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Can Xanax Be Taken Instead Of Ativan Without Side Effects?

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Posted on Mon, 7 Mar 2016
Question: How do you switch from 1 mg ativan 3 times a day to Xanax .5 mg three times a day? Doctor switched my meds and am nervous about an interaction
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Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (14 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Consultation

Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thanks for your question.

Benzodiazepines all act on the same receptors in the brain. They can all be easily converted from one to another. We do this regularly depending on tolerability. Xanax 0.5mg is exactly equivalent to Ativan 1mg. The only difference is that Xanax enters and leaves the system more quickly -- otherwise, it is exactly the same. I would not expect you to experience any new side effects or any interactions. This should be okay!

In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me at my private link below. After you ask a direct question it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad
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Answered by
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Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2014

Answered : 2236 Questions

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Can Xanax Be Taken Instead Of Ativan Without Side Effects?

Brief Answer: Consultation Detailed Answer: Hello, and thanks for your question. Benzodiazepines all act on the same receptors in the brain. They can all be easily converted from one to another. We do this regularly depending on tolerability. Xanax 0.5mg is exactly equivalent to Ativan 1mg. The only difference is that Xanax enters and leaves the system more quickly -- otherwise, it is exactly the same. I would not expect you to experience any new side effects or any interactions. This should be okay! In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me at my private link below. After you ask a direct question it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers