May 7, - Lorazepam (Ativan) is approved for management of anxiety disorders, short-term (≤ 4 months) relief of anxiety symptoms, anxiety associated with depressive symptoms, or anxiety/stress-associated insomnia. Important distinction here is Xanax has approval for use in panic disorder, Ativan does not. Sep 1, - 1 Answer - Posted in: xanax, depression, anxiety, insomnia, lorazepam - Answer: The differences: Short answer Lorazepam and Xanax are Is Ativan milder than Xanax? Does anyone know? Apr 5, - Alprazolam (Xanax®) vs Lorazepam (Ativan®) - comparative analysis covers differences between benzodiazepines Alprazolam and.