Benzodiazepine Conversion Calculator

Benzodiazepine conversion estimates how a dose of one medicine compares with a dose of another medicine in the same drug class. Clinicians may consult equivalency tables when switching treatment, evaluating total exposure, or planning a carefully supervised taper. The calculator first expresses the source dose as an approximate diazepam equivalent, then divides that amount by the target medicine's diazepam-equivalent potency. This creates a consistent bridge between drugs whose milligram strengths differ substantially. Equivalence is not the same as interchangeability. Published tables vary because clinical response depends on indication, duration of treatment, age, liver function, concurrent medicines, tolerance, active metabolites, and individual sensitivity. Half-life also matters. A short-acting medicine may produce sharper peaks and withdrawal symptoms between doses, while a long-acting medicine can accumulate over repeated administration. Two doses that appear equivalent by potency can therefore feel different and require different monitoring. The displayed single-dose result uses the selected source dose only. If a daily frequency is entered, the daily figure multiplies the converted dose by that frequency. For example, one milligram of alprazolam is represented here as approximately twenty milligrams of diazepam, while one milligram of lorazepam is represented as approximately ten milligrams of diazepam. Converting between those medicines uses their relative values rather than assuming equal milligram doses. This tool is educational and cannot determine a safe prescription, taper interval, or withdrawal plan. Abruptly reducing a benzodiazepine after regular use can cause severe withdrawal, including seizures, confusion, and dangerous autonomic symptoms. Combining benzodiazepines with alcohol, opioids, sleep medicines, or other sedatives can also cause profound sedation and breathing problems. Any change should be individualized and overseen by a qualified prescriber who knows the complete medical history. Use the estimate as a transparent way to understand a conversion table or discuss a proposed switch. Check the selected drug, dose, and daily frequency carefully, and remember that tablets and liquid formulations may limit practical dosing. Clinical judgment, gradual adjustment, and follow-up remain essential even when the arithmetic is correct.