| Drug Name: | Ativan (Lorazepam) |
| Tablet Strength: | 2.5 mg |
| Ativan Best Price: | from $2.80 per pill |
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Everything You Need to Know about Ativan (Lorazepam)
Ativan represents a brand-name of a drug that treats anxiety, called Lorazepam. Ativan was initially developed back in 1963 and became available to public of the United States by 1977. Afterwards, Ativan was applied to treat anxiety among millions of people around the globe. Ativan has also been listed at the WHO’s List of Essential medications. The main objective of this overview is to provide a detailed description of Ativan and its ingredients as well as means of functioning, and list down possible side effects and precautions related to this medicine.
Main Ways of Ativan Functioning and Vital Precautions
Ativan influences the nervous system and calms it down in order to provide the relief from arising anxiety symptoms. Ativan is generally administered over a short period of time, since it can develop dependence.
If a patient suffers from anxiety, which results from depression and no relief is found among alternative approaches, Ativan can be a suitable solution.
Ativan includes a warning that aims to highpointdiversified risks associated with this medication. It’s crucial that every patient studies and properly understands the following data prior to initiating the treatment with this drug:
- Ativan is reportedly able to develop drug dependence, hence no drug abuse, be it unintentionally or intentionally, is permitted, as it can cause adverse withdrawal symptoms to take place.
- Ativan does not mix well with other medications. Hereby, Ativan administration together with other opioids and/or benzodiazepines can result in adverse side effects to occur. The most hazardous side effects include sedation as well as troubles with breathing, which can lead to fainting/loss of consciousness. In certain situations, issues with breathing can cause coma or even death. Hence, it is vital to address this precaution with maximum responsibility and act according to doctor’s prescription.
- Ativan is meant for short-term application. An extended application of Ativan increases the likelihoodof developing a dependence to the medication. Take Ativan strictly within the duration specified in prescription and maintain the prescribed dosage.
- Abstain from ceasing Ativan treatment abruptly, because it can result in serious withdrawal symptoms, and the worst among them is seizures. Consult with your healthcare specialist in order to define the most appropriate dosage that will deliver anticipated effects without causing any harm to your wellbeing.
- Ativan can be taken by breastfeeding patients. Number of studies gave been carried out to prove that there is minimal risk to a child, if Ativan is taken while breastfeeding.
- Ativan is not safe to be taken by pregnant patients because of high chances of harm to the fetus. To remain safe, it is suggested to take a reliable type of birth control drugs throughout Ativan treatment. Do not hesitate to consult with your healthcare practitioner if you suspect that you are pregnant while taking this medication.
Suggested Ativan Dosage and Administration Details
Abstain from determining Ativan dosage on your own, because only a qualified healthcare provider is able to take such vital decisions, only after a thorough and careful study of patient’s medical history and checking the severity of symptoms associated with anxiety.
Your physician may prescribe this medication in liquid or tablet form. The liquid form of Ativan can be diluted with pudding, applesauce, or water in order to easethe consumption. Tablet form of Ativan is required to be swallowed as whole and should not be crushed or chewed.
Standard dosage suggested for anxiety treatment generally depends on the health condition and includes the following:
Tablet form:
- Teenagers and adult patients (12 – 55 years old) —2 – 3 mg per day;
- Elderly patients (55 years old and above) —1 – 2 mg per day.
Liquid form:
- Teenagers and adult patients (12 – 55 years old) — 2 – 6 mg per day;
- Elderly patients (55 years old and above) — 2 mg per day.
If Ativan gets prescribed to patients below 12 years old, the appropriate dosage can only be concluded by a specialized and qualified healthcare practitioner after carrying out a detailed study of child’s health conditions, medical history and accompanying allergies.
Abstain from altering or increasing the dosage of Ativan throughout the entire treatment cycle. In case of a missed dose, take it immediately, but if it is about to for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and proceed with a predefined schedule as per the agreed prescription and doctor’s instruction.
Ativan is suggested to be stored at room temperature, away from reach of kids, as well as direct sunlight and source of humidity. Keep Ativan in its original package in order to protect it from harmful influence.
List of Possible Side Effects Associated with Ativan
Throughout the entire treatment cycle with Ativan, patient may develop some of side effects, even if this medication is taken in accordance with prescription from your doctor. The side effects may vary from adverse to mild and should be addressed with maximum responsibility in order to avoid any possible harm to wellbeing.
The following adverse side effects should be reported without any delay to your healthcare practitioner once they are observed:
- Black/tarry stools;
- Sudden anger and/or agitation;
- Chills;
- Blood in urine;
- Problems with breathing;
- Overall confusion;
- Reoccurring seizures;
- Drowsiness;
- Drooling;
- Appetite loss;
- Muscle ache;
- Acute headache;
- Excessive sweating.
Although this list is not complete, but the abovementioned side effects are most commonly observed and reported based on various reviews and researches. Have a thorough overview of information provided in the prescription leaflet to understand better all associated side effects.
Other side effects that can occur, are less adverse and generally do not needany medical assistance. Nevertheless, you are still required to remain vigilant and observant throughout the entire treatment cycle, just to be ready in case if symptoms get worse:
- Continuous dizziness;
- Constipation;
- Reduction in sexual drive;
- Hair loss;
- Increase in body weight;
- Trembling.
Any overdose cases are required to be reported right away in order to receive a timely medical assistance. Overdose symptoms may include the following:
- Reduction in energy levels;
- Alterations in speech;
- Overall weakness in muscles;
- Repeated nightmares;
- Paleness;
- Restlessness.