Despite what many Americans believe, illegal street drugs are not the only kind of addictive drug. Sadly, even prescription drugs like Xanax and Valium can be just as addicting. However, despite some similarities, Xanax and Valium are two very different drugs that can have different effects on their users.

What is Xanax?

Like Valium, Xanax is a member of a classification of drugs called benzodiazepines. Drugs in this group are commonly used to treat neural conditions. Most often, benzodiazepines are used to treat anxiety. Xanax, which is also known as alprazolam, can be prescribed by a doctor to treat anxiety as well as panic disorders. Xanax is considered an intermediate onset benzodiazepine; this means the user will begin to feel the effect of the drug within 1-2 hours with the effects lasting for anywhere from 6 to 20 hours.

The Side Effects of Using Xanax 

Aside from treating anxiety and panic disorders, Xanax can also have several side effects on the human body. The side effects of using Xanax can include: 

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Lightheadedness
• Headaches
• Depression
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Blurred Vision
• Hypotension 

Xanax is processed by the liver, so it can also possess a potential danger to anyone with liver problems and affect a person’s metabolism. 

What is Valium?

Valium is also a prescription benzodiazepine that can treat anxiety. However, Valium, also known as diazepam, can be used to treat other issues and disorders as well, including seizure disorders, muscle tightness, and even the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. Valium has a rapid onset of action, occurring within an hour. The effects of Valium will last anywhere from 20 to 50 hours; however, the effects can reach up to 100 hours with an active metabolite.   

The Side Effects of Using Valium

The side effects of using Valium can include: 

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Lightheadedness
• Headaches
• Depression
• Nausea
• Hypotension

Like Xanax, Valium is also processed by the liver, so it can affect a user’s metabolism and pose a danger to any liver conditions.  

Xanax and Valium: What are the Differences?

Although Xanax and Valium are both members of the benzodiazepine family and can both be used to treat anxiety disorder, they have several significant differences. One of the most important differences is that Valium can be used to treat more disorders and issues. Valium can also treat seizure disorders, muscle tightness, and alcohol withdrawal. Xanax, on the other hand, can only be used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. 

Xanax and Valium also affect the human body differently. Valium takes effect much more quickly and can remain in effect much longer than Xanax. On average, Valium also has a lower frequency of side effects and does not present a chance for constipation or blurred vision like Xanax. 

The Effects of a Benzodiazepine Addiction

Despite their differences in how they are used and what side effects they can have on a user, both Xanax and Valium are addictive substances. Unfortunately, an addiction to either of these benzodiazepines can have a number of serious effects on the human body. According to the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior at the University of California, Los Angeles, a benzodiazepine addiction, such as Valium abuse, can cause individuals to feel unable to function without benzodiazepine. Sadly, a benzodiazepine addiction can also be linked to increased likelihood for self-harm and suicidal tendencies.    

Looking for a Drug Rehab in Tennessee? 

Although Xanax and Valium are prescription drugs that often help individuals dealing with anxiety disorder, both drugs are addictive and possess the potential for several serious side effects. Addiction to either member of the benzodiazepine family can alter the brain, create dependence, and potentially lead to self-harm and suicidal tendencies. To avoid these effects, individuals should only take benzodiazepines as prescribed and seek treatment if they have an addiction. 

If you or a loved one are looking for drug rehab in Tennessee for benzodiazepine addiction or any other kind of addiction, contact us today! At Knoxville Recovery Center, our team of addiction specialists are happy to address any concerns and share details on all the kinds of treatment our facility has to offer.