What is Ativan?

lorazepam, belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines. It is thought that benzodiazepines work by enhancing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.

Ativan is used in adults and children at least 12 years old to treat anxiety disorders.

Ativan is also used to treat insomnia caused by anxiety or temporary situational stress.

Ativan is sometimes used to treat nausea and vomiting from cancer treatment and to control agitation caused by alcohol withdrawal.

How should I take Ativan?(lorazepam)

Take Ativan exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Never use Ativan in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of this medicine.lorazepam

Never share Ativan with another person, especially someone with a history of drug addiction. MISUSE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medicine where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.

Do not stop using Ativan without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use.

Store Ativan tablets tightly closed at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Keep your medicine in a place where no one can use it improperly.

Ativan side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Ativan: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Lorazepam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. A person caring for you should seek emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, blue colored lips, or if you are hard to wake up.

Ativan may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe drowsiness;
• unusual changes in mood or behavior, being agitated or talkative;
• sudden restless feeling or excitement;
• seizures, depression, thinking problems, thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself;
• confusion, aggression, hallucinations;
• sleep problems (insomnia);
• vision changes; or
• dark urine, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Drowsiness or dizziness may last longer in older adults. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury.