Benzodiazepines such as Xanax (alprazolam) and Lexotanil (bromazepam) are prescription medicines that quickly relieve acute anxiety and panic attacks. They are intended for short-term use, because long-term use may lead to tolerance, dependence and withdrawal symptoms. Do not combine them with alcohol or opioid painkillers, and do not stop them abruptly after regular use. Your doctor will determine the duration of treatment and a gradual tapering plan. [1] [2]
Benzodiazepines are a group of medicines known in Jordan by brand names such as Xanax and Lexotanil. Doctors prescribe them to calm severe anxiety in specific situations. They act quickly and provide clear relief, and this same relief is what makes relying on them risky. In this article, we explain when they are useful, when they become a burden, and the rules that protect you.
What are benzodiazepines and how do they work?
Alprazolam (the active ingredient in Xanax) belongs to the class of medicines called benzodiazepines. It works by reducing abnormal excitation in the brain [1]. Diazepam is another member of the same family. It is used for severe anxiety, muscle spasms and epileptic seizures, and it may also be given to relax a patient before a treatment or surgical procedure [2].
Put simply, these medicines slow down the activity of the nervous system, which eases anxiety symptoms and brings on drowsiness and relaxation. For this reason, they can affect concentration and balance, and they require special caution with any other medicine or substance that also slows the nervous system.
These medicines are classified as controlled drugs. The drug guide on ClinicsJo explains this on the pages for Xanax (alprazolam) and Lexotanil (bromazepam). Medicines and their listed prices in Jordan are regulated by the Jordan Food and Drug Administration (JFDA).
When are benzodiazepines prescribed?
Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety disorders and panic disorder, meaning sudden, unexpected episodes of intense fear and worry about having them again [1]. Lexotanil is usually prescribed for severe acute anxiety for a short period, typically 2 to 4 weeks, as a bridge until the main treatment plan begins to work, according to the drug guide on ClinicsJo.
The UK National Health Service (NHS) recommends that diazepam be used for a short period not exceeding 4 weeks, because continued use for longer may cause addiction and withdrawal symptoms [2].
| Medicine | Active ingredient | Usual use | Intended duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xanax | Alprazolam | Anxiety disorders and panic attacks [1] | Short-term, under physician supervision |
| Lexotanil | Bromazepam | Severe acute anxiety, or tension before a specific procedure | About 2–4 weeks as a bridge |
| Diazepam | Diazepam | Severe anxiety, muscle spasms, epileptic seizures, sedation before treatment [2] | Up to 4 weeks [2] |
What do these medicines not treat?
Sedatives are not a treatment for the root causes of chronic anxiety or chronic insomnia. The drug guide on ClinicsJo states that the root treatment for recurrent anxiety is SSRI antidepressants combined with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and that the sedative acts as a temporary "bridge" toward them. To learn about types of anxiety and their treatment options, read our article on Anxiety Disorders: Types, Symptoms and Treatment.
Why should you be careful about relying on sedatives?
MedlinePlus warns that alprazolam may be habit-forming, and advises not to increase the dose, repeat it, or extend the duration beyond what your doctor has specified [1]. With open-ended daily use, it is common for the same dose to gradually lose its effect (tolerance). The patient then feels that it is "no longer enough" and increases it on their own, and this is where dependence begins.
Tell your doctor honestly if you drink large amounts of alcohol, use illicit drugs, have previously misused prescription medicines, or have suffered from depression or another mental illness [1]. The NHS notes that diazepam may not suit people with a history of alcohol or drug misuse [2]. This is not a judgment against you. Your doctor may simply prefer a safer option for you.
How do you protect yourself from dependence?
- Agree with your doctor from the start on the expected duration and the review date. An open-ended prescription with no plan is the beginning of most dependence stories.
- Do not increase the dose or shorten the interval between doses without your doctor's permission [1].
- Do not give your tablets to anyone, no matter how much they insist, as this is a controlled medicine prescribed for you alone [1].
- Keep the medicine in its sealed container, out of reach of children, and away from heat and humidity [1].
- Ask your pharmacist about a safe way to dispose of surplus tablets instead of throwing them away.
If you notice that a family member is misusing their sedatives, you will find practical guidance in our question: How can I help a family member who misuses prescribed sedatives or sleeping pills?
Can sedatives be stopped suddenly?
No. Sedatives or their doses should not be stopped or reduced without consulting your doctor after regular use. MedlinePlus states that your doctor will usually lower the dose of alprazolam gradually [1]. The NHS confirms that abruptly stopping diazepam may cause withdrawal symptoms, and may worsen headaches, muscle pain and anxiety [2].
According to the drug guide on ClinicsJo, anxiety may return even worse than before (rebound anxiety), insomnia and tremors may appear, and seizures may occur with abrupt discontinuation after high doses. For this reason, tapering should always be gradual and supervised by a doctor.
Symptoms that require an immediate call to your doctor or emergency services
MedlinePlus notes that the following symptoms after reducing or stopping the dose require calling your doctor or seeking emergency treatment [1]:
- Seizures (fits), tremors or muscle spasms.
- Severe anxiety, or problems with sleep, concentration or memory.
- Ringing in the ears, or a burning or tingling sensation in the hands and feet.
- Seeing or hearing things others do not, or losing touch with reality.
- Thoughts of harming yourself or others.
What should not be combined with benzodiazepines?
This is the most important safety rule when using benzodiazepines, because the greatest danger arises from the combined depressant effect on the nervous system.
Alcohol and opioids
MedlinePlus warns that alprazolam may increase the risk of serious, life-threatening breathing problems, extreme drowsiness, or coma when used with certain medicines, including some cough and pain medicines [1]. The drug guide on ClinicsJo adds that combining it with opioids, including tramadol and its derivatives, and with alcohol may cause fatal respiratory depression. The NHS advises against drinking alcohol with diazepam because it increases the risk of side effects [2].
Other medicines and substances
- Drowsiness-causing antihistamines, some antidepressants and antipsychotics, and general anesthetics may not be compatible with diazepam [2].
- Over-the-counter allergy medicines, cimetidine, and St. John's Wort may interact with alprazolam, so ask your doctor or pharmacist before adding them [1].
- Grapefruit juice should be discussed with your doctor before consumption [1], and the NHS advises avoiding it with diazepam [2].
- Caffeinated drinks may sometimes reduce the effect of diazepam [2].
Write a list of all the medicines, vitamins and supplements you take, and bring it with you to every medical visit and in emergencies [1].
Driving, older adults and pregnancy: groups that need extra caution
Driving and machinery
Alprazolam may cause drowsiness, and you should not drive or operate machinery until you know how the medicine affects you [1]. Similarly, the NHS advises not to drive, cycle, or use tools and machinery until you feel better [2]. Dizziness, poor concentration, mental slowness and short-term memory impairment may also occur with these medicines.
Older adults
Alprazolam may not be recommended for people aged 65 and over, as more suitable or effective treatment options may be available [1]. The drug guide on ClinicsJo notes that in older adults, sedatives are associated with falls, fractures and confusion, which is why Lexotanil is avoided in this group or its dose is reduced. If one of your parents takes a sedative at night and then falls or seems confused, raise the matter with their doctor and do not stop the medicine suddenly.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Alprazolam may harm the fetus. A pregnant woman taking it should contact her doctor, and it should not be taken while breastfeeding [1]. The NHS advises not to take diazepam during pregnancy unless advised by a doctor or pharmacist, and to check with them before use while breastfeeding because it passes into breast milk in small amounts [2]. Our guide also warns against pregnancy, especially in the early and late stages. If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, discuss it with your doctor before making any change.
Health conditions that require telling your doctor
Tell your doctor if you have glaucoma (raised eye pressure), a history of seizures, problems with the lungs or breathing, or kidney or liver disease [1]. Also tell your dentist or surgeon that you are taking a sedative before any operation [1].
What are the safer alternatives for chronic anxiety and insomnia?
If anxiety is recurrent or affects your work, sleep and relationships, the best plan is based on a clear diagnosis and long-term treatment. According to the drug guide on ClinicsJo, root treatment relies on SSRI antidepressants combined with CBT, and a sedative may be used temporarily only at the start. In this context, a temporary combination of an antidepressant and a sedative is an accepted treatment pattern.
You can review the anxiety treatment service to learn about the available options, and diagnosis of depression and anxiety to understand how your condition is assessed. If your anxiety is daily and hard to control, you may find the article on Generalized Anxiety Disorder helpful, as well as the condition page in the directory.
When should you see a doctor and when should you go to the emergency room?
See your doctor soon if
- You feel the usual dose is no longer enough, or you need the medicine daily for longer than agreed.
- Troublesome drowsiness, dizziness, forgetfulness, or poor balance and coordination appear [1].
- You worry about running out of the medicine, or you are thinking of getting it from another source.
- You want to stop the medicine after regular use. Ask for a gradual reduction plan.
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department if
- Unusual dizziness, severe drowsiness, slow or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness occurs [1].
- The person collapses, has a seizure, or cannot be woken up [1].
- The person has taken more than the prescribed dose and shows symptoms such as drowsiness, confusion, poor coordination or loss of consciousness [1] [2].
- Allergic symptoms appear, such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, or difficulty breathing or swallowing [1].
- The person has thoughts of harming themselves or others [1].
When going to the emergency department, do not drive yourself. Ask someone else to take you or call an ambulance, and bring the medicine box, the leaflet and any other medicines you are taking [2].
How do you find the right doctor to prescribe and monitor benzodiazepines in Jordan?
A psychiatrist is the most suitable professional to assess anxiety and insomnia and to create a comprehensive plan that includes medication and psychological treatment. Browse psychiatrists in Jordan, or narrow your search by governorate: Psychiatry in Amman, Psychiatry in Irbid, Psychiatry in Zarqa, Psychiatry in Aqaba. ClinicsJo also has pages for the other governorates.
What should you check in a doctor's or clinic's profile?
- The listed specialty (psychiatry) and the services related to anxiety and insomnia.
- The clinic's location and working hours, and how to contact or book where the page provides this.
- Does the clinic appear to offer ongoing follow-up, rather than just a single prescription?
Useful questions to ask at your appointment
- Why this specific medicine, and what are the alternatives?
- How many weeks will I take it, and when is the review date?
- How will I stop it gradually when the time comes?
- Does it interact with my current medicines or my health condition?
- Can I drive or work safely while taking it?
ClinicsJo is a directory for finding doctors and clinics, and does not provide medical consultations or prescriptions. Your pharmacist can answer questions about how to use medicines and about interactions, while the prescription and treatment plan remain with your treating doctor.
Practical summary
Benzodiazepines are useful emergency tools when used for a specific short period under medical supervision. However, they do not treat chronic anxiety, and they may lead to tolerance and dependence if used for a long time. Three rules are enough to remember: a duration set in advance, no alcohol or opioids alongside them, and never stopping abruptly after regular use. If you feel you are relying on them, talk to your doctor honestly. Help is available, and there is no need to feel embarrassed.
Frequently asked questions
Are Xanax and Lexotanil benzodiazepines?
Yes. Xanax's active ingredient is alprazolam, and Lexotanil's active ingredient is bromazepam. Both belong to the benzodiazepine class. A doctor usually prescribes them for acute anxiety and panic attacks for a short period, and they are not considered a long-term treatment for chronic anxiety. Your doctor determines the dose and duration based on your condition.
What is the appropriate duration for using benzodiazepines?
They are used for a short period. The UK National Health Service recommends that diazepam not exceed 4 weeks. In our guide, Lexotanil is usually prescribed for about 2 to 4 weeks as a bridge. Your doctor will determine the exact duration, and it is best to agree on a review date with them from the start of treatment.
Can I stop the sedative suddenly if I feel better?
Not after regular use. Stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms such as severe anxiety, insomnia and tremors, and in rare cases seizures. Contact your doctor to set up a gradual reduction plan. If seizures, hallucinations or thoughts of harming yourself appear, go to the emergency department immediately.
Can I drink alcohol or take opioid painkillers with sedatives?
No, this is one of the most dangerous combinations. Alcohol and opioids, including tramadol and its derivatives, can increase drowsiness, suppress breathing, and may cause coma or respiratory arrest. Tell your doctor and pharmacist about everything you take, and if slow breathing or unresponsiveness occurs, call 911 immediately.
Are sedatives safe for older adults?
They require extreme caution. They may not be recommended for people aged 65 and over because they increase the risk of dizziness, confusion, falls and fractures. A safer option may be available, so discuss it with your doctor before starting. Do not stop a medicine your father or mother takes suddenly; instead, consult their doctor.
Can I drive while taking Xanax or Lexotanil?
It is best not to drive or operate machinery until you know how the medicine affects you, as it may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and slowed concentration and reactions. If drowsiness remains troublesome or affects your work or driving, tell your doctor so they can review the dose or treatment plan.
Sources and references
- Alprazolam: MedlinePlus Drug Information — MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine. Accessed: 2026-10-26.
- Diazepam — NHS (UK National Health Service). Accessed: 2026-10-26.