For treating anxiety disorders and panic attacks, benzodiazepines are proven medicines for their calming effects. Among these, Xanax and Valium are popular benzodiazepines prescribed by most doctors. Both are used for the same medical conditions, like anxiety disorders, panic attacks, and other conditions involving excessive nervous system activity. Having these similarities, let’s know about Xanax Vs Valium differences, risk factors, and benefits here. In this article, we will discuss how effective xanax vs valium is for anxiety, and whether we can use them together or not.
How Similar is Valium to Xanax?
To relax the nervous system during periods of excessive anxiety, valium and xanax both act similarly to increase the effects of GABA(a calming neurotransmitter in the brain). Both Xanax and Valium depress the central nervous system activity, leading to reduced anxiety, sedation, muscle relaxation, and anticonvulsant effects. They work by reducing abnormal brain activity, slowly calming down, and relieving stress. Both Valium and Xanax come under Schedule II drugs for their high potential for misuse and addictive nature. Although both seem very similar to each other, they have differences in their characteristics. They can’t be used as an alternative to one another. Also, they can’t be used together, because they contain benzodiazepines can cause overdose symptoms. If you are planning to switch or alternate Valium and Xanax, first know their differences and choose the better one.
Know About Xanax Vs Valium Difference
Have you been prescribed one of these medicines and want to choose the right pill for your treatment? Then, considering their similarities, you should know how they differ from each other, their effectiveness, and the risk factors that may help you treat your anxiety better. Let’s discuss it below:
- The main difference between xanax and valium is that xanax starts working within 15-30 minutes, but Valium starts its action after 30 minutes.
- That means, for quick action, you can take xanax, and for slow action with lengthy action, you can take valium.
- Xanax works for a short-term duration as compared to valium. Although valium will start working very slowly, its effect will last up to 12 hours. Xanax will start action in a fast manner, but can relieve anxiety for only 4-6 hours.
- Alprazolam is the generic name for xanax, and Valium has Diazepam as its generic name.
Overall, Valium is a long-acting, powerful pill that affects you slowly, and Xanax is a short-acting, reliable pill that will be a great choice for your sudden panic attacks.
Xanax Vs Valium Which is better For Anxiety?
Choosing between Xanax Vs Valium, which one is better, depends on various factors of the patient. Such as the current condition of the patient, other medical history, metabolic power of the patient, and responsiveness of the patient. If you want to choose one, consider these factors and see the appropriate pill for your needs.
When To Choose Xanax
If you want to relief from fast relief from panic attacks and short-term anxiety, then take Xanax. It will give the result within 15 minutes and relieve you for up to 6 hours. If you have social anxiety, flying anxiety, or any panic disorder, then you can take it after consulting a doctor.
When To Choose Valium
If you are suffering from a long-term anxiety problem, then you can take valium. Because it will relieve 12 hours of anxiety and panic attacks. Take it only if you have generalized anxiety disorder or long-term anxiety. It has high potential for abuse or addiction, so do not take it for short-term anxiety. Take it after consulting your doctor.
Neither Xanax nor Valium should be used without a doctor’s consultation. Both carry risks of dependence, addiction, and withdrawal issues. So choose the pill safely by consulting a doctor.
How long does valium and xanax stay in your system?
Due to their different half-lives, it also affects how long they will stay in your system. Depending upon the individual, xanax has an average half-life of 11 hours, and valium has a 20–70 hour half-life. Here, half-life means half of the drug is eliminated from your body. To know this duration, let’s see their detection timing by different drug tests.
Xanax Vs Valium Drug Test
| Test Type | Xanax | Valium |
| Urine | 1–4 days (longer if chronic use) | 10–14+ days (can be longer) |
| Blood | Up to 1 day | 1–2 days |
| Saliva | 1–2.5 days | 1–10 days |
| Hair | Up to 90 days | Up to 90 days |
This detection time may vary depending on the patient’s age, physical activity, diet, hydration, metabolism, and amount of dose.
How long after taking xanax can you take valium?
Before discussing this topic, let’s know, Can You Take Valium and Xanax together? No, it is strictly prohibited to take xanax and valium together without a doctor’s consultation. Because both are benzodiazepines. That can cause harmful effects if taken together.
Are you wondering, can I switch from xanax to valium? Don’t worry, it is possible, and you can switch after consulting a doctor. Valium is a high-strength medication that works for 12 hours, and xanax will relieve you for 4 hours. So if you feel you need a high-strength pill, and you can’t get relief from panic attacks from xanax, then go for the Valium. First, tell your doctor all of your medical history, and other diseases, then get a prescribed xanax for treating anxiety.
Remember to ask your doctor How long after taking xanax can I take valium? It is important because the effect of xanax will last longer than 4 hours. In that time, if you take valium, then it may cause severe side effects. So take the pill according to the doctor’s prescription.
Side Effects of Xanax Vs Valium
Like other benzodiazepines, Xanax and Valium show some side effects. Because they directly affect the central nervous system. Some other factors that can cause side effects like overdose, misuse, and whenever you miss a dose. So take the dose carefully, otherwise you may suffer from the negative effects of Xanax and Valium.
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Impaired coordination
- Confusion
- Muscle weakness
- Memory problems
- Slurred speech
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
- How Long Does Xanax Take To Kick In?
Xanax starts working within 15 to 30 minutes after you take it, with peak effects for 1 to 2 hours. Its effects usually last for about 4 to 6 hours. Factors like taking it on an empty stomach or your metabolism can influence how quickly you feel its effects.
- Which Is Best, Xanax Vs Valium For Flying?
For flying, Valium is often preferred over Xanax because it has a long-term action and provides a more stable calming effect, which can help manage anxiety throughout the flight. Xanax works faster but lasts for a short time, which might not last the entire trip, and can cause rebound anxiety as it wears off. However, the best choice depends on your individual needs and medical history, so it’s important to consult your doctor before using either medication for flying.
- What Should I Choose: Xanax Vs Valium For MRI?
Xanax is a fast-acting benzodiazepine that helps reduce anxiety and panic. It typically begins working within 15–30 minutes and lasts about 4–6 hours. For people who experience anxiety during an MRI, Xanax can be effective in calming nerves quickly. However, because of its shorter duration, it may not be ideal for longer procedures or lingering anxiety after the scan. Always consult your doctor to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your situation.
- How Long Does Valium Take To Kick In
Valium usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes to start working after oral administration. It’s calming, anti-anxiety, and muscle-relaxing effects gradually build and can last for 12 to 24 hours or longer, depending on the dose and individual metabolism. Because of its longer onset and duration, Valium is often used for sustained anxiety relief, muscle spasms, or to ease nerves.