difference between ativan and xanax

Does anyone know what the main differences are between ativan and xanax. I've been taking xanax a while, but never have taken ativan. Is there much difference?

Good question. I was just taken off Xanax because it was not realy doing it for my anxiety, and my p-doc put me Ativan instead. Take 1 pill three times daily as needed. 1 mg strength pills. I just got them today. I guess since I have only taken 2, I don't know yet. It was a bad day for my anxiety.

hmmm. I don't know the answer to that either and that is a darn good question!!!! Anyone know? hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm?

Please let me know how it's going after a couple more days. I see my pdoc tomorrow and am considering asking her about it. She doesn't seem to open to me taking any benzos though.

My understanding is that the primary difference has to do with the half-life of the two meds. Xanax works fast, for a short period of time. Ativan works more slowly, but for longer. My pdoc switched me from xanax to ativan some time ago. With xanax I was finding that I would take it when I was feeling panicky and it was great, but then it would wear off suddenly and I was still panicky! This doesn't happen for me with ativan. My pdoc agreed that what was happening was common with xanax...especially the wearing off suddenly part. In my opinion, this is part of why xanax seems to be a bit more addictive then ativan.