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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Is The Difference Between Xanax And Valium?

What is the difference between Xanax and Valium?. I take Xanax (1/2 mg) occasionally (1 to 2 times per week) for anxiety...helps my mood and often to get some rest such as a daytime nap on weeked. I would like a prescription to either Canal or Valium , depending which is best for me
Thu, 28 Apr 2016
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi & Welcome.

Valium (Diazepam) and Xanax (Alprazolam) are both Benzodiazepines.
Although they’re in the same drug class, there are unique differences between Diazepam and Alprazolam.

Alprazolam takes effect quickly metabolizes quickly, so it doesn’t stay active as long and thus has a short duration of action. It is mainly used to treat conditions like sleep disturbances, generalized anxiety disorder, with or without agoraphobia (fear of crowds or certain places), anxiety associated with depression & panic disorder.

Whereas Diazepam takes slower to take effect & has a long duration of action. It is mainly used to treat anxiety disorders, acute alcohol withdrawal,
skeletal muscle spasm, seizure disorders & chronic sleep disorder.

Since Diazepam has a long duration of action it is likely to cause more drowsiness, lack of concentration, and impaired coordination I would advise you to take Alprazolam for the treatment of anxiety which seems to be best for you.
Hope this will help you.
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What Is The Difference Between Xanax And Valium?

Hi & Welcome. Valium (Diazepam) and Xanax (Alprazolam) are both Benzodiazepines. Although they’re in the same drug class, there are unique differences between Diazepam and Alprazolam. Alprazolam takes effect quickly metabolizes quickly, so it doesn’t stay active as long and thus has a short duration of action. It is mainly used to treat conditions like sleep disturbances, generalized anxiety disorder, with or without agoraphobia (fear of crowds or certain places), anxiety associated with depression & panic disorder. Whereas Diazepam takes slower to take effect & has a long duration of action. It is mainly used to treat anxiety disorders, acute alcohol withdrawal, skeletal muscle spasm, seizure disorders & chronic sleep disorder. Since Diazepam has a long duration of action it is likely to cause more drowsiness, lack of concentration, and impaired coordination I would advise you to take Alprazolam for the treatment of anxiety which seems to be best for you. Hope this will help you.