Ativan

What is Ativan?

Ativan or its generic equivalent Lorazepam are used to treat anxiety in patients who are prone to a variety of fears. Chemicals within the brain can affect the potential for anxiety. Ativan works to interact with those chemicals to disrupt and reduce anxiety. Many have found relief using this drug.

Important information about Ativan

Benzodiazepines including Lorazepam can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. If you know you are allergic to Lorazepam you should discuss other options with your health care provider. Ativan has also shown to cause birth defects in children so if you’re pregnant or may become pregnant you may want to avoid this drug. If you are breastfeeding an infant you should also avoid Ativan.

What to avoid while taking Ativan

This medication can cause drowsiness, which may be amplified by either drinking alcohol or by taking other medications that may similarly elicit a drowsy response such as cold medications and sleeping aids.

Ativan can be addictive and may not be suited to those who may have a history of other drug or alcohol addictions. You will need to honestly discuss past substance abuse issues with your doctor.

Possible side effects of Ativan

As with virtually all medications there are side effects to consider when discussing Ativan. They include the following…

• Depression
• Suicidal thoughts
• Agitation
• Aggressive behavior
• Hallucinations
• Fainting
• Blurred vision
• Weakness
• Skin rash
• Nausea
• Amnesia
• Weakness
• Lack of Coordination

You should talk with your primary health care provider to determine if other side effects may prove troubling to your anxiety care.

What do I do if I overdose on Ativan?

It is important to know that an overdose of Ativan can be fatal. If you accidentally take an extra dose you should seek medical intervention. Drowsiness will be the most common first symptom. If not address it can lead to a deep sleep or even a coma. Some who overdose on Ativan pass out for a period of time.

Warnings

Ativan should only be taken as prescribed by a physician. A patient should not think that if they experience a higher degree of anxiety that they should take an additional dose. You must follow label directions. Long-term use of Ativan is not recommended. Because it is a barbiturate a patient can become addicted to the drug. Company data indicates a use of no more than 4-months. If the drug is used for the full 4-months there may be withdrawal symptoms. A slow decrease in dose may be beneficial for patients seeking to stop the use of Ativan. Keep this medication out of the reach of others who may have a history of drug abuse.

Where can I get more information?

For a fact sheet from Ativan manufacturer Biovail Pharmaceuticals, Inc click here.
You can also find additional information through WebMD. The FDA also provides a length report on Ativan here. Some of the best information you will receive is to work closely with your doctor and pharmacist to monitor your goals and any interactions that might occur while treating your anxiety.

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