What is the difference between all the benzodiazepines? I mean, why does a doctor prescribe Xanax to one person, Ativan to another, Klonopin to someone else? I know they're all "anxiolytic" (the ones I mentioned) but what makes one better than another? The reason I'm asking is because I take Ativan occasionally but it really knocks me for a loop (which isn't always a bad thing). Is there one that is shorter-acting that can get you through the moment that doesn't have long, drawn out after effects?