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Benzodiazepines like Ativan (lorazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam) are very common and usually are prescribed to treat disorders related to anxiety, panic attacks and stress. Since these drugs are beneficial in alleviating psychological tension. Learning about these drugs’ impact on the body and brain will enable one to control their usage. To simplify the most typical side effects, the article presents them in two groups: external reactions that occur shortly after taking a drug, and long-term results of its constant use.
Ativan vs Xanax Short-Term Side Effects
Short-term side effects tend to occur after taking a few doses. Such immediate effects take place due to the impact benzodiazepines exert on the central nervous system. Most individuals experience mild symptoms, whereas others may exhibit more pronounced changes in their body or behavior..
- Drowsiness
One of the most frequent side effects of both Ativan and Xanax is drowsiness. Xanax dosage has a faster onset of action and can induce drowsiness within 15 to 30 minutes, which often makes it ideal for acute panic situations. Ativan has a slower onset but lasts longer, resulting in more prolonged sedation. This can make Ativan more suitable for generalized anxiety or sleep-related issues.
- Unsteady Balance
Not a few individuals claim to have experienced dizziness or lightheadedness within several minutes following Ativan or Xanax consumption. It is caused by the fact that the drug pacifies the brain as well as the muscles, and there is occasional reduction in blood pressure. Muscle relaxation is part of how these drugs work.
Ativan causes a smoother, steadier feeling of muscle relaxation, which may be less likely to interfere with daily activities. In contrast, Xanax’s rapid effect may lead to a sudden sense of heaviness in the limbs, which some users describe as uncomfortable or disorienting during the day.
- Blurred Vision
There is a possibility that users may experience changes in their vision after initiating either Ativan or Xanax. These can be hazy vision, trouble focusing the eyes or that the eyes are heavy. Such vision problems are normally temporary, yet they may be distracting and alarming. They are caused by the effects of this kind of medication on neural pathways that govern visual processing.
Ativan vs Xanax Long-Term Side Effects
Ativan or Xanax also renders more severe consequences when one continues to use it in the long run without proper supervision. Such side effects are gradual and may culminate in physical or psychological dependency.
- Memory Loss
Continued use of such drugs as Xanax and Ativan might disrupt short-term memory and cognitive abilities. Xanax users often report short-term forgetfulness, especially when taking higher doses or combining it with alcohol. Ativan can also impair memory, but it usually happens with prolonged use or when used before medical procedures like anesthesia. Xanax’s strong, fast effect on the brain’s memory center explains this different period.
- Physical Dependence
Dependency is a critical risk with benzodiazepines. Xanax has a shorter half-life, which means it leaves the system quickly and may lead to more intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms if doses are missed. Ativan, with its longer half-life, causes a slower, less intense withdrawal, but dependence can still develop. Patients on Xanax often require a more gradual tapering process compared to those on Ativan.
- Emotional Numbness
Ativan and Xanax use may cause the development of emotional bluntness. Xanax is often linked with emotional numbness, where users report feeling detached or less interested in life events. Ativan, although capable of producing similar symptoms, is less commonly associated with emotional disconnection. This is likely due to the slower onset and more consistent mood regulation with Ativan.
- Sleep Disturbances
These drugs are commonly prescribed to individuals with sleep disorders, but with prolonged usage, they may bring about disturbed sleep patterns. Benzodiazepines can alter the normal sleep pattern of the brain in the long run. 15.9% of patients using Ativan for anxiety may experience drowsiness as a side effect. 41% of people taking Xanax for anxiety and 76.8% of people taking it for panic disorder may experience sleepiness as a result of the medication.
