Valium vs Xanax: Difference, Strength, and Which Is Better?

Diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam (Xanax) are among the primary medications used to treat anxiety disorders. So why is Xanax vs. Valium an important conversation to be had? Well, they differ in potency and the kinds of conditions they treat. Your doctor will prescribe them accordingly, considering your medical history and symptoms. Knowing these differences will keep you informed regarding your treatment and empower you to take an active role in your recovery.

• Alprazolam (Xanax) and diazepam (Valium) are benzodiazepines used to treat anxiety.
• Xanax is stronger and shorter-acting than Valium, but Valium is slightly longer-acting.
• Valium is longer-acting and is also used to treat alcohol withdrawal, seizures, and other psychiatric emergencies.
• Xanax or Valium is prescribed depending on your symptoms, condition, and medical history.
• Xanax and Valium have a high potential for misuse and dependence, so they must be taken only as prescribed.
• Xanax or Valium misuse can be treated with psychotherapy, peer support, relapse prevention, sober living, and lifestyle modifications.

Benzodiazepines (“benzos”) are medications that are used to reduce nervous system activity. If you are wondering why this is - it is to treat certain symptoms and conditions, like anxiety disorders.

Benzodiazepines work by releasing a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) to slow down the activity of your nervous system. GABA reduces anxiety and enhances sleep, which can make benzodiazepines habit-forming. This is why, in countries like the U.S., they are Schedule IV controlled substances - this means you can only get them with a doctor’s prescription.

Two of the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines are Valium and Xanax. While they are similar, they differ slightly in what they treat and how they can affect you.

Valium is the brand name of the medication diazepam. It is a commonly prescribed benzodiazepine that is U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved to treat anxiety disorders. It is also used to treat:

• Alcohol withdrawal symptoms
• Seizures
• Muscle spasms
• Pre-anesthesia for surgery and other procedures

Valium boosts the chemical messenger, GABA, in the brain. This transmits signals in your body and reduces conditions like anxiety.

Xanax is the brand name of the medication alprazolam. Xanax is FDA-approved to treat:

• Anxiety
• Panic disorder
• Agoraphobia
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder

Xanax is among the commonly prescribed benzodiazepines, and it works by calming your nervous system.

The key difference between Xanax and Valium is as follows:

Yes, Xanax is stronger than Valium. For context, 0.5 mg of Xanax is equal to 5 mg of Valium. However, what we need to keep in mind here is that stronger does not mean better. Again, for context, Valium is quicker acting and its effects can last a little longer than Xanax.

Typically, Valium is prescribed 2-4 times a day, whereas Xanax is prescribed 3 times a day.

Whether Xanax vs. Valium is right for you - it depends on your symptoms, condition, and medical history. A licensed and trained mental health specialist will perform a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation (‘psych eval”) and prescribe the most effective treatment options for you, which will also involve psychotherapy, family therapy, peer support, and aftercare.

Xanax is only available in the oral form and is shorter-acting, so it is only used to treat anxiety. Meanwhile, Valium is used for treating other conditions like withdrawal, seizures, and other psychiatric emergencies.

Even after your doctor prescribes Xanax or Valium, depending on what is best for you, they will monitor and adjust your dosage depending on the efficacy, side effects, and other factors. This is known as medication management, which is crucial for your lasting recovery.

As both Xanax and Valium are benzos, there are some common side effects they can lead to:

• Drowsiness
• Lightheadedness
• Impaired coordination
• Impaired memory
• Irritability

Some side effects can be more severe. For instance, Valium can lead to:

• Mood and behavioral changes
• Depression
• Confusion
• Hallucinations
• Memory problems
• Speech problems
• Suicidal thoughts and ideation

If anybody is struggling with suicidal thoughts or ideation, call national helplines like 9-8-8 in the U.S. immediately. This can be a life-saving move.

Some of the serious side effects Xanax can lead to are:

• Fever
• Serious skin rash
• Shuffling walk
• Lasting tremors
• Heart arrhythmias

Xanax and Valium are controlled substances in countries like the U.S. because of their more serious risks, like dependence and withdrawal.

Both Xanax and Valium are habit-forming, which means that you can become dependent on these drugs within a few days or weeks. Dependence can make you feel like you have to take these medications to feel physically and psychologically normal. As your tolerance levels increase, the risk of dependence will also increase.

Withdrawal, on the other hand, refers to the unpleasant symptoms you experience if you suddenly reduce or stop taking these drugs. Here are some of the common withdrawal symptoms:

• Increased feelings of anxiety
• Sleeping troubles
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Stomach cramps

If you feel you need adjustments or if it is time to stop taking these drugs, you need to seek your doctor’s advice. Do not make any decisions on your own.

While Valium and Xanax are among the most commonly prescribed benzos in the U.S. and the rest of the world - they are not for everyone. If anybody is struggling with the following, it is crucial to avoid Valium and Xanax:

• Depression
• Alcohol use disorder
• Sleep apneas
• Glaucoma
• Muscle weakness
• Breathing difficulties
• Lung disease
• Kidney disease

If you have been prescribed Xanax or Valium, you need to be open and honest with your doctor so that they can provide the safest and most effective journey toward recovery.

Xanax and Valium do not only come with warnings for certain people, but there are some food and drug interactions you must avoid if you have been prescribed either of these.

For instance, grapefruit blocks an enzyme known as CYP3A4, which is responsible for breaking down drugs like Valium and Xanax. So, you need to avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice if you have been prescribed either of these medications.

Similarly, Xanax and Valium can interact with other substances and lead to severe consequences. The substances or drugs you need to avoid are:

• Alcohol
• Antidepressants
• Other benzodiazepines
• Anti-seizures medication
• Tranquilizers
• Pain medications like opioids

So, if you are consuming any other substances or supplements, please be open and honest with your doctor.

Substance use disorder is a serious condition - whether it is to psychoactive substances or prescription medication like Xanax and Valium.

If you or a loved one is struggling to control Xanax or Valium use, personalized treatment options involving psychotherapy, peer support, relapse prevention, sober living, and lifestyle modifications are available for you. Please reach out to Design for Recovery at (424) 242-1130 to learn more.