A usual human emotion, anxiety is defined as tension, fear, or worrying about the future. A large number of people are getting affected by the anxiety problems. This has become one of the growing concerns in the USA. According to a recent study, approx. 17.6% adults of in the US aged between 18-24 have acknowledged symptoms of anxiety and depression in 2024. It is found to be more common in women as compared to men. we will discuss Alprazolam Vs Diazepam both medicine to reduce anxiety problem.
Anxiety extended for a long time in some people can show serious effects in increasing heart rate, nausea, difficulty sleeping, etc.
Therefore, to treat this issue, a doctor may prescribe either Alprazolam or Diazepam medicines. In this blog, we will learn about the difference between these two drugs, their uses, working, doses, side effects, and precautions.
Difference Between Alprazolam and Diazepam
Alprazolam
Alphrazolam is benzodiazepine class of drugs. It is an anti-anxiety medication used to treat anxiety disorders and panic attacks. It is a generic drug and an active ingredient in many brand medicines including Xanax, Xanax XR, and many more.
Alprazolam was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1981. It is a common drug of abuse and comes under Schedule IV controlled substance. Pfizer Pharmaceuticals (earlier Upjohn company) is the manufacturer of Alprazolam drugs in the USA.
Diazepam
Diazepam is also a benzodiazepine class of medicines that not only treats anxiety but also conditions like restless leg syndrome, muscle spasms (pain), insomnia, and seizures. It is also a generic drug and the main component in branded medicines like Valium, Valtoco, Diastat, and so on.
Valium is the most common drug that a doctor prescribes to patients experiencing anxiety disorders. Roche Pharmaceuticals is the manufacturer of Diazepam medicines in the USA. Diazepam was approved by the FDA in 2020 and classified Schedule IV controlled substance that has the potential for abuse and addiction.
Function
Alprazolam
Alprazolam works by binding the GABA A (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptor present in the central nervous system. When this receptor binds, it increases the frequency of chloride channel opening leading to hyperpolarization of chloride ions into the neurons. It enhances GABA activity by minimizing the transmission of neuron impulses in the brain.
This hyperpolarization decreases the neural activity in the brain. This results in reducing anxiety and panic symptoms.
Diazepam
Diazepam also works same as Alprazolam. The GABA receptors bind in various spots of the brain and spinal cord increasing the inhibitory effects of this receptor. It also opens the chloride channel so that the blood can flow into the nerves which calms the activity of the brain.
Uses
Alprazolam
Alprazolam is used to treat panic attacks and anxiety disorders. As per the doctor monitoring reports of your condition, take the dosages at the right time.
Take this drug only when it is prescribed by a certified doctor. Do not take it for a longer time as you may experience adverse effects in the body. Read and follow instructions as mentioned in the medication guide.
Diazepam
Diazepam should be consumed after consulting a healthcare professional. Do not take less or more of this drug, follow the doctor’s advice. Read all the medication sheets before consuming it. If you are taking the liquid form, then measure the quantity with a measuring spoon.
Doses and Dosages
Alprazolam
Doses
- Xanax : 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1mg and 2 mg
- Xanax XR: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg and 3 mg
- Niravam: 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg and 2 mg ( oral tablets)
Dosages
The dosages of these drugs will depend on your medical condition. But, the suggested starting dose is 0.25 mg which can be taken 2 to 3 times daily. The doctor may increase the dose as per examining your health condition.
Diazepam
Doses
- Valium: 1 mg, 2 mg, 2.5 mg 5 mg and 10 mg
- Diastat: 20 mg
- Diastat AcuDial: 20 mg
- Dizac: 2 mg, 5 mg and 10 mg
Dosages
The initial dosage of Diazepam for adults is 2 mg to 10 mg consuming two to four times daily. Based on withdrawal symptoms, it can be reduced to 5 mg. Patients aged 65 years or older can take the starting dose of 2 mg to 2.5 mg one or two times a day.
Side Effects
Alprazolam
The most common side effects of this drug are:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Irritability
- tiredness
- Fatigue
- Cough
- sore throat
- Constipation
- Changes in weight
Adverse side effects may include:
- Hallucinations
- Trouble walking
- Loss of memory
- Loss of voice
- Swelling
- Painful urination
- Fainting
- Slow heartbeats
Diazepam
Common side effects of Diazepam are:
- Headache
- Feeling tired
- Stomach upset
- Weigh gain
- Confusion
- Sleepiness
- Rash
- Euphoria
Severe side effects may include:
- Difficulty in breathing
- Respiratory depression
- Liver damage
- Unusual lightheadedness
- Insomnia
- Diarrhea
- Suicidal thoughts
- Loss of balance (ataxia)
- Double vision
Precautions
While consuming Alprazolam and Diazepam you have to follow some precautions to avoid more problems.
- Avoid smoking as it may decrease the drug concentration.
- Do not overdose on this as it has a risk of abuse and addiction even death.
- Inform your doctor if you are experiencing any type of allergic reaction.
- If you are suffering from severe breathing problems, liver disease, glaucoma, etc., then tell your doctor before prescribing this medicine.
- Avoid this drug if you are performing any type of activity that needs alertness.
- Pregnant women should avoid using this drug as it is harmful to an unborn baby.
- Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet, swallow it whole with a glass of water.
- Take the doses as per the age and health condition prescribed by the doctor.
- Do not stop taking this drug suddenly, it may cause withdrawal symptoms like change in behavior, psychotic reactions, etc.
- Read the label carefully while purchasing these drugs.
- Avoid eating those foods and beverages which are not allowed while consuming these medicines.
- Get regular checkups to monitor your progress after taking this drug.
