Benzodiazepine Conversion Calculator (Diazepam Equivalents)
Compare benzodiazepine doses using the diazepam-equivalent values from the Ashton Manual. Example: 1 mg of lorazepam is roughly equal to 10 mg of diazepam or 0.5 mg of alprazolam.
Show steps
How to use the Benzodiazepine Conversion Calculator (Diazepam Equivalents)
- Enter the values in the fields.
- Press Calculate to see the result with the steps shown.
Formula and method
Diazepam equivalent (mg) = dose / (mg of the starting drug equal to 10 mg diazepam) x 10. Ashton values for 10 mg diazepam: alprazolam 0.5, lorazepam 1, clonazepam 0.5, chlordiazepoxide 25, temazepam 20, oxazepam 20 mg.
Approximate equivalents to 10 mg diazepam (Ashton Manual)
| Benzodiazepine | Equivalent dose | Half-life (including active metabolites) |
|---|---|---|
| Diazepam | 10 mg | 20 to 100 hours |
| Alprazolam | 0.5 mg | 6 to 12 hours |
| Lorazepam | 1 mg | 10 to 20 hours |
| Clonazepam | 0.5 mg | 18 to 50 hours |
| Chlordiazepoxide | 25 mg | 5 to 100 hours |
| Temazepam | 20 mg | 8 to 22 hours |
| Oxazepam | 20 mg | 4 to 15 hours |
Why sources disagree
Published equivalents vary, especially for alprazolam and clonazepam, because potency differs between people and with the time frame. Clinicians choose conservative conversions.
Tapering safely
Gradual reductions, often 5 to 10% every one to two weeks, guided by a prescriber, lower the chance of withdrawal. Never taper on your own.
Risks of combining
Mixing benzodiazepines with opioids, alcohol or sleep medicines raises the risk of dangerous breathing problems. This calculator is for education and is not medical advice. Never change or start a medicine without the advice of a pharmacist or prescriber, and always follow the label.
Frequently asked questions
What is the diazepam equivalent of lorazepam?
About 10 mg diazepam to 1 mg lorazepam.
Is the conversion exact?
No, it is an estimate.
Why convert to diazepam?
Its long half-life makes tapers smoother.
Can I taper myself?
No; withdrawal can be dangerous.
What are withdrawal symptoms?
Anxiety, insomnia, tremor and, rarely, seizures.
Where can I get help?
Your prescriber or SAMHSA 1-800-662-4357.
Sources
- Ashton CH. Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw (the Ashton Manual)
- SAMHSA National Helpline
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