Benzodiazepine Conversion Calculator
Convert a dose of one benzodiazepine into an approximately equivalent dose of another, using standard diazepam-equivalent values. Choose the drug you're converting from, the drug you're converting to, and the dose. The calculator first works out the diazepam-equivalent dose, then the equivalent dose of the target drug. These are approximate guides only — always have a clinician supervise any benzodiazepine switch or taper.
Rates and fees change frequently. Always confirm the current figures
with the official authority before relying on this result.
Formula
Diazepam-eq = (dose ÷ from-drug 10 mg-equivalent) × 10; Target dose = (Diazepam-eq ÷ 10) × to-drug 10 mg-equivalent
- Each benzodiazepine has an approximate dose that is equivalent to 10 mg of diazepam (e.g. ~0.5 mg alprazolam, ~1 mg lorazepam, ~0.5 mg clonazepam).
- The entered dose is first converted to a diazepam-equivalent, then to the target drug using its own diazepam equivalence.
- Equivalences are approximate and vary between published sources; half-lives and onset also differ, so conversions are starting points, not exact substitutions.
- Switching benzodiazepines (often via long-acting diazepam) and tapering should always be done gradually under medical supervision.
- This tool is educational and does not account for individual tolerance, age, liver function, or other medications.
1 mg alprazolam → diazepam
Inputs
- Convert From: alprazolam
- Dose (mg): 1
- Convert To: diazepam
1 mg alprazolam ÷ 0.5 mg (its 10 mg-diazepam equivalent) × 10 = 20 mg diazepam-equivalent. Converting to diazepam gives about 20 mg. Always confirm with a clinician.
Frequently asked questions
How does benzodiazepine conversion work?
Each benzodiazepine is assigned a dose equivalent to 10 mg of diazepam. The tool converts your dose to a diazepam-equivalent, then to the target drug's equivalent dose.
Are these conversions exact?
No. Equivalency values are approximate and differ between references. Drugs also vary in half-life and potency, so conversions are guides, not precise substitutions.
Why is diazepam used as the reference?
Diazepam is long-acting and commonly used as the common currency for benzodiazepine equivalence, especially when switching to support a gradual taper.
Can I switch benzodiazepines on my own?
No. Changing or tapering benzodiazepines should be supervised by a clinician, who accounts for tolerance, withdrawal risk, and your overall health.