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Lorazepam (Ativan) Info
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Classification:
Sedative (Benzodiazepine) .
Brandr Names: Almazine, Anxiedin, Anxira, Anzepam,
Aplacasse, Aplacassee, Apo-Lorazepam, Aripax, Ativan,
Azurogen, Bonatranquan, Bonton, Calmese, Control, Duralozam,
Efasedan, Emotion, Emotival, Kalmalin, Larpose, Laubeel,
Lopam, Lorabenz, Loram, Lorans, Lorapam, Lorat, Lorax,
Lorazene, Lorazep, Lorazepam, Lorazin, Lorazon, Lorenin,
Loridem, Lorivan, Lorsedal, Lorzem, Lozepam, Merlit,
Nervistop L, Nervistopl, NIC, Novhepar, Novolorazem,
Orfidal, Punktyl, Renaquil, Rocosgen, Sedatival, Sedizepan,
Sidenar, Silence, Sinestron, Somnium, Stapam, Tavor,
Temesta, Titus, Tranqipam, Trapax, Trapex, Upan, Wintin,
Wypax, Zepnap
Lorazepam is used to treat anxiety disorders and short-term
anxiety related to stress and tension of every day life. |
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General Directions for Taking Medication:
Take only as directed. DO NOT skip or take more medicine
than prescribed. If you miss a dose, take missed dose
as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next
dose, take only 1 dose. DO NOT double up the doses.
Take with food to prevent stomach upset.
You may mix medicated solutions with drinks (water or
juices) or soft food like pudding and applesauce. Use
hard candy or saliva substitutes to limit mouth dryness.
Continue with counseling, psychotherapy and behavior
modification therapy as prescribed by your doctor. See
your doctor regularly to monitor the effectiveness of
this medication with lab tests, anxiety screenings,
and a physical exam.
Contraindications:
Allergies - Hypersensitivity to this medication or its
components Patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, history
of drug or alcohol abuse, severe psychiatric conditions,
or a coma
Children less than 12 years of age
Use with caution in:
Pregnancy and Breast Feeding - May not be safe for your
baby. Talk to your doctor about risks and benefits.
Patients with liver, kidney or lung disorders; depression;
debilitating illnesses; or history of suicidal thoughts
Elderly patients - May require lowest dose necessary
to control anxiety or panic disorder.
Common Side Effects:
May occur during the first few days after beginning
therapy, but usually resolve:
Dizziness, drowsiness, lethargy, loss of balance, headaches,
changes in libido (sexual drive and desire), changes
in appetite and weight, dry mouth, problems with urination
or upset stomach
Serious Side Effects:
Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any
of the following:
Pounding or irregular heartbeat; skin rash; blurred
vision; slurred speech, confusion, mental depression
or behavior changes; nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
or constipation. Allergic reaction symptoms such as
a red skin rash; itching; swelling of the face, lips,
tongue, and throat; wheezing; chest pain; and difficulty
breathing
Interactions:
Drug - There are many medications, both over-the-counter
and prescription, which will alter the action of this
medication. Some include antidepressants; antihistamines;
antacids; other benzodiazepines; birth control pills,
antibiotics, anti-fungals (azole class), sleeping pills,
barbiturates, narcotics, tranquilizers, anticonvulsants,
anti-asthma medicines like Theophylline; anti-gout medicine,
and anti-Parkinsonian medication.
It is extremely important that you consult with your
doctor about dosing schedules if you take a variety
of medications along with this medication. DO NOT take
any new medication without talking with your doctor
first.
Warnings:
Overdose - Can lead to unconsciousness and even death
due to respiratory arrest. Especially if taken with
alcoholic beverages.
Avoid alcoholic beverages. Increases drowsiness and
dizziness.
DO NOT drive or operate heavy machinery. May cause drowsiness
and lightheadedness.
DO NOT stop taking this medication abruptly. This may
cause severe withdrawal symptoms including seizures,
sweating, cramps, and muscle tremors.
Notify your doctor if your anxiety worsens despite taking
the medication as directed. Chronic use of this medication
has been known to lead to physical and psychological
dependence. Keep this medication and all others out
of reach of children and pets.
General Dosage Information:
Dosing is individually based. Talk to your doctor about
your specific dosing schedule:
Storage:
Keep at room temperature.
Protect from moisture and sunlight. |
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