Xanax vs Xanax XR: Difference and Comparison

A lot of physicians use sedatives to help their patients with a number of things. A dentist might use a sedative to relax the patient or make them fall asleep during the dental procedure so that they do not have to feel the extreme pain that will be caused during the operation, surgery, or treatment.

Key Takeaways

  1. Xanax (alprazolam) is a short-acting benzodiazepine, while Xanax XR is the extended-release version of the same medication.
  2. Xanax provides rapid relief for anxiety and panic symptoms, whereas Xanax XR maintains a consistent level of medication throughout the day.
  3. Xanax may require multiple doses, while Xanax XR is taken once daily.

Xanax vs Xanax XR

Xanax is a is a prescription medication classified as a benzodiazepine. It is prescribed to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and sometimes insomnia. Xanax XR is a prescription medication that is used to treat anxiety disorders and panic disorders. It is created to have a longer effect.

Xanax vs Xanax XR

It is a short-acting drug which means it needs to be given four times a day at intervals of 4 to 6 hours. It is recommended to continue the use of Xanax for around six weeks.

Xanax XR is also given to people who suffer from anxiety and panic attacks. Xanax XR is a long-acting drug, so it is only required to take one dose of this sedation drug every 24 hours.

Comparison Table

Parameters of ComparisonXanaxXanax XR
Duration of effectXanax is a short-acting drugXanax XR is a long-acting drug
No. of dosesIt needs to be taken 4 – 6 times a dayIt needs to be taken once every 24 hours
Duration of useIt must be given for approximately six weeksIt must be provided for more than eight weeks
Treatment forIt is used in the treatment of severe anxiety and panic attacks.It is used to treat panic attacks, anxiety, and depression.
PriceIt is less costly than Xanax XRIt is an expensive drug

What is Xanax?

Xanax is a short-acting drug, requiring it to be taken 4 to 6 times a day. It is prescribed by doctors for patients suffering from severe anxiety, panic attacks, etc., and is very helpful in treating these conditions.

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Anxiety needs to be taken care of for some time in very close observation, and after that, it can be treated even without medicines.

Pregnant women and people with allergies or a history of medical conditions must ask the doctor before taking this drug.

What is Xanax XR?

Xanax XR is a sedation drug widely used to treat extreme anxiety, panic attacks, and depression. Since the rate of depression patients is increasing day by day at an alarming rate, Xanax XR is a very useful and common drug nowadays.

Xanax XR, or Xanax extended-release, is an expensive drug, but it becomes affordable since it is only taken once daily. Being a sedation drug, it can cause drowsiness and lightheadedness that can be taken after taking the dose, and therefore, one should strictly prohibit themselves from performing heavy tasks.

All people who have underlying medical conditions and women who are pregnant must always consult a doctor before starting with this drug. 

Main Differences Between Xanax and Xanax XR

  1. Xanax is used to treat mainly panic attacks, whereas Xanax XR is used for patients suffering from severe anxiety, panic attacks, and depression.
  2. Xanax is not an expensive drug, and on the other hand, Xanax XR is a bit costly sedation drug.
References
  1. https://journals.lww.com/americantherapeutics/Fulltext/2006/09000/Pharmacokinetics_of_an_Extended_Release.8.aspx
  2. https://doktika.com/candesartan_cilexetil-xanax_xr_oral

Last Updated : 13 July, 2023

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13 thoughts on “Xanax vs Xanax XR: Difference and Comparison”

  1. The cautionary advice for individuals with underlying medical conditions and pregnant women regarding Xanax XR is notably important and well-highlighted.

    Reply
  2. The content is very well explained, with correct and precise information about the differences between these two sedative drugs.

    Reply
  3. The clarification of what Xanax is and its usage is very informative, especially for those who are considering treatment for anxiety.

    Reply

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