Benzodiazepine Conversion Calculator
Convert benzodiazepine doses using standardized equivalence factors. Compare alprazolam, diazepam, lorazepam, clonazepam, and more with conversion tables.
About This Calculator
The Benzodiazepine Conversion Calculator helps patients and healthcare professionals convert between different benzodiazepine doses using a standardized equivalence table. Benzodiazepines are a class of medications primarily prescribed for anxiety disorders, insomnia, seizure control, and muscle relaxation. This calculator supports 14 commonly prescribed benzodiazepines including alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), clonazepam (Rivotril), and temazepam (Restoril).
The conversion uses alprazolam as the reference drug with a factor of 1. Each benzodiazepine in the table has a factor representing its potency relative to alprazolam. The formula is: Equivalent Dose = (Source Dose ÷ Source Factor) × Target Factor. For example, converting 10 mg diazepam (factor 15) to lorazepam (factor 2) gives (10 ÷ 15) × 2 = 1.33 mg lorazepam. The calculator also shows equivalent doses for all 14 drugs in a single comparison table, making it easy to understand relative potencies.
Benzodiazepines are classified by duration of action into short-acting (midazolam, triazolam — 2-7 hours), intermediate-acting (alprazolam, lorazepam, temazepam — 4-10 hours), and long-acting (diazepam, clonazepam, chlordiazepoxide — 11-200 hours). The onset of action varies from 1-3 minutes (IV midazolam) to 3 hours (oxazepam), depending on the drug and route of administration. This calculator supports oral and IV formulations where applicable.
Regional Notes
India: Common benzodiazepines prescribed include alprazolam (Zolax, Restyl), clonazepam (Clonotril, Epitril), lorazepam (Ativan, Lorax), and diazepam (Valium, Calmpose). These are Schedule H drugs and require a prescription. The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act regulates their use.
US: Benzodiazepines are Schedule IV controlled substances under the Controlled Substances Act. Common brands include Xanax (alprazolam), Ativan (lorazepam), Valium (diazepam), Klonopin (clonazepam), and Restoril (temazepam). Prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) track their dispensing in most states.
UK: Benzodiazepines are Class C controlled substances under the Misuse of Drugs Act. They are typically prescribed for short-term use (2-4 weeks) due to the risk of dependence. Common prescriptions include diazepam, lorazepam, and temazepam. The NHS recommends the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert between benzodiazepine doses?
To convert between benzodiazepines, divide your current dose by the source drug's equivalence factor (relative to alprazolam), then multiply by the target drug's factor. For example, 10 mg diazepam (factor 15) converts to 0.67 mg alprazolam (factor 1): (10 ÷ 15) × 1 = 0.67 mg.
What is the benzodiazepine equivalence table based on?
The equivalence table uses alprazolam (Xanax) as the reference drug with a factor of 1. Each benzodiazepine's factor represents its potency relative to alprazolam. For instance, lorazepam (Ativan) has a factor of 2, meaning 1 mg alprazolam equals approximately 2 mg lorazepam. These factors are compiled from clinical pharmacology references and are widely used in medical practice.
Can I use this benzodiazepine conversion calculator for medical decisions?
No. This calculator provides reference information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Benzodiazepine conversions should only be performed under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Dosage adjustments depend on individual factors including age, liver function, concomitant medications, and the specific indication being treated.
What are the different types of benzodiazepines?
Benzodiazepines are classified by duration of action. Short-acting (2-7 hours): midazolam, triazolam. Intermediate-acting (4-10 hours): alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), temazepam (Restoril). Long-acting (11-200 hours): diazepam (Valium), clonazepam (Rivotril), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), flurazepam (Dalmane), clorazepate (Tranxene), quazepam (Doral), bromazepam (Lexotan), oxazepam (Serax).
What is the equivalent dose of 0.5 mg alprazolam (Xanax) in diazepam (Valium)?
0.5 mg alprazolam (factor 1) is equivalent to approximately 7.5 mg diazepam (factor 15). The calculation is: (0.5 ÷ 1) × 15 = 7.5 mg. This is a commonly requested conversion as alprazolam and diazepam are two of the most prescribed benzodiazepines globally.
Why is alprazolam used as the reference for benzodiazepine conversion?
Alprazolam (Xanax) is used as the reference because it is one of the most widely prescribed benzodiazepines worldwide and has a well-established pharmacological profile. Its intermediate duration of action (6-20 hours) and consistent clinical response make it a practical anchor point for constructing equivalence tables.
Are there side effects of benzodiazepines?
Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, light-headedness, muscle weakness, memory impairment, slurred speech, and coordination problems. Long-term use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation. Benzodiazepines should only be used under medical supervision due to their potent effects and risk of dependency.