Ativan vs. Xanax

  • Medical Editor: John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP
    John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP

    John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP

    John P. Cunha, DO, is a U.S. board-certified Emergency Medicine Physician. Dr. Cunha's educational background includes a BS in Biology from Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, and a DO from the Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences in Kansas City, MO. He completed residency training in Emergency Medicine at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Can I get addicted to Ativan and Xanax?

Each drug is physically addictive, especially if prescribed at high doses over a period of many months.

What are the withdrawal symptoms of Ativan and Xanax?

Like all benzodiazepines, Ativan and Xanax can cause physical dependence. Your doctor should prescribe a regimen to taper off the medication dose. People who suddenly stop therapy after months of daily therapy may experience a feeling of loss of self-worth, agitation, and insomnia. If Ativan or Xanax are taken continuously for many months, stopping therapy suddenly may produce withdrawal symptoms including:

Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 2/14/2017

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