts to the use of Alprazolam and other benzodiazepines. This adaptation can actually cause the medicine to stop working.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Generally safe with a low risk of serious side effects, SSRI antidepressants are typically recommended as the first choice of medications to treat panic attacks.