Ativan
Generic Name:
Lorazepam
Brand Names:
Ativan, Lorazepam Intensol, Temesta
Ativan Description:
Ativan belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs that act on the brain and central nervous system (CNS) to provide relief from symptoms of anxiety. Ativan also has sedative and hypnotic properties, as well as anti-seizure and muscle-relaxant actions. The medication works by boosting the effects of gamma-Aminobutyric acid, or GABA, in the brain, which has a calming effect.
Ativan is a Schedule IV controlled substance under the U.S. Controlled Substances Act and has the potential for abuse, physical dependence, and psychological dependence.
Ativan Side Effects:
The occurrence of side effects with Ativan has been shown to generally increase with age.
Possible side effects experienced by patients taking Ativan include:
- Aggression
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Excitation
- Hallucinations
- Hostility
- Insomnia
- Sexual arousal
- Sleep disturbances
For more information, see our Ativan side effects page.
Ativan Uses:
Ativan is used for the short-term treatment of anxiety disorders and the anxiety symptoms that may be associated with depression. Ativan is not indicated for use longer than four months, as it is a fast-acting medication and the development of tolerance to the drug is possible.
In some cases, Ativan can be used for cases of insomnia that are a result of anxiety episodes.
Ativan Interactions:
Ativan will interact with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, including:
- Alcohol
- Barbiturates
- Antipsychotics
- Sedative/hypnotics
- Antianxiety medications
- Antidepressants
- Narcotic analgesics
- Sedative antihistamines
- Anticonvulsants
- Anesthetics
Additional drugs that may interact with Ativan include:
- Clozapine
- Valproate
- Probenecid
- Theophylline
- Aminophylline
Ativan Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Ativan tablets are available in 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg strengths. Dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the condition being treated and the patient’s response to treatment, as well as other factors.
Ativan is typically prescribed as 2 to 6 mg per day given in divided doses. The largest dose should be taken before bedtime to avoid unwanted daytime drowsiness.
For treatment of anxiety, usually 2 to 3 mg per day is taken initially, with the daily dose given in two or three divided doses each day.
For treatment of insomnia due to anxiety or stress, usually 2 to 4 mg per day is taken at bedtime.
For elderly or debilitated patients, lower doses of 1 to 2 mg per day (in divided doses) are recommended.
Missing a Dose of Ativan
If a dose of Ativan is missed, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and wait to return to your regular dosing schedule.
Ativan Overdose
Overdose can easily occur if Ativan is combined with alcohol or other CNS depressant medications. Symptoms of overdose include:
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Coma
Ativan FDA Approval:
September 30, 1977
Ativan Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
There is currently no Black Box warning on Ativan.
Other Warnings
Patients with pre-existing depression may experience a worsening of symptoms or an emergence of depression while taking Ativan or other benzodiazepines. Those with a primary depressive disorder or psychosis should not take Ativan.
Ativan and other benzodiazepines should never be used in combination with other CNS depressants, including alcohol, as potentially fatal respiratory depression may occur. In rare cases, severe respiratory depression can occur when the drug is used alone.
Physical and Psychological Dependence
Use of benzodiazepines, including Ativan, may cause physical and psychological dependence. Higher doses and extended use of the medication increases the risk of dependence. Patients with a history of alcohol or drug abuse, and patients with significant personality disorders, have an even greater risk for dependence.
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