Brand name: Ativan
Pronounced: AT-i-van
Generic name: Lorazepam
Why is Ativan prescribed?
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.
Most important fact about Ativan
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.
How should you take Ativan? -FDA approved drugs without
a prescriptions.
Take Ativan exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
--If you miss a dose...
If it is within an hour or so of the scheduled time, take the forgotten
dose as soon as you remember. Otherwise, skip the dose and go back
to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from
light.
Ativan side effects
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.
* Side effects may include:
Dizziness, memory problems, sedation, transient amnesia, unsteadiness, weakness
* Side effects due to a rapid decrease in dose or abrupt withdrawal
from Ativan:
Abdominal and muscle cramps, convulsions, depressed mood, inability to fall
or stay asleep, sweating, tremors, vomiting
Why should Ativan not be prescribed?
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Ativan
or similar drugs such as Valium, you should not take this medication.
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.
Special warnings about Ativan - Free rx meds online.
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.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Ativan
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
(phenobarbital, Seconal, Amytal) or sedative-type medications such
as Valium and Halcion.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
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.
Recommended dosage for Ativan
ADULTS
Overdosage
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.
* The symptoms of Ativan overdose may include:
Coma, confusion, drowsiness, hypnotic state, lack of coordination, low blood
pressure, sluggishness
