Nowadays, many individuals are experiencing common health issues like sleep and anxiety disorders. However, several medications are available in the market for treating these common problems, including the medicines from the group of drugs called benzodiazepines. Etizolam and Alprazolam both medicines are similar in their uses and mechanisms. Xanax is a brand name of alprazolam. The brand names for the generic drug etizolam include Etizola, Etilaam, and Sedekopan.
In this blog, we will learn about two drugs ‘Etizolam and Alprazolam’ Both drugs have a potential for abuse and can lead to physical and psychological dependence if the patient uses them improperly or for long periods. Now, understand the difference between Etizolam vs Alprazolam.
Difference Between Etizolam and Alprazolam
What is Etizolam?
Etizolam drug belongs to the benzodiazepine class. It is primarily used for its sedative and anti-anxiety properties. This medicine acts on the central nervous system by increasing the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This action results in calming effects on the patient’s brain and the body, making it useful for treating conditions like anxiety disorders, panic attacks, and insomnia.
Due to its sedative effects and potential for abuse, Etizolam is considered a controlled substance in several countries where it is available by prescription only. It’s important to understand that misuse or overuse of Etizolam can lead to dependency and withdrawal symptoms. For this reason, it should be used under the guidance of a doctor or health care provider and according to prescribed guidelines.
What is Alprazolam?
Alprazolam is a prescription-only medication. It belongs to the class of drugs called benzodiazepines. It is mainly used for treating anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and anxiety associated with depression. Alprazolam works by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter in the brain that has a calming effect.
This medicine sold under the brand name Xanax, Alprazolam is known for its fast-acting properties, making it effective for sudden episodes of anxiety or panic attacks. It is available in two forms, including immediate-release and extended-release formulations for longer-lasting effects.
Despite its therapeutic benefits, Alprazolam carries a risk of tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms if the patient uses it for long periods. Because of these risks, it is commonly prescribed for short-term and it is important to follow the prescribing doctor’s instructions carefully.
Uses of Etizolam and Alprazolam
Uses of Etizolam
Here are some common uses of Etizolam drug
- Anxiety Disorders – This drug is prescribed for the treatment of various anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. It helps reduce symptoms like excessive worry, nervousness, and tension.
- Panic Attacks – Etizolam is useful in the acute management of panic attacks. It can help reduce the intensity and frequency of panic attacks by calming the central nervous system.
- Insomnia – Due to its sedative properties, Etizolam can be used to treat insomnia. It helps induce sleep and improves sleep quality in individuals who are experiencing insomnia.
Uses of Alprazolam
It is FDA-approved for treating generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and anxiety associated with depression.
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder – Alprazolam is also prescribed for treating various anxiety disorders. This drug helps in reducing symptoms like nervousness, excessive worry, and tension.
- Panic disorder – It is also used for the treatment of panic disorder, which involves regular unexpected panic attacks. Alprazolam can help reduce the intensity and frequency of panic attacks.
- Other Anxiety-Related Conditions – In addition to GAD and panic disorder, alprazolam may sometimes be prescribed for other anxiety-related conditions, such as social anxiety disorder and specific phobias.
Dose and Dosages
Dose and Dosages of Etizolam
Etizolam medicine comes in tablet form and is available in several strengths such as:
- 0.25 mg
- 0.5 mg
- 1 mg
- 2 mg
The usual starting dose is 0.5 mg to 1 mg twice daily. And, the maximum dose depends on the patient’s health condition and their anxiety levels.
Dose and Dosages of Alprazolam
Alprazolam is available in the form of oral tablet and comes in many strengths, including:
- 0.25 mg
- 0.5 mg
- 1 mg
- 2 mg
The starting recommended dose of Alprazolam medicine is 0.25 to 0.5 mg three times per day. The maximum recommended dose depends on the severity of the condition and individual response to the drug.
Side Effects
Side Effects of Etizolam
If the patient is experiencing these following side effects after consuming Etizolam drug, they need immediate medical help.
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Bloody nose
- Seizures
- Skin rash
- Fever
- Irritability
- Trouble breathing
- Swelling
- Cough
Side Effects of Alprazolam
The following are the side effects of Alprazolam:
- Drowsiness
- Sleepiness
- Trouble concentrating
- Blurred vision
- Changes in behavior
- Body aches
- Dark urine
- Fainting
- Joint pain
- Itching or rash on the skin
- Shivering
- Stomach pain
- Sneezing
- Yellow eyes or skin
- Chest pain
Precautions
- If patients have any medical history they must tell the doctor about their medical condition before starting the treatment.
- Never stop taking these drugs immediately, it can cause serious withdrawal symptoms which may take a lot of time to recover.
- Pregnant women must avoid these anxiety-related drugs or instead, they can consult with a doctor before taking the drug.
- Do not take any other anti-depressant drug while taking these drugs.
- Keep the medicine out of children’s reach.
- Do not perform those tasks that require attentiveness after taking the medicine.
