Posted by Cam W. on April 12, 2000, at 20:13:28
In reply to ativan vs. valium vs. xanax, posted by lynny2 on April 12, 2000, at 19:24:25
> What are the major differences between these 3. i know they belong to same category?
Lynny - These belong to the benzodiazepine family of drugs. They all bind to the GABA receptor complex and make it easier for GABA to open the receptor's chloride ion channel, hyperpolarizing the neuron, making it less excitable and less likely to fire. Benzodiazepines are used as sedative/huypnotics (sleeping pills), anti-anxiety meds (anxiolytics), anti-panic agents, and anticonvulsants (anti-epileptics). The primary differences between all benzodiazepines are in their pharmacokinetic properties (their absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion).
V = Valium (diazepam); A = Ativan (lorazepam); X = Xanax (alprazolam)
Indications (Uses):
V - anxiolytic, preoperative sedative, anticonvulsant.
A - anxiolytic, preoperative sedative.
X - anxiolytic, panic disorder.Equivalent Doses:
V - 5mg
A - 1mg
X - 0.5mgApproximate Half-life:
V - 100h
A - 10-20h
X - 12-15hOnset of Action
V - < 1h
A - 1-3h
X - 1-3hAre Metabolites Active?
V - yes
A - no
X - yesMetabolism:
V - oxidation
A - conjugation
X - oxidationDid I miss anything you would like to know?
- Cam W.
poster:Cam W.
thread:29766
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000411/msgs/29773.html