Librium Vs. Xanax

Chlordiazepoxide (brand name Librium) and alprazolam (Xanax) are benzodiazepines, sometimes referred to as “benzos.”

These prescription drugs have numerous similarities and are approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of anxiety. However, Librium and Xanax also have a variety of differences.

Similarities Between Librium & Xanax

Librium and Xanax are part of the benzodiazepine drug class that, according to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), belong to the schedule IV controlled substance status.

This means that the meds have the potential for abuse. Other benzodiazepines include diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), and clonazepam (Klonopin).

Mechanism Of Action

Librium and Xanax are central nervous system (CNS) depressants. These prescription pills work by enhancing the effects of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor in the brain.

Side Effects

When Librium or Xanax are taken, sedation and relaxation may occur.

Some of the other possible side effects these drugs may cause include:

• changes in appetite
• drowsiness
• dizziness
• changes in sex drive
• constipation
• dry mouth
• sleepiness

Drug Interactions

There are a number of drug interactions that may take place if benzodiazepines are combined with other drugs, especially CNS depressants.

Those taking Librium or Xanax should avoid other potential CNS depressants including:

• muscle relaxants
• sleeping pills
• barbiturates
• opioids
• alcohol

Because drug interactions can take place, always speak with your healthcare provider to receive medical advice regarding medications to avoid.

Abuse Potential

Those who abuse these benzodiazepines by taking them in high doses may experience a number of similar side effects. If either substance is snorted, bacterial infections, a chronic runny nose, and nosebleeds can occur.

In addition to this, if either of these pills are crushed, combined with water, and injected, a person can experience abscesses on the skin as well as collapsed veins.

Abusing either drug can lead to a number of serious, life-threatening side effects such as:

• blood pressure fluctuations
• heart rate fluctuations
• respiratory depression
• physical dependence
• benzodiazepine overdose
• withdrawal symptoms

Differences Between Librium & Xanax

One of the primary differences between Librium and Xanax is the fact that Xanax is a short-acting drug while Librium has a long-acting effect.

When it comes to the half-life of a drug, Librium has a half-life of 5-30 hours. Xanax, on the other hand, has a half life of only 6-12 hours.

Because of this, the side effects of Xanax occur quickly while the effects of Librium can be slow, yet long-lasting.

Brand Name Discontinuation

Another difference with Librium and Xanax is the fact that Librium is no longer the brand name for chlordiazepoxide.

While Librium has been discontinued, chlordiazepoxide is still prescribed. With alprazolam, however, Xanax is the brand name and continues to be prescribed as well.

Approved Uses

Although Librium and Xanax are used to treat symptoms of anxiety, they are approved by the FDA for different uses. For instance, Librium is approved for treating generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

Xanax is approved for GAD as well, but is also used to treat panic disorders including agoraphobia. Xanax helps treat panic attacks caused by intense moments of panic or anxiety.

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