Lorazepam and clonazepam are both benzodiazepines prescribed for anxiety, panic disorders, and seizure-related conditions. Because they’re used for similar reasons, many people ask whether lorazepam and clonazepam are the same, which one is stronger, and how they compare to other benzodiazepines like Xanax or Valium.
While these medications belong to the same drug class, they differ in how fast they work, how long they last, and how they’re commonly used.
Brand Names and Generic Names
Before comparing the medications themselves, it helps to clarify names.
- Lorazepam
Brand name: Ativan - Clonazepam
Brand name: Klonopin
Both are available as generics in the U.S., which are chemically identical to their brand-name versions.
How Lorazepam and Clonazepam Work
Both medications enhance the effect of GABA, a neurotransmitter that slows activity in the brain and nervous system. This leads to reduced anxiety, muscle relaxation, sedation, and seizure control.
The main differences come down to onset and duration.
- Lorazepam (Ativan) tends to work relatively quickly and wears off sooner.
- Clonazepam (Klonopin) takes a bit longer to reach full effect but lasts much longer in the body.
Key Differences Between Lorazepam and Clonazepam
| Feature | Lorazepam (Ativan) | Clonazepam (Klonopin) |
|---|---|---|
| Drug class | Benzodiazepine | Benzodiazepine |
| Common uses | Acute anxiety, panic attacks, agitation, short-term use | Panic disorder, seizure disorders, long-term anxiety |
| Onset of action | Faster | Moderate |
| Duration of effect | Short to intermediate | Long |
| Typical dosing frequency | Multiple times per day | Once or twice per day |
| Sedation | Moderate to strong | Moderate |
| Risk of dependence | Yes | Yes |
| Controlled substance | Schedule IV | Schedule IV |
Tablet Identifiers and Dosage Forms
Below is a general identification table for common U.S. tablet strengths. Appearance can vary by manufacturer, but these are typical identifiers patients encounter.
| Medication | Brand / Generic | Dosage | Common Tablet Description* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lorazepam | Ativan (brand) | 0.5 mg | White, round |
| Lorazepam | Ativan (brand) | 1 mg | White, round |
| Lorazepam | Ativan (brand) | 2 mg | White, round |
| Lorazepam | Generic lorazepam | 0.5 mg | White, round or oval |
| Lorazepam | Generic lorazepam | 1 mg | White, round or oval |
| Lorazepam | Generic lorazepam | 2 mg | White, round or oval |
| Clonazepam | Klonopin (brand) | 0.5 mg | Light orange, round |
| Clonazepam | Klonopin (brand) | 1 mg | Light blue, round |
| Clonazepam | Klonopin (brand) | 2 mg | White, round |
| Clonazepam | Generic clonazepam | 0.5 mg | Orange or yellow, various shapes |
| Clonazepam | Generic clonazepam | 1 mg | Blue or green, various shapes |
| Clonazepam | Generic clonazepam | 2 mg | White, oval or round |
*Tablet appearance may vary by manufacturer. Always verify pills using a pharmacy or pill identifier.
Is Lorazepam Stronger Than Clonazepam?
“Stronger” depends on what’s being measured.
- Lorazepam often feels stronger at first because it works faster.
- Clonazepam may feel stronger overall because it lasts longer and stays in the system.
In clinical practice, clonazepam is often considered more potent per milligram, but direct comparisons are not one-to-one.
How These Compare to Other Benzodiazepines
- Lorazepam vs Valium (diazepam)
Lorazepam is shorter-acting and often preferred for acute anxiety. Valium lasts much longer. - Clonazepam vs Xanax (alprazolam)
Clonazepam lasts significantly longer than Xanax, which is shorter-acting and more prone to rebound anxiety.
Sleep and Sedation Considerations
Neither lorazepam nor clonazepam is approved as a primary sleep medication, though both can cause drowsiness.
- Clonazepam may help with sleep continuity due to its longer duration.
- Lorazepam may help with falling asleep but is more likely to wear off overnight.
Using benzodiazepines regularly for sleep increases the risk of tolerance and dependence.
Dependence and Withdrawal Risk
Both medications carry a risk of physical dependence when used regularly. Stopping suddenly can cause:
- Anxiety or panic
- Insomnia
- Tremors
- In severe cases, seizures
Because clonazepam lasts longer, withdrawal symptoms may start later but persist longer.
Final Thoughts
Lorazepam and clonazepam are similar medications with important differences in how long they last and how they’re commonly used. Understanding those differences can help explain why one may be prescribed over the other, and why both require caution with long-term use.
If benzodiazepine use has become difficult to manage, or stopping feels unsafe, professional guidance is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lorazepam and Clonazepam
What is the difference between lorazepam and clonazepam?
Lorazepam works faster but doesn’t last as long. Clonazepam lasts longer and is often used for ongoing anxiety or seizure disorders.
Is clonazepam the same as lorazepam?
No. They are both benzodiazepines but differ in duration, potency, and typical use.
Is Ativan stronger than Klonopin?
Ativan may feel stronger initially due to faster onset, but Klonopin is generally considered more potent per milligram and longer-acting.
Is lorazepam Valium?
No. Lorazepam (Ativan) and Valium (diazepam) are different benzodiazepines with different durations and uses.
Which is stronger, Ativan or Valium?
Ativan acts faster, while Valium lasts longer. Strength depends on context and dosing.
Is clonazepam a sleeping pill?
No. Clonazepam is not approved as a sleep medication, though it can cause sedation.
Is Klonopin stronger than Xanax?
Klonopin lasts longer than Xanax and is often considered more potent per dose, but effects vary by individual.
Sources
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- National Library of Medicine. (2025, November 15). Clonazepam: MedlinePlus drug information. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682279.html
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2016, September). Ativan (lorazepam) tablets: Prescribing information (Labeling). https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/017794s044lbl.pdf
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021, February). Klonopin (clonazepam) tablets: Prescribing information (Labeling). https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/017533s061lbl.pdf
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- National Library of Medicine. (n.d.). Klonopin (clonazepam) tablet: Drug label information (DailyMed). https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=cfa0d79a-843c-4b88-95a1-e9511d649ca1
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