Valium vs. Xanax

The difference between Xanax (alprazolam) and Valium (diazepam), starts at their potency and goes through a range of other factors. When comparing Xanax vs Valium, it is important to realize that although the perform the same core function, of calming the person down, the drugs and mechanisms that they use to accomplish this are very different. The biggest difference is the potency, where about 20 mg of Valium is equivalent to about 1 mg of Xanax. Beyond this the onset of medications and lasting effects are starkly different and each of these anti-anxiety medications is great for its intended purpose.

The difference between Xanax and Valium

There are factors beyond the individual drug interactions with each person, and for the most part Valium is slower acting and takes time to build up sufficient levels in the blood to be most effective, where the calming effects of Xanax are realized often in less than 20 minutes; also wearing off much faster. For this difference between Xanax and Valium, Xanax is generally used for panic attacks and immediate short-term relief, where Valium is a longer-term slow acting medication.

When you are deciding, with your healthcare professional, which medication to take Xanax vs Valium, it is important to look at you anxiety attacks and if they are acute or more of a steady build throughout the day. By taking the time to sufficiently look at Valium vs Xanax, with a trained professional, will give you the peace of mind knowing that you are taking the correct medication for your situation. It is important to discuss any side effects that you may be experiencing, as you may need to switch to the other, or even another, anti-anxiety medication based on how your body reacts, or doesn’t react.

While you debate and try to compare Valium vs Xanax for your situation, it is important to note that these are only two of many different variations of medications that are approved to work for calming anxiety. Talking to your doctor about all of the options and working with them to determine the best solution for your situation will take time but lead to the best results. The more open that you can be with your physician about the side effects and how they make you feel the better they can adjust and try to optimize it for you. Never try to adjust the dosage amount or frequency on your own as both of these medications can lead to withdrawal symptoms that could be life threatening. Xanax vs Valium is a personal preference and reactions may vary.