Interactive Calculator
Estimate approximate diazepam-equivalent dose and convert between common benzodiazepines.
Educational use only. Benzodiazepine equivalence is approximate and varies by person, age, liver function, route, duration of use, and co-medications. Do not self-adjust prescriptions. Consult a licensed clinician.
What this benzodiazepine conversion calculator does
This calculator gives an estimated dose equivalence between commonly prescribed benzodiazepines by first converting your entered dose into a diazepam-equivalent value, then converting that value to a target medication. It is useful for understanding rough potency differences (for example, alprazolam is typically much more potent per mg than diazepam).
The tool can support medication review discussions with your doctor, pharmacist, or addiction specialist. It should not be used to design a personal taper plan without supervision.
How to use it
- Select your current benzodiazepine.
- Enter the dose in milligrams (mg).
- Select the target benzodiazepine.
- Click Calculate to see the approximate equivalent dose.
Reference equivalence chart used by the calculator
The table below shows the approximate dose of each medication that is often considered equivalent to 10 mg diazepam.
| Medication | Approximate dose equivalent to 10 mg diazepam | Relative potency note |
|---|
Why conversion values vary
1) Inter-individual biology
People metabolize benzodiazepines differently. Age, genetics, liver function, body composition, and other medicines can substantially alter effects.
2) Short- vs long-acting agents
A numerical equivalent does not guarantee the same clinical effect hour-to-hour. Onset speed, half-life, and active metabolites differ across drugs.
3) Tolerance and duration of use
Someone taking a medication for years may respond differently than someone with intermittent use. Long-term use can change receptor sensitivity and withdrawal profile.
Clinical context matters
In practice, clinicians combine dose equivalence with symptom tracking, safety monitoring, and individualized pacing. For deprescribing, many providers prefer gradual, monitored reductions and regular follow-up.
- Never stop daily benzodiazepines abruptly without medical guidance.
- Discuss seizure risk and withdrawal risk with your clinician.
- Ask about non-drug supports: sleep hygiene, CBT-I, anxiety therapy, and stress management.
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a taper calculator?
Not exactly. This is an equivalence estimator, not a personalized taper schedule generator. A safe taper requires clinical history and ongoing monitoring.
Can I use this for emergency substitution?
No. Emergency substitution decisions should be made by a licensed medical professional who can assess your full clinical situation.
Which reference source is used?
Values are based on commonly cited clinical equivalence ranges used in educational materials and prescribing references. Different guidelines may present slightly different numbers.