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Ativan Classification: Sedative (Benzodiazepine) .
Other
Ativan Names: Lorazepam Intensol, Lorazepam
Ativan
is used to treat:
Anxiety Disorders
Short-term anxiety related to stress and tension of every day life
General Directions for Taking
Ativan:
Take Ativan only as directed. DO NOT skip or take more
Ativan than prescribed.
If you miss a dose of Ativan, take missed Ativan dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next
Ativan dose, take only 1 Ativan dose. DO NOT double up the
doses of Ativan.
Take Ativan with food to prevent stomach upset.
You may mix medicated solutions with drinks (water or juices) or soft food like pudding and applesauce.
Use hard candy or saliva substitutes to limit mouth dryness.
Continue with counseling, psychotherapy and behavior modification therapy as prescribed by your doctor.
See your doctor regularly to monitor the effectiveness of
Ativan with lab tests, anxiety screenings, and a physical exam.
Ativan Contraindications:
Allergies - Hypersensitivity to
Ativan or Ativan components
Patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, history of drug or alcohol abuse, severe psychiatric conditions, or a coma
Children less than 12 years of age
Use
Ativan with caution in:
Pregnancy and Breast Feeding -
Ativan may not be safe for your baby. Talk to your doctor about risks and
benefits of Ativan.
Patients with liver, kidney or lung disorders; depression; debilitating illnesses; or history of suicidal thoughts
Elderly patients - May require lowest Ativan dose necessary to control anxiety or panic disorder.
Common Ativan Side Effects:
May occur during the first few days after beginning therapy, but usually resolve:
Dizziness, drowsiness, lethargy, loss of balance, headaches, changes in libido (sexual drive and desire), changes in appetite and weight, dry mouth, problems with urination or upset stomach
Serious Ativan Side Effects:
Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:
Pounding or irregular heartbeat; skin rash; blurred vision; slurred speech, confusion, mental depression or behavior changes; nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea or constipation.
Allergic reaction symptoms such as a red skin rash; itching; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat; wheezing; chest pain; and difficulty breathing
Ativan Interactions:
Drug - There are many medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, which will alter the action of
Ativan. Some include antidepressants; antihistamines; antacids; other benzodiazepines; birth control pills, antibiotics, anti-fungals (azole class), sleeping pills, barbiturates, narcotics, tranquilizers, anticonvulsants, anti-asthma medicines like Theophylline; anti-gout medicine, and anti-Parkinsonian medication.
It is extremely important that you consult with your doctor about dosing schedules if you take a variety of medications along with
Ativan. DO NOT take any new medication without talking with your doctor first.
Ativan Warnings:
Ativan Overdose - Can lead to unconsciousness and even death due to respiratory arrest. Especially if
Ativan is taken with alcoholic beverages.
Avoid alcoholic beverages. Increases drowsiness and dizziness.
DO NOT drive or operate heavy machinery. May cause drowsiness and lightheadedness.
DO NOT stop taking Ativan abruptly. This may cause severe
Ativan withdrawal symptoms including seizures, sweating, cramps, and muscle tremors.
Notify your doctor if your anxiety worsens despite taking the
Ativan as directed. Chronic use of Ativan has been known to lead to physical and psychological dependence.
Keep Ativan out of reach of children and pets.
General
Ativan Dosage Information:
Ativan dosing is individually based. Talk to your doctor about your specific
Ativan dosing schedule:
Ativan Storage:
Keep Ativan at room temperature.
Protect
Ativan from moisture and sunlight.
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