What is the difference between diazepam and alprazolam?

The main difference between diazepam and alprazolam is their half -lives. This is the measure of how long their action lasts in the body. Diazepam has a longer half -life than an alprazolam, which means it affects the body for a longer period of time, while the alprazolam has its effect on a shorter interval. Diazepam is referred to as long -acting and alprazolam as intermediate. They are sedative hypnotics mainly used to treat anxiety in the short term. Benzodiazepines can also be used for preoperative sedation, treatment of alcohol, treatment of some seizures and as a muscle relaxant. Long -term use of both drugs is discouraged due to their addictive potential, psychologically and physically.

Diazepam and alprazolam share a common mechanism of action on the central nervous system (CNS). They affect GABA receptors in the brain and cause anxiolytic or soothing Effect. However, the therapeutic doses of diazepam and alprazolam differ to achieve the same effect. In alprazolam, 0.5 mg is approximately equivalent to 5Mg Diazepam. This may be more susceptible to interactions with drugs with other medicines, especially those that are also metabolized by the liver. Any accompanying medicines should be discussed with the prescriber of the doctor. Some other medicines in the benzodiazepine class such as Lorazepam and Oxazepam are not metabolized in the liver.

Benzodiazepines are available in most countries only for prescription because of their highly addictive nature. Diazepam is available as an oral or injection product. Alprazolam is only available as an oral product, both in the form of normal release and in the form of permanent release. Thedávka and the duration of both diazepam and alprazolam will be determined by the prescription by the prescription. The lowest effective dose after the shortest time will be given.

Since diazepam is available as a injection and alprazolam, diazepam can be used in acute situations. They are one of themTreatment of epilepticus status where rapid onset of effect is required. The absorption of the injection route tends to be faster than oral administration and can be preferred in life -threatening situations.

Patients depend on benzodiazepines who try to stop using them may occur with withdrawal symptoms. Exhaust symptoms appear faster in alprazolam acting in the middle acting than the long -acting diazepam. Diazepam is sometimes used during the collection period, allowing reduction in withdrawal symptoms. Diazepam then slows down slowly. The benzodiazepines should only be made under a close medical view.