I have researched that both medications affect the GABA(A) receptor sites, which causes general neurological inhibition. However, none of my doctors have been able to explain why this should help my mind "resynchronize". The difference is like night and day; in either case, I am highly intelligent, but without these types of medications my mind is highly "fragmented" such that I can only focus on one specific thing at a time. The medication allows all of the functional units of my brain to cross-communicate making "thinking" almost effortless (instead of requiring heavy concentration for basic tasks).

The standard dosage of butalbital (2 pills, 100mg total I think) works fine, but only for 4 hours. I have switched to Alprazolam XR 2 mg, but this appears to be too high of a dosage as it puts me to sleep. Are they similar enough in nature that I should try reduced dosage of the Xanax XR? Can someone with medical background explain the similarities/differences of these two medications?