Active ingredient | Lorazepam |
---|---|
Drug Class | Benzodiazepine |
Working | Works by affecting a particular natural chemical |
Type | Affects brain and CNS |
Recommendation | Recommended for regular use |
Ativan 2 mg
Ativan is a prescription medication, which is used to treat short-term anxiety. Available in tablet form, it is generally taken orally, with or without food. Care should be taken to strictly follow the prescribed dosage and avoid forming a dependency on the drug.
How Ativan Works
Intake of Ativan helps increase the natural chemical in the body (GABA). This helps control the excessive activity of the nerve cells and helps calm the brain.
Usage
Since the dosage is based on the patient’s medical condition, age, and response to treatment, the medication should be taken as it is prescribed to you by your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication is taken orally, with or without food. Consistent use of this medicine would help in achieving the best results. Ativan might not work the same if it is used for long periods of time.
What Happens When I Stop Using Ativan?
Discontinuing Ativan will result in certain withdrawal symptoms. Following symptoms can be noticed:
- seizures
- trouble sleeping
- Mood changes
- Puking
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach ache
- Hallucinations
- Numbness/tingling of arms and legs
- Pain in muscles
- Faster heartbeat
- Short-term memory loss
- Very high fever
- Increased reactions to noise/touch/light
These symptoms are more likely if the patient has been using the medication for a prolonged period of time, that is, for more than one to four weeks. These symptoms are also common if you have a history of drug abuse, alcoholism or if Ativan was taken in high doses. In order to avoid these withdrawal symptoms, it is suggested to lower your dose slowly. Talk to your doctor about the same.
Before Using Ativan
Since Ativan can be addictive, it is best to use it as it is prescribed to you by your doctor or pharmacist. Do not abruptly cease the intake of the medication. Abrupt intake can cause more problems.
You should also inform your doctor if you have allergic to lorazepam, or to other benzodiazepines like alprazolam, clonazepam, diazepam. The drug may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other issues. Inform your doctor of any allergies to avoid an allergic reaction.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist of your medical history before taking this medication. Especially if you have a history of kidney disease, liver disease, glaucoma, lung/breathing problems, mental disorders. Let your doctor know if you have a personal or family history of a substance use disorder.
It is possible that older adults be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially loss of coordination and drowsiness. In fact, the drug may have the opposite effect on them, causing symptoms including mental/mood changes, sleeping problems, increase in sexual interest, or hallucinations.
Like the elderly, children suffering from anxiety may also not find relief from the usage of the drug. It may have the opposite effect on them.
Care should be taken to avoid taking Ativan while pregnant or breastfeeding, since the drug may cause harm to the unborn baby. In case, you notice symptoms such as shallow breathing, constant crying, inform your doctor right away.
Use of alcohol or marijuana should be avoided while under medication. Since the side effects of Ativan include drowsiness and dizziness, driving and operation of heavy machinery should be avoided.
What if I Miss a Dose?
In case that you miss a dose and are taking more than 1 dose daily, then do not consume it if it is almost time for the next dose. It is recommended that you skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
In case you take Ativan once daily at bedtime and miss a dose, do not take it the next morning. Contact your doctor to find out what to do.
What if I Overdose?
In case of an overdose, immediate medical attention should be sought. Symptoms of overdose include confusion, slow reflexes, clumsiness, deep sleep, and loss of consciousness.
Side Effects
Some common side effects of Ativan include-
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Loss of Balance
- Headache
- Nausea
- Blurred vision
- Change in sexual interest/ability
- Constipation
- Heartburn
- Weakness
- Change in appetite
In case that these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately.
Some serious side effects of Ativan include-
- Depression
- Slurred speech
- Vision changes
- Unusual weakness
- Yellowing of eyes or skin
- Seizures
- Slow/shallow breathing
In case of any of these side effects, get medical help immediately.
Storage
Ativan is a prescription-only controlled substance. It should be stored in a safe, airtight container, away from the reach of children.
It should also be kept away from people struggling with drug abuse problems.
As with all other drugs, it should be stored in a cool environment, avoiding direct exposure to sunlight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ativan prescribed for?
Ativan is a drug prescribed to treat short-term anxiety.
Can Ativan tablet be used as a sleeping pill?
One of the common side effects of Ativan is drowsiness. It has a calming effect, and can subsequently help a person sleep.
Is Ativan safe for pregnant/lactating women?
Ativan is not recommended for pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding. It is better to avoid using it unless a licensed medical practitioner directs otherwise.
What happens if you take more than the recommended dose?
Ativan should be taken exactly as it is prescribed. Taking more than the recommended dose of the drug can cause loss of muscle control, low blood pressure, mental confusion, slow breathing, and even unconsciousness. In case of any serious symptoms, seek immediate medical help.
Does Ativan 2 mg cause depression?
Ans. It is possible that the intake of this drug increase suicidal tendencies, especially if the patient has a history of mental disorders. Discuss your medical history with your doctor in detail before taking this medication.
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