Comparing Ativan and Clonazepam – LORAzepamum Medical Blog
Understanding the Differences Between Ativan and Clonazepam
Ativan and Clonazepam are both intermediate-acting benzodiazepines that share similarities in their mechanisms of action. However, there are notable differences in their usage. This article aims to explore these distinctions and shed light on the characteristics of these drugs.
What is Ativan?
Ativan, also known as lorazepam, is a prescription medication commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders. It can be used alone or in combination with other medicines. In addition to anxiety, Ativan is also effective in treating severe agitation, insomnia, active seizures (including status epilepticus), and alcohol withdrawal. It is often administered prior to surgery to induce sleep. Ativan belongs to the drug class of anxiolytics, antianxiety agents, benzodiazepines, and anticonvulsants.
What is Clonazepam?
Clonazepam belongs to a group of medications called benzodiazepines. It works by increasing the levels of gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA), a calming chemical in the brain. Clonazepam can be used to manage involuntary muscle spasms, panic disorder, seizures associated with epilepsy, and sometimes restless legs syndrome. It is available in tablet form as well as a liquid for oral consumption. For reliable online buy, you can buy Clonazepam from our website, the most trusted online pharmacy store in the country.
Clonazepam functions by elevating the levels of a calming chemical in the brain, thereby alleviating anxiety, preventing seizures and muscle spasms, and inducing muscle relaxation. It promotes a sense of calmness and reduces anxiety levels. Initially, Clonazepam may cause drowsiness, relaxation, and confusion, but these side effects typically diminish with continued use. It is generally not addictive if taken for a short duration (i.e., two to four weeks). However, if used for an extended period, the dosage should be gradually reduced before discontinuation.
Main Differences Between Clonazepam and Ativan
Clonazepam is marketed under the brand name Klonopin and is primarily used to treat panic disorder and seizures. On the other hand, Ativan, also known as lorazepam, is prescribed for anxiety and panic attacks. In certain surgical procedures, Ativan in injectable form is commonly used as an anesthetic.
Clonazepam has a longer half-life of approximately 30 to 40 hours, meaning its effects can persist for a longer duration after ingestion. In comparison, Ativan has a half-life of 20 hours.
While Ativan is available in both oral and injectable forms, Clonazepam is only available in oral form.
The standard dosage for Clonazepam is typically 0.25 mg taken twice daily, whereas the usual dosage for Ativan is 1 mg taken twice daily.
Conditions Treated by Ativan vs. Clonazepam
Both Ativan and Clonazepam are approved by the FDA for the treatment of seizures. Clonazepam can effectively manage myoclonic and akinetic seizures, as well as those associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Ativan, on the other hand, is commonly used to treat status epilepticus, a more severe type of seizure.
Clonazepam is often prescribed to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and recurring panic attacks. Ativan is frequently used to address anxiety or anxiety related to depression. Both medications can be used off-label to treat other anxiety disorders such as social phobia. Additionally, Ativan is FDA-approved for insomnia treatment, while Clonazepam may be prescribed off-label for sleep-related issues.
Both Ativan and Clonazepam can be used off-label to manage alcohol withdrawal and agitation.
Effectiveness of Clonazepam vs. Ativan
In general, both Clonazepam and Ativan are effective in treating various conditions. However, their effectiveness may vary depending on the specific condition being treated.
A multicenter study found that Clonazepam (Klonopin) and Ativan (lorazepam) were equally effective in treating anxiety disorders. There were no significant differences observed in terms of improvements in anxiety and sleep scores. However, Clonazepam exhibited fewer side effects compared to Ativan.
Another study compared the use of Ativan and Clonazepam for status epilepticus. Although Ativan is more commonly used and approved for this condition, Clonazepam was found to be a beneficial alternative. Clonazepam is sometimes used off-label for this purpose.
Both Clonazepam and Ativan can cause similar side effects, primarily affecting the central nervous system (CNS). These side effects may include dizziness, drowsiness