Ativan (Lorazepam)
October 13th, 2011 by admin1
Lorazepam or more commonly known as Ativan is a drug that is commonly used to treat anxiety. Ativan is in a drug class called benzodiazepines which helps to slow brain activity which helps the individual relax and not feel as anxious. Ativan is also used to treat irritable bowel syndrome, epilepsy, insomnia, nausea, and vomiting from cancer treatment. It is also used to help treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Talk to your doctor about more usages and see what is right for you.
Ativan should be used exactly as directed. Your doctor or pharmacist will help you know how to take it. If you have any questions you can ask one of them for clarification so that you get the best dosage available for you. Ativan may be habit forming, therefore, do not take more than is prescribed to you. Do not take it more often than prescribe to you either. If you take excessive amounts of Ativan you may also build a tolerance to it and it will become less effective in treating your condition. Do not suddenly stop taking Ativan this could worsen your symptoms and cause withdrawal symptoms as well.
Do not take Ativan if you are allergic to Lorazepam or any other ingredient in Ativan. Tell your doctor about any other conditions you suffer from, any other medications that you are taking, and all supplements that you are taking as these may have adverse effects on you while taking Ativan. Tell your doctor if you plan to become pregnant, are pregnant, or are breast feeding.
Ativan may cause some side effects. Most side effects are not serious but if they are severe or do not go away contact your doctor for more guidance. Side effects include:
- drowsiness
- dizziness
- tiredness
- weakness
- dry mouth
- diarrhea
- nausea
- changes in appetite
- restlessness or excitement
- constipation
- difficulty urinating
- frequent urination
- blurred vision
- changes in sex drive or ability
Some side effects can be serious. IF you experience any of these side effects contact your doctor immediately:
- shuffling walk
- persistent, fine tremor or inability to sit still
- fever
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- severe skin rash
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- irregular heartbeat
Ativan may cause similar side effects to Lexapro. Lexapro side effects include:
- nausea
- diarrhea
- constipation
- changes in sex drive or ability
- drowsiness
- increased sweating
- dizziness
- heartburn
- stomach pain
- excessive tiredness
- dry mouth
- increased appetite
- flu-like symptoms
- runny nose
- sneezing
IF you experience any other side effects contact your doctor immediately so that you may get guidance on what to do. If someone who is taking either of these medications collapses or stops breathing call 911 immediately.