A member asked:

Can i just switch from 0.5mg of xanax (alprazolam) to 1mg ativan without any problems? been on xanax (alprazolam) at hs for a long time. md thinks i need something longer act.

3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dr. Pamela Pappas answered

Specializes in Psychiatry

Benzos: The half life of oral Ativan is 8-24 hours; that of xanax (alprazolam) is 6-27 hours. If your doctor wants a longer acting benzo, Clonazepam half life is 19-60 hours. Might want to discuss this with your doctor.

Answered 6/24/2014

5.3k views

Thank

Why the switch?: I'm unsure if you're asking if you can switch w/o any adverse effects or it's more "dr. Wants to change rx" question. Either way, these are (short acting) benzos & may help you fall asleep, but not stay asleep. You may also wish to google "benzo equivalency chart" and you can see what's=to what.There are more modern drugs used worldwide for sleep tx. (z-drugs) is your rx for anxiety or insomnia?

Answered 11/6/2020

5.3k views

Thank

Related Questions

Sponsored Content
HealthTap Medical Group does not endorse products or services. Sponsored content revenues support our mission to make health information free and accessible to all.Learn more