Ativan Drug Information

Ativan, the brand name for lorazepam, is part of a group of drugs called benzodiazepines. Used to treat anxiety disorders, Ativan works on chemicals in the brain that can become unbalanced and lead to anxiety. It can also be used for short-term relief of anxiety systems or anxiety attributed to depressive conditions. Ativan is not meant for treatment of anxiety from common, everyday stressors. It is offered in tablet form and is meant to be taken orally in its whole form. Ativan tablets come in dosages of 0.5 mg, 1 mg and 2 mg of lorazepam. Doses should be individualized by a doctor, according to patients’ responses to the drug.

Ativan Can Lead to Dependence and Addiction

Ativan is a central nervous system depressant and can be habit-forming and lead to physical and psychological dependence if used in high doses or for long periods of time. Those with a history of other addictions are more prone to dependency with Ativan. Dosages should be tapered gradually with help from a doctor. Trying to abruptly stop use after a prolonged period can trigger intense withdrawal symptoms which can include trouble concentrating, blurred vision, diarrhea, loss of appetite, muscle twitches, numbness, tingling, increased sensations and seizures. Taking more than what’s prescribed, or more frequently than prescribed can be extremely dangerous and lead to overdose or death. The risk of dependence is lower when Ativan is used at prescribed levels in the short term.

Side Effects Associated with Ativan

Some of the less common side effects of benzodiazepine use include respiratory depression, seizures, sedation, slurred speech, jaundice, incontinence, irritability, memory impairment, anorexia and menstrual problems. The most frequently reported side effects include sedation, dizziness, weakness and unsteadiness. Others include confusion, drowsiness, fatigue, disorientation, depression, euphoria, suicidal ideation or attempt, disinhibition, vertigo, visual disturbances, change in libido, headache, apnea, coma, constipation, allergic skin reactions and nausea. It is also possible to experience a decrease in blood pressure and hypotension, along with agitation, hostility and anxiety.

Ativan Warnings

When used for a prolonged period, Ativan can build up in the system, which causes patients to develop a tolerance and take more to achieve the same relief from anxiety. The use of benzodiazepines in combination with other substances can cause additional depression of the central nervous system. Substances include alcohol, psychotropic medication, antihistamines, anticonvulsants and other drugs. Patients taking Ativan need to be aware that caution should be taken when performing tasks that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the sedative effects. Ativan can pass through breast milk, and the use in pregnant women could result in congenital malformations of the fetus. An overdose on benzodiazepines can be fatal and symptoms range from drowsiness to coma.

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