Lorazepam vs. Bromazepam — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Fiza Rafique — Updated on March 1, 2024
Lorazepam, an anxiolytic with fast onset, is widely used for anxiety and seizure disorders, while Bromazepam, less potent, offers smoother long-term anxiety control.
Difference Between Lorazepam and Bromazepam
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Lorazepam acts rapidly, making it preferred for acute anxiety and seizure emergencies. Whereas, Bromazepam, with a slower onset, is suited for managing chronic anxiety without immediate effects.
Lorazepam's shorter half-life necessitates more frequent dosing to maintain its effect. On the other hand, Bromazepam's longer half-life allows for less frequent dosing, making it more convenient for long-term use.
Lorazepam is known for its potent sedative and muscle relaxant properties, beneficial in acute settings. Bromazepam, while also sedative, is generally milder, reducing the risk of over-sedation in day-to-day activities.
Patients may develop tolerance or dependence on Lorazepam more quickly due to its potency and rapid action. Bromazepam, with its gradual effect, poses a lower risk of dependency over time.
Lorazepam is often used in pre-surgical settings or for acute agitation due to its rapid calming effects, Bromazepam is rarely indicated for such immediate interventions, focusing instead on generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) management.
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Comparison Chart
Onset of Action
Fast
Slower
Half-Life
Shorter (12-24 hours)
Longer (10-20 hours)
Dosage Frequency
More frequent
Less frequent
Primary Use
Acute anxiety, seizures
Chronic anxiety
Risk of Dependency
Higher
Lower
Compare with Definitions
Lorazepam
A benzodiazepine used for treating anxiety.
Doctors prescribe Lorazepam to manage acute anxiety attacks.
Bromazepam
A benzodiazepine for chronic anxiety management.
Bromazepam helps maintain a steady state of calm.
Lorazepam
Used in emergency settings for seizures.
Lorazepam is effective in stopping an ongoing seizure.
Bromazepam
Has a smoother, longer-lasting effect.
Bromazepam's effects last throughout the day without sudden onset.
Lorazepam
Acts as a sedative and muscle relaxant.
Lorazepam was administered pre-surgery for its sedative effects.
Bromazepam
Less potent compared to other benzodiazepines.
Bromazepam offers anxiety relief without strong sedation.
Lorazepam
Known for its fast-acting nature.
Lorazepam quickly calms down panic attacks.
Bromazepam
Suitable for long-term treatment of anxiety disorders.
Bromazepam is prescribed for ongoing anxiety control.
Lorazepam
Can lead to dependency with long-term use.
Long-term Lorazepam use may require careful withdrawal.
Bromazepam
Lower risk of dependency than stronger benzodiazepines.
Bromazepam users report fewer withdrawal symptoms.
Lorazepam
Lorazepam, sold under the brand name Ativan among others, is a benzodiazepine medication. It is used to treat anxiety disorders, trouble sleeping, severe agitation, active seizures including status epilepticus, alcohol withdrawal, and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
Bromazepam
Bromazepam, sold under many brand names, is a benzodiazepine. It is mainly an anti-anxiety agent with similar side effects to diazepam (Valium).
Lorazepam
A benzodiazepine drug, C15H10Cl2N2O2, that acts as a sedative and antianxiety agent and is used therapeutically to control seizures.
Bromazepam
(pharmaceutical drug) A benzodiazepine drug with anxiolytic, sedative, hypnotic and skeletal muscle relaxant properties.
Lorazepam
(pharmaceutical drug) A drug of the benzodiazepine group, used especially to treat anxiety.
Lorazepam
Tranquilizer (trade name Ativan) used to treat anxiety and tension and insomnia
Common Curiosities
Can Lorazepam be used for long-term anxiety management?
Due to the risk of dependency, Lorazepam is generally not recommended for long-term anxiety management.
Does Bromazepam cause drowsiness?
Yes, like most benzodiazepines, Bromazepam can cause drowsiness, albeit generally less severe than Lorazepam.
Is Bromazepam effective for panic attacks?
Bromazepam may not be the best choice for immediate relief of panic attacks due to its slower onset.
Is Lorazepam addictive?
Lorazepam can be habit-forming, especially with long-term or unsupervised use.
Can Bromazepam be used for sleep disorders?
While not its primary use, Bromazepam may be prescribed for sleep disturbances related to anxiety.
Can I switch from Lorazepam to Bromazepam for anxiety?
Switching medications should only be done under medical supervision to manage withdrawal and adjust dosages appropriately.
Are there withdrawal symptoms from Lorazepam?
Yes, sudden discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety, insomnia, and irritability.
How quickly does Lorazepam work?
Lorazepam works within 20-30 minutes of ingestion, making it effective for acute treatment.
What are the side effects of Lorazepam?
Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and weakness.
Is Bromazepam safer than Lorazepam?
Bromazepam may have a lower risk of dependency and side effects but assessing safety depends on individual health conditions and needs.
How long can you take Bromazepam?
Duration should be limited to the shortest possible and always under medical advice to avoid dependency.
Can Bromazepam affect memory?
Yes, like other benzodiazepines, Bromazepam can affect short-term memory, especially with long-term use.
What is the maximum dosage for Bromazepam?
Dosage varies by individual needs but should not exceed prescribed limits to avoid adverse effects.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Lorazepam?
No, combining Lorazepam with alcohol can increase sedative effects and is highly discouraged.
Can Lorazepam help with depression?
Lorazepam is not a treatment for depression and may worsen symptoms in some cases.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
