Which is a short-acting benzodiazepine?

Alprazolam is classified as a short-acting benzodiazepine due to its pharmacokinetic properties, particularly its relatively rapid onset and shorter duration of action compared to other benzodiazepines. This characteristic makes it beneficial for addressing acute anxiety episodes, providing quick relief for individuals experiencing panic attacks or severe anxiety.

In contrast, other benzodiazepines listed, such as Klonopin (clonazepam), chlordiazepoxide, and diazepam, are often categorized as long-acting due to their extended effects and longer half-lives. This distinction is crucial for treatment planning in clinical practice, as the choice of benzodiazepine can be tailored to the patient's specific needs regarding onset and duration of anxiety relief or sedation. The shorter duration of action of alprazolam may be ideal for some patients looking for immediate tension relief without the prolonged sedation associated with longer-acting options.