Posted by ed_uk on March 31, 2006, at 16:44:32
In reply to Re: Is Valium more potent than Xanax? » ed_uk, posted by SLS on March 31, 2006, at 16:00:05
Hi Scott,
>Does Valium have any hypnotic properties?
Yes. All of the commonly used benzos are somewhat hypnotic, including Xanax and Klonopin. I have taken Xanax a few times myself. I found it very hypnotic, more so than Valium!
The common distinction between 'anxiolytic benzos' and 'hypnotic benzos' is mainly due to marketing. Temazepam (Restoril), which is marketed as a hypnotic, could be taken during the day as an anxiolytic. Alprazolam (Xanax), which is marketed as an anxiolytic, could be taken at night as a hypnotic. Clonazepam (Klonopin) was originally marketed by Roche as an anticonvulsant. In many parts of the world, clonazepam is still used almost exclusively for epilepsy. Roche had already marketed numerous benzos for anxiety and insomnia. Clonazepam effectively expanded their benzos market share.
A large dose of any benzo will act as a hypnotic for most people. Clobazam (Frisium) is perhaps an exception. Alprazolam (Xanax) is generally sedating, although 'paradoxical excitement' may be more frequent with Xanax than with other benzos.
Relatively small doses of any benzo given in divided doses throughout the day will be anxiolytic for most people eg. temazepam 7.5mg three times a day.
Benzos with a rapid onset of action and a relatively short duration of action are most suitable for insomnia eg. temazepam 7.5mg-60mg.
A rapid-acting benzo is needed to treat an acute panic attack eg. Xanax, Valium.
A long-acting benzo is most suitable for chronic severe anxiety eg. Librium, Valium, Klonopin.
Some benzos may be more hypnotic that others, although this has recieved surprisingly little study. In general, any benzo will induce sleep if the dose is adequate.
Ambien and Lunesta are different from the benzos. Both drugs are predominantly hypnotic. Neither drug is a suitable treatment for anxiety.
Ed
poster:ed_uk
thread:627071
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20060329/msgs/627174.html