Alprazolam (Niravam, Xanax) is an inexpensive drug used to treat anxiety and panic attacks. This drug is more popular than comparable drugs. It is available in multiple brand and generic versions. The Downside Of Anti-Anxiety Drugs. Benzodiazepines like Xanax and Ativan come with a very long list of side effects. According to RXList.com, they commonly make people feel drowsy, dizzy, weak, confused, or unsteady. Ativan can cause mild or serious side effects. The following list contains some of the key side effects that may occur while taking Ativan. This list doesn’t include all possible side effects. Xanax has a very short half life and valium has the longest half life of all benzos. We feel the effects of xanax more quickly where the valium lasts longer. INDICATIONS. Ativan (lorazepam) is indicated for the management of anxiety disorders or for the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety or anxiety associated with depressive symptoms. The symptoms of anxiety vary for each person, based on the specific anxiety disorder a person has. However, all anxiety disorders are linked together by common symptoms, including excessive, irrational fear and dread. The connection between benzodiazepines and dementia has not been especially clear in recent years. Last year, a widely publicized study again found that benzodiazepines--Ativan, Valium, and Xanax. We’ve heard plenty about the opioid epidemic. But there’s another less recognized prescription drug problem: benzodiazepines like Ativan, Xanax, Valium, and Klonopin. Yes, you certainly can be prescribed both Ativan and Xanax, although IMO it doesn't make much sense. They both fall into a category of drugs called benzodiazepines, which work similarly by binding to the GABAa receptor site in the brain. Alprazolam (Xanax, Xanax XR, Niravam) is an anti-anxiety drug that belongs to the benzodiazepine class. Common side effects are fatigue, constipation, changes in weight, and addiction (dependency). Withdrawal symptoms are headaches, anxiety, and nausea and vomiting.