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|Lorazepam Lorazepam

Lorazepam

Generic name: Lorazepam
Brand names: Ativan

Why is Lorazepam prescribed?

Lorazepam 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 Lorazepam

Tolerance and dependence can develop with the use of Lorazepam. 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 Lorazepam?

Take Lorazepam 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.

What side effects may occur?

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 Lorazepam.

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.

• More common 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 Lorazepam:
  Abdominal and muscle cramps, convulsions, depressed mood, inability to fall or stay asleep, sweating, tremors, vomiting

Why should Lorazepam not be prescribed?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Lorazepam or similar drugs such as Valium, you should not take Lorazepam.

Also avoid Lorazepam if you have the eye disease, acute narrow-angle glaucoma.

Anxiety or tension related to everyday stress usually does not require treatment with Lorazepam. Discuss your symptoms thoroughly with your doctor.

Special warnings about Lorazepam

Lorazepam 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 Lorazepam.

If you have decreased kidney or liver function, use of Lorazepam should be discussed with your doctor.

If you are an older person or if you have been using Lorazepam 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 Lorazepam

Lorazepam may intensify the effects of alcohol. Avoid alcohol while taking Lorazepam.

If Lorazepam 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 Lorazepam 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 Lorazepam if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. There is an increased risk of birth defects. It is not known whether Lorazepam appears in breast milk. If Lorazepam is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.

Recommended dosage

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 Lorazepam 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.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. An overdose of Lorazepam can be fatal, though this is rare. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• The symptoms of Lorazepam overdose may include:
  Coma, confusion, drowsiness, hypnotic state, lack of coordination, low blood pressure, sluggishness