xanax vs. xanax XR

[kbennj]

does the XR one work better?  I am finding regular xanax (.25) doesn't last past 4 hrs especially if you eat.  

[HHSLK72]

The answer is...it depends on the frequency and duration in which it is to be used.

If you are taking Xanax for a short duration of time (less than four months), the XR formulation would prevent the majority of the peaks and troughs that you are experiencing with IR Xanax (rebound anxiety). The XR version is time-released, and has a smoother duration of onset and a more prolonged duration of action. This helps to minimize the "rollercoaster effect".

As with any preparation of Alprazolam, it is not intended for long-term use (use in excess of four months). The risk of the development of tolerance is very high. Once tolerance to the effects of Xanax develop, it will no longer be effective. Increasing the dose will temporarily reestablish efficacy, however, this would be short lived.

If you need a long-term treatment option for your anxiety, Klonopin or Valium are superior. Klonopin is indicated for panic only, while Valium is indicated for generalized or "tension" anxiety. Unlike Xanax, neither of these agents appreciably lose their efficacy over the long-term. This is a function of their long half-lives (36 hours and 24 hours respectively). In comparison, Xanax carries an 11 hour half-life, and does not accumulate in your system. This lack of accumulation is what induces "interdose" and "rebound" anxiety between doses. It is also what induces the development of tolerance. Since Klonopin and Valium accumulate, the drug is held at a consistent level in your system. And since it is always present, you would have 24 hour coverage against the symptoms of anxiety/panic with the latter two.

In short, Xanax is not indicated for long-term use (in any preparation).

[kbennj]

why don't Drs perscribe valium anymore then, why do they immediately jump to xanax?

[johnboXR]

Doctors are real quick to put someone on xanax for some reason, I think they do this because they know its for short term, so one of these days hes gonna cut you off and then you'l be in withdrawl hell. You should ask your doctor to put you on Klonopin it is used for longer term and is easier to withdrawl from.