Ativan

Generic name: Lorazepam

What is Ativan?

Ativan is an antianxiety agent, belonging to the drug class of benzodiazepines. Ativan is used for the management of anxiety disorders or for the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety or anxiety associated with depressive symptoms.

What is the most important information I should know about Ativan?

Patients with acute narrow-angle glaucoma should not take Ativan.

Patients with a primary depressive disorder or psychosis should not take Ativan, since pre-existing depression may emerge or worsen during use of benzodiazepines.

Use of benzodiazepines, including Ativan, whether used alone or in combination with other central nervous system depressants, may lead to potentially fatal respiratory depression.

Prolonged or excessive use of Ativan or other benzodiazepines may lead to physical and psychological dependence.

Patients taking Ativan may have a decreased tolerance for alcohol and other central nervous system depressants. Use caution when operating a vehicle or other machinery.

Who should not take Ativan?

Patients with acute narrow-angle glaucoma should not take Ativan, nor should patients with a primary depressive disorder unless they are being treated with antidepressants.

Elderly patients, as well as patients with liver or kidney diseases, should start on a low dose to minimize side effects, and should be monitored closely.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Ativan?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Ativan. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have been diagnosed with depression, acute narrow-angle glaucoma, liver or kidney disease, respiratory disorders, or cardiovascular disorders.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: For anxiety, most patients require an initial dose of 2 milligrams (mg) to 3 daily, divided in two to three doses.

For insomnia due to anxiety, a single daily dose of 2mg to 4mg may be given at bedtime.

For elderly patients, an initial dose of 1mg to 2mg per day in divided doses is recommended to reduce side effects.

The dose of Ativan may be increased gradually as needed, with the higher portion of the daily dose taken at bedtime.

How should I take Ativan?

Take Ativan exactly as directed, with the larger portion of the daily dose taken at bedtime. Do not take more than the prescribed dose, as serious side effects may occur.

What should I avoid while taking Ativan?

Avoid operating dangerous machinery, including motor vehicles, as Ativan may cause drowsiness.

Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants, as this can cause serious respiratory disorders.

Do not stop taking this medication without first consulting your doctor.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Ativan?

If Ativan is used with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Ativan with the following: alcohol, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, antihistamines, clozapine, and probenecid.

What are the possible side effects of Ativan?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: sedation, dizziness, weakness, unsteadiness, dose-dependant respiratory depression, fatigue, amnesia

Can I receive Ativan if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Because the use of these drugs is rarely a matter of urgency, the use of Ativan during pregnancy should be avoided. Ativan has been detected in human breast milk, therefore, it should not be administered to breastfeeding women, unless the expected benefit to the woman outweighs the potential risk to the infant.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Ativan?

Skip the dose and continue with your normal dosing schedule; never double dose.

How should I store Ativan?

Store at room temperature.