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Ativan
What Conditions does Ativan Treat?
Ativan (Lorazepam) is most commonly used to treat anxiety and anxiety disorders. Other medical conditions Ativan is used for include: depression, irritable bowel syndrome, insomnia, and agitation that sometimes accompanies alcohol withdrawal. Ativan is also sometimes used as a fast acting sedation method for violent or agitated patients.
How Does Ativan Work?
Ativan, a benzodiazepine, works by slowing the activity in the region in the brain that controls relaxation.
Ativan is known to be a short acting but high potency drug that contains all five of the benzodiazepine effects:
- Anxiolytic-Reduces anxiety
- Amnesic-Reduces or erases memory
- Sedative/Hypnotic-Used for treating insomnia
- Anticonvulsant-Helps treat seizure disorders.
- Muscle Relaxant-Used for rapid sedation and treatment of alcohol withdrawal.
Possible Side Effects
Some people taking Ativan experience side effects. Anyone taking Ativan who experiences any of the following side effects should call their health care provider:
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Dry Mouth
- Drowsiness
- Problems with Urination
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Changes in Appetite
- Blurry Vision
- Changes in Libido
- Problems with Sexual Function
- Restless Mood or Over Excited Mood
An immediate call to your health care provider is in order if any of the following serious side effects are experienced:
- Fever
- Inability to sit still
- Irregular Heart Beat
- Persistent Tremor
- Skin Rash
- Jaundice-a Yellowing of the Eyes or Skin
- Difficulty Breathing
- Difficulty Swallowing
- Shuffling Walk or Gait
Because people react differently to medications anyone experiencing any side effects, or problems, even those not listed here should consult with their health care provider as soon as possible.
Ativan Precautions
To help get the best medication for your health concern and make sure Ativan is the most optimal choice, anyone considering taking Ativan should be aware of needed precautions and possible interaction with other medications.
This overview is not a complete description and is not intended as a guide for usage. For questions concerning use of Ativan or other medication consult your health care provider.
Related Pages
- How Ativan Works
- Ativan at Wikipedia
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