When You Can't Get Loreev XR, What Are Your Options?

If you've been prescribed Loreev XR and can't find it at your pharmacy — or the cost is too high — you may be wondering what alternatives exist. The good news is that there are several effective options for treating anxiety, and your doctor can help you find one that works.

This article covers what Loreev XR is, how it works, and the most common alternatives your doctor might consider if you can't fill your prescription. Important: Never stop taking Loreev XR or switch medications on your own. Abruptly stopping a benzodiazepine can cause serious and potentially life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. Always work with your doctor to make any changes.

What Is Loreev XR?

Loreev XR is the brand name for extended-release Lorazepam, a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders in adults. It was approved by the FDA in August 2021 and is manufactured by Almatica Pharma.

Unlike regular Lorazepam tablets (brand name Ativan), which are typically taken two to three times per day, Loreev XR is taken once daily in the morning. It comes in 1 mg, 1.5 mg, 2 mg, and 3 mg extended-release capsules.

Loreev XR is specifically indicated for adults who are already on a stable, evenly divided, three-times-daily dose of Lorazepam tablets. It's designed as a convenience switch — same medication, fewer doses per day. For a full overview, visit our article on what Loreev XR is and how to use it.

How Does Loreev XR Work?

Loreev XR works by enhancing the effects of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a natural chemical in the brain that promotes calm and reduces anxiety. Benzodiazepines like Lorazepam bind to GABA-A receptors and increase GABA's inhibitory effect, which produces feelings of relaxation and sedation.

The extended-release formulation uses special sustained-release beads that slowly release Lorazepam over 24 hours. This provides more consistent blood levels throughout the day compared to the peaks and valleys that can occur with immediate-release tablets taken multiple times daily. Learn more in our detailed explanation of how Loreev XR works.

Alternative #1: Immediate-Release Lorazepam (Generic Ativan)

The most direct alternative to Loreev XR is simply going back to immediate-release Lorazepam tablets. This is the same active medication — the only difference is the dosing schedule.

• How it's taken: Typically 0.5 mg to 2 mg, two to three times daily
• Cost: Very affordable — generic Lorazepam costs approximately $5 to $29 for a 30-day supply
• Availability: Widely available at virtually every pharmacy
• Pros: Same active ingredient, extensively studied, very inexpensive
• Cons: Requires multiple daily doses, which some patients find inconvenient or easy to forget

If cost or availability is driving your search for alternatives, going back to generic Lorazepam tablets may be the simplest solution. Talk to your doctor about the appropriate dosing.

Alternative #2: Clonazepam (Klonopin)

Clonazepam is another benzodiazepine that's commonly used for anxiety and panic disorders. It has a longer duration of action than immediate-release Lorazepam, which means it can sometimes be taken less frequently.

• How it's taken: Typically 0.25 mg to 2 mg, twice daily
• Cost: Generic Clonazepam costs approximately $5 to $20 for a 30-day supply
• Availability: Widely available as a generic
• Pros: Longer-acting than immediate-release Lorazepam, only needs to be taken twice daily, very affordable
• Cons: Still a controlled substance (Schedule IV) with risks of dependence and abuse; different potency than Lorazepam so dosing must be carefully adjusted

Alternative #3: Buspirone (Buspar)

Buspirone is a non-benzodiazepine medication used specifically for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It works differently from Lorazepam and is not a controlled substance.

• How it's taken: Typically 5 mg to 15 mg, two to three times daily
• Cost: Generic Buspirone costs approximately $5 to $30 for a 30-day supply
• Availability: Widely available as a generic
• Pros: Not a controlled substance, no risk of physical dependence, no sedation at typical doses, good long-term option
• Cons: Takes 2 to 4 weeks to reach full effect (not useful for immediate relief), doesn't work for panic attacks, may not be effective for patients who have responded well to benzodiazepines

Alternative #4: Hydroxyzine (Vistaril)

Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine that has anxiety-reducing properties. It's often used for short-term or situational anxiety.

• How it's taken: Typically 25 mg to 100 mg, up to four times daily as needed
• Cost: Generic Hydroxyzine costs approximately $5 to $20 for a 30-day supply
• Availability: Widely available as a generic
• Pros: Not a controlled substance, no risk of dependence, works relatively quickly (within 30-60 minutes), can also help with sleep
• Cons: Can cause drowsiness and dry mouth, may not be as effective as benzodiazepines for severe anxiety, sedating effects can interfere with daily activities

A Note About Switching Medications

Never stop taking Loreev XR suddenly without talking to your doctor. Benzodiazepines require careful tapering to avoid serious withdrawal symptoms, which can include seizures, anxiety rebound, insomnia, and tremors. Your doctor will create a plan to safely transition you to an alternative if needed.

Also, remember that what works for one person may not work for another. Your doctor will consider your medical history, other medications you take, and the severity of your anxiety when recommending an alternative. For more on drug interactions to watch for, see our Loreev XR drug interactions guide.

Final Thoughts

If you can't find or afford Loreev XR, you have options. The closest alternative is simply switching back to generic immediate-release Lorazepam tablets, which are widely available and cost as little as $5 per month. For patients looking to move away from benzodiazepines, Buspirone and Hydroxyzine offer non-controlled alternatives.

Before making any changes, talk to your doctor. And if you'd still prefer to stay on Loreev XR, try using Medfinder to locate a pharmacy that has it in stock — or check out our tips for finding Loreev XR near you. You might also find savings through the manufacturer's copay card, which we detail in our savings guide.