Ativan is
used in the treatment of anxiety disorders and for short-term
(up to 4 months) relief of the symptoms of anxiety. It belongs
to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines.
Most
important fact about this drug
Tolerance
and dependence can develop with the use of Ativan. You may experience
withdrawal symptoms if you stop using it abruptly. Only your doctor
should advise you to discontinue or change your dose.
How
should you take this drug?
Take this
medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
--If you miss
a dose...
If it is within
an hour or so of the scheduled time, take the forgotten dose as
soon as you remember. Otherwise, skip the dose and go back to
your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
--Storage
instructions...
Store at room
temperature in a tightly closed container, away from light.
What
side effects may occur?
Side effects
cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Ativan.
If you experience
any side effects, it will usually be at the beginning of your
treatment; they will probably disappear as you continue to take
the drug, or if your dosage is reduced.
More common side effects may include:
Dizziness, sedation (excessive calm), unsteadiness, weakness
Less common or rare side effects may include:
Agitation, change in appetite, depression, eye function disorders,
headache, memory impairment, mental disorientation, nausea, skin
problems, sleep disturbance, stomach and intestinal disorders
Side effects due to rapid decrease or abrupt withdrawal of Ativan:
Abdominal and muscle cramps, convulsions, depressed mood, inability
to fall or stay asleep, sweating, tremors, vomiting
Why should
this drug not be prescribed?
If you are
sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Ativan or
similar drugs such as Valium, you should not take this medication.
Also avoid
Ativan if you have the eye disease, acute narrow-angle glaucoma.
Anxiety or
tension related to everyday stress usually does not require treatment
with Ativan. Discuss your symptoms thoroughly with your doctor.
Special
warnings about this medication
Ativan may
cause you to become drowsy or less alert; therefore, driving or
operating dangerous machinery or participating in any hazardous
activity that requires full mental alertness is not recommended.
If you are
severely depressed or have suffered from severe depression, consult
with your doctor before taking this medication.
If you have
decreased kidney or liver function, use of this drug should be
discussed with your doctor.
If you are
an older person or if you have been using Ativan for a prolonged
period of time, your doctor will watch you closely for stomach
and upper intestinal problems.
Possible
food and drug interactions when taking this medication
Ativan may
intensify the effects of alcohol. Avoid alcohol while taking this
medication.
If Ativan
is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could
be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important
to check with your doctor before combining Ativan with barbiturates
(phenobarbital, Seconal, Amytal) or sedative-type medications
such as Valium and Halcion.
Special
information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Do not take
Ativan if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. There
is an increased risk of birth defects. It is not known whether
Ativan appears in breast milk. If this medication is essential
to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding
until your treatment is finished.
Recommended
dosage
ADULTS
The usual recommended dosage is a total of 2 to 6 milligrams per
day divided into smaller doses. The largest dose should be taken
at bedtime. The daily dose may vary from 1 to 10 milligrams.
Anxiety
The usual
starting dose is a total of 2 to 3 milligrams per day taken in
2 or 3 smaller doses.
Insomnia Due
to Anxiety
A single daily
dose of 2 to 4 milligrams may be taken, usually at bedtime.
CHILDREN
The safety and effectiveness of Ativan have not been established
in children under 12 years of age.
OLDER ADULTS
The usual starting dosage for older adults and those in a weakened
condition should not exceed a total of 1 to 2 milligrams per day,
divided into smaller doses, to avoid oversedation. This dose can
be adjusted by your doctor as needed.
Overdosage
Any medication
taken in excess can have serious consequences. An overdose of
Ativan can be fatal, though this is rare. If you suspect an overdose,
seek medical attention immediately.
The symptoms of Ativan overdose may include:
Coma, confusion, drowsiness, hypnotic state, lack of coordination,
low blood pressure, sluggishness
