 |
|
|
Classification: Sedative (Benzodiazepine) .
Other Names: Lorazepam Intensol, Lorazepam
Used to treat:
Anxiety Disorders
Short-term anxiety related to stress and tension of every day life
General Directions for Taking Medication:
Take only as directed. DO NOT skip or take more medicine than prescribed.
If you miss a dose, take missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, take only 1 dose. DO NOT double up the doses.
Take 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 this medication with lab tests, anxiety screenings, and a physical exam.
Contraindications:
Allergies - Hypersensitivity to this medication or its 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 with caution in:
Pregnancy and Breast Feeding - May not be safe for your baby. Talk to your doctor about risks and benefits.
Patients with liver, kidney or lung disorders; depression; debilitating illnesses; or history of suicidal thoughts
Elderly patients - May require lowest dose necessary to control anxiety or panic disorder.
Common 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 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
Interactions:
Drug - There are many medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, which will alter the action of this medication. 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 this medication. DO NOT take any new medication without talking with your doctor first.
Warnings:
Overdose - Can lead to unconsciousness and even death due to respiratory arrest. Especially if 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 this medication abruptly. This may cause severe withdrawal symptoms including seizures, sweating, cramps, and muscle tremors.
Notify your doctor if your anxiety worsens despite taking the medication as directed. Chronic use of this medication has been known to lead to physical and psychological dependence.
Keep this medication and all others out of reach of children and pets.
General Dosage Information:
Dosing is individually based. Talk to your doctor about your specific dosing schedule:
Storage:
Keep at room temperature.
Protect from moisture and sunlight.
|
| |
 |
| |
|
|
|
 |
