Nature has built humans into different animals. The way our brain works and handles things are just marvelous in terms. The brain and the central nervous system are the basis of human intelligence evolution, and sometimes, these complex systems get disturbed by nuisances like Anxiety, seizures, addictions, etc. Various medicines are developed to cope with this problem, but the confusion lies in which medicine is superior to treating the condition. Let's clear your doubt.
A Small Intro Of Valium Vs. Ativan
Valium and Ativan seem quite similar medicines due to their drug class. These medicines belong to the Benzodiazepine class, which is used to treat Anxiety, seizure, and other pain-related conditions. Valium is used for seizures, Anxiety, insomnia, alcohol withdrawal, etc., and Ativan is used for Anxiety, Insomnia, Chemotherapy, panic disorders, etc.
Thus we can say there are similarities, but what makes them different?
Valium Vs. Ativan - The Actual Answer
Valium and Ativan are benzos. Valium stays for a longer time in the body as compared to Ativan. Valium has a half-life of 48 hours and gets wholly eliminated in 9-10 days.
Ativan's half-life is about 14 hours which is the lowest compared to Valium, and it is pushed out of the system in 5 days. Observing this benzo, the competition lies in medicines' absorption and metabolism rate. There are differences but not a rush to decide who is superior because doctors prescribe according to your condition.
How Much Valium Vs. Ativan Stay-In System
Drugs |
Valium | Ativan |
Urine | It can be detected in urine for about 6 weeks | About 6-10 days |
Blood | Valium remains for 48 hours in the system. | It can stay between 6 hours - 3 days. |
Saliva | Saliva test results showed it can be found for 10 days | Ativan can be detected for 6-8 hours in saliva after the last dose |
Hair | Valium stays for 90 days in hair. | Fortunately, similar to Valium, it is detectable for 90 days |
Valium vs. Ativan: Which One Is More Effective?
Valium and Ativan are recommended according to your condition, and both medicines are proven effective in treating Anxiety and related CNS conditions. Valium is a quick-absorbing and effective medication for fast results, especially for the worst Anxiety symptoms. Ativan has long-lasting results but can cause an increase in the number of drugs in the body. To cover it, the effective benzo is proven from the issue it is treating.
It is not recommended to mix one benzo with the other; it can result in severe Central Nervous System issues, coma, heavy dizziness, and drowsiness which can lead to accidents or injuries. The side effects of Valium and Ativan togetherly raise the side effects and worsen them.
Besides sedative, Valium and Ativan is also used in several other conditions, which are as follows:
Acute Muscle Spasm |
Insomnia |
Anesthesia |
Light Anesthesia |
Epilepticus |
Panic Disorders |
Tetanus |
Seizures |
Alcohol Withdrawal |
Vomiting |
Valium Vs. Ativan With Alcohol Good or Bad?
Alcohol is a recreational drug that depresses the central nervous system, and benzo also sedates the user. When you mix Valium vs. Ativan with alcohol, they can interact with each other and increase the intensity of sedative properties. It is better to ignore such experiments or habits.
What Precautions You Should Take For Valium Vs. Ativan
Valium & Ativan precautions.
Inform your doctor if you are
- Allergic to benzodiazepines (such as oxazepam, temazepam)
- Medical history like muscle disease, lung disease, and breathing issues.
- Mental disorders, depression, psychosis, family history of kidney disease.
- Avoid alcohol and marijuana.
Possible Side Effects Of Valium And Ativan
Side effects may vary from one medicine to another. Each medication works on the body differently and shows adverse effects. Valium vs Ativan effects are as follows:
Severe Side Effects Of Valium | Severe Side Effects Of Ativan |
Breathlessness | Severe drowsiness |
Severe rash problems | Mood swings |
Allergic reactions | Suicidal thoughts |
Hallucinations | Sleep issues |
Depressions | Jaundice |
Forms And Dosage Of Valium Vs. Ativan
Valium Dosage
For Adult
- Tablet: 2mg, 5mg, 10mg
- Oral Solution: 1mg/1ml, 5mg/5ml
- Gel: 2.5mg, 10mg, 20mg
- Injectable solution : 5mg/5ml
For Pediatrics:
- Tablet : 2mg, 5mg, 10mg
- Oral Solution: 1mg, 5mg
- Gel : 2.5mg, 10mg, 20mg
Ativan dosage
For Adult
- Tablet: 0.5mg, 1mg ,2mg
- Oral Solution: 2mg to 3mg orally per day
- Maintenance dose: 1 to 2 mg, 2 to 3 times a day 10mg is the maximum dose
- Valium can be taken up to 4 times daily, while Ativan can be taken 2 to 3 times daily.
Interactions Of Valium Vs Ativan
Interactions make the medicines lose effectiveness or can increase their side effects. Several other medications can interact with Valium Vs. Ativan.
- Opioids
- Fluoxetine
- Clozapine
- Probenecid
- Cimetidine
- Antacids
Bottom Line From Practical Anxiety Solutions
Medicine having the same drug class can confuse people about their usage or effectiveness. Valium Vs. Ativan is both benzos differences in the detection time. Valium stays for a longer duration in the body.
These medicines effectively work on the conditions. Ativan is known for its fast absorption and low half-life, so that it can be the first preference. Lastly, your health expert will prescribe you after examination between these two medicines.
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