What are Ativan Tablets?
Ativan is a brand name for the medication lorazepam, which belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. It is commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, insomnia, and seizure disorders. Ativan works by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps to calm the nervous system.
How does it work?
Ativan, or lorazepam, works by enhancing the activity of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is responsible for reducing the activity of certain nerve cells in the brain, which helps to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and induce sleep. Ativan binds to specific receptors on the surface of neurons in the brain that are involved in the regulation of GABA, which leads to an increase in the activity of GABA and a decrease in the activity of the nerve cells, resulting in the therapeutic effects of the medication.
How to take it?
Ativan should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional. It is usually taken orally, either with or without food, and the dosage and duration of treatment depend on the individual's medical condition, age, and other factors.
It is important to follow the instructions provided by the healthcare professional and not to exceed the recommended dosage or duration of treatment. Ativan should not be abruptly stopped without consulting a healthcare professional, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms.
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible, unless it is close to the time for the next scheduled dose. In this case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. It is important not to take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Dosages
The dosage of Ativan, or lorazepam, depends on several factors such as the medical condition being treated, the age and weight of the individual, and other factors such as other medications being taken.
For anxiety, the usual adult dose is 2-3 mg per day, taken in divided doses, while for insomnia, the usual dose is 2-4 mg taken at bedtime. The maximum recommended daily dose of Ativan is typically 10 mg per day, although some individuals may require higher doses under medical supervision.
It is important to note that elderly individuals or those with liver or kidney problems may require lower doses of Ativan due to slower clearance of the medication from the body.
Dosages should always be determined and adjusted by a healthcare professional based on the individual's medical condition and response to treatment. It is important not to exceed the recommended dosage or duration of treatment without medical supervision, as this can increase the risk of side effects and dependence.
Side Effects
Ativan, or lorazepam, may cause several side effects, including:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Confusion
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Changes in appetite
- Dry mouth
- Skin rash or itching
- Memory problems
- Slurred speech
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
More serious side effects may include:
- Worsening of anxiety or depression
- Suicidal thoughts or behavior
- Allergic reactions such as swelling of the face or throat
- Seizures
- Jaundice or liver problems
- Unusual changes in behavior or mood
It is important to contact a healthcare professional immediately if any serious side effects occur. In addition, abrupt discontinuation of Ativan may lead to withdrawal symptoms, including seizures, so it is important to gradually taper off the medication under medical supervision.
Precaution
Before taking Ativan, or lorazepam, individuals should inform their healthcare professional of any medical conditions they may have, including allergies, liver or kidney disease, glaucoma, respiratory problems, or a history of substance abuse.
Ativan may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or impair thinking and motor skills, so individuals should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
Ativan may also interact with other medications, including other benzodiazepines, sedatives, opioids, and alcohol, and should not be taken in combination with these substances without medical supervision.
Pregnant women and nursing mothers should also consult with their healthcare professional before taking Ativan, as the medication may pass into breast milk and cause harm to the infant.
In addition, Ativan has the potential for abuse and dependence, so it should only be taken as prescribed by a healthcare professional and not be shared with others.
