Lexapro vs Ativan: side-by-side comparison
Lexapro (Anti-Depressants) and Ativan (Anti-anxiety Medications) belong to different therapeutic classes and are rarely interchangeable. This page compares the medications' purposes, mechanisms and the situations where each is used.
| Property | Lexapro | Ativan |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Escitalopram | Lorazepam |
| Manufacturer | Forest/Allergan | Pfizer |
| Class | Anti-Depressants | Anti-anxiety Medications |
| Strengths | 5mg, 10mg, 20mg | 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg |
| Forms | tablet | tablet, oral concentrate, injection |
What's the same
Lexapro and Ativan are used in very different patients, and the points in common are limited. The main shared element is that both meet regulatory standards for efficacy and safety and benefit from pharmacist oversight.
Key differences
Lexapro belongs to Anti-Depressants while Ativan belongs to Anti-anxiety Medications. Indications, mechanisms and target populations differ. The comparison is most useful when a clinician has mentioned both medications and the patient wants to understand where each fits.
Mechanism and action
Lexapro: Lexapro acts by selectively inhibiting the serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT) at the synapse, increasing serotonin availability for postsynaptic receptors. Ativan: Lorazepam binds the benzodiazepine site of the GABA-A receptor and allosterically enhances inhibitory chloride conductance.
When Lexapro is preferred
Lexapro is approved for major depressive disorder and generalised anxiety disorder in adults and adolescents 12 years and older (depression) and adults (generalised anxiety).
When Ativan is preferred
Ativan is approved in adults for the short-term management of anxiety disorders and anxiety-related insomnia.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lexapro or Ativan better? ▾
Lexapro and Ativan are not interchangeable — they treat different conditions. Asking which is "better" is meaningful only when a clinician has weighed both for the same specific clinical scenario.
Can I switch from Lexapro to Ativan? ▾
Switching between Lexapro and Ativan is rarely an appropriate decision since they belong to different classes and treat different conditions. The real question is usually whether the diagnosis calls for one medication or the other — which the prescriber resolves.
Do Lexapro and Ativan have the same side effects? ▾
No — they belong to different classes and have distinct side-effect profiles. Each medication has its own prescribing information.
More Lexapro comparisons
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.