Ativan also known as Lorazepam Most Common Medical Uses Lorazepam affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. Lorazepam is most commonly used to relieve anxiety, nervousness, and tension associated with anxiety disorders. It is also used to treat certain types of seizure disorders and to relieve insomnia (induce sleep). Lorazepam may also be used for purposes other than those listed in here. How to Take This Medication Take lorazepam exactly as directed by your doctor. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Do not take more than is prescribed for you. Lorazepam is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if lorazepam is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose. Possible Side Effects Stop taking lorazepam and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; or hives); sores in the mouth or throat; yellowing of the skin or eyes; a rash; hallucinations or severe confusion; or changes in vision. Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take lorazepam and talk to your doctor if you experience drowsiness, dizziness, or clumsiness; depression; nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. Precautions Do not take lorazepam if you have narrow-angle glaucoma. Lorazepam may worsen this condition. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease; have liver disease; have asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or another respiratory disease; or are depressed or have suicidal thoughts. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby. Drug Interactions Lorazepam may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor. Antacids may decrease the effects of lorazepam. Separate doses of an antacid and lorazepam by several hours whenever possible. Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with lorazepam. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products. Missed Dose Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication. A double dose could be dangerous. Storage Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children. Notes Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Lorazepam will cause drowsiness and may cause dizziness. Avoid alcohol while taking lorazepam. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by lorazepam. Alcohol may also increase the risk of having a seizure if lorazepam is being taken for a seizure condition. Lorazepam is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if lorazepam is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose. Disclaimer This Information may change. Therefore, read the product information leaflet provided with the product before using it !!
