Generic name: LorazepamBrand names: Ativan
Ativan is used in the treatment of anxiety disorders and for short-term (up to 4 months) relief of the symptoms of anxiety. It belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines.
Tolerance and dependence can develop with the use of Ativan. You may experience withdrawal symptoms if you stop using it abruptly. Only your doctor should advise you to discontinue or change your dose.
Take Ativan exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Ativan.
If you experience any side effects, it will usually be at the beginning of your treatment; they will probably disappear as you continue to take the drug, or if your dosage is reduced.
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Ativan or similar drugs such as Valium, you should not take Ativan.
Also avoid Ativan if you have the eye disease, acute narrow-angle glaucoma.
Anxiety or tension related to everyday stress usually does not require treatment with Ativan. Discuss your symptoms thoroughly with your doctor.
Ativan may cause you to become drowsy or less alert; therefore, driving or operating dangerous machinery or participating in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness is not recommended.
If you are severely depressed or have suffered from severe depression, consult with your doctor before taking Ativan.
If you have decreased kidney or liver function, use of Ativan should be discussed with your doctor.
If you are an older person or if you have been using Ativan for a prolonged period of time, your doctor will watch you closely for stomach and upper intestinal problems.
Ativan may intensify the effects of alcohol. Avoid alcohol while taking Ativan.
If Ativan is taken 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 barbiturates (amobarbital, phenobarbital, secobarbital) or sedative-type medications such as diazepam and triazolam.
Do not take Ativan if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. There is an increased risk of birth defects. It is not known whether Ativan appears in breast milk. If Ativan is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.
ADULTS
The usual recommended dosage is a total of 2 to 6 milligrams per day divided into smaller doses. The largest dose should be taken at bedtime. The daily dose may vary from 1 to 10 milligrams.
Anxiety
The usual starting dose is a total of 2 to 3 milligrams per day taken in 2 or 3 smaller doses.
Insomnia Due to Anxiety
A single daily dose of 2 to 4 milligrams may be taken, usually at bedtime.
CHILDREN
The safety and effectiveness of Ativan have not been established in children under 12 years of age.
OLDER ADULTS
The usual starting dosage for older adults and those in a weakened condition should not exceed a total of 1 to 2 milligrams per day, divided into smaller doses, to avoid oversedation. This dose can be adjusted by your doctor as needed.
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. An overdose of Ativan can be fatal, though this is rare. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.