Ativan belongs to the group of drugs known as benzodiazepines. These medicines function by increasing the action of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the body.
GABA is a neurotransmitter that communicates between cells in many sections of the body. Increasing GABA levels in the body has a calming impact that decreases tension and anxiety.
Benzodiazepines such as Ativan are classified according to their onset of action. Ativan for anxiety is categorised as having a quick to the moderate onset of action. It begins working immediately after ingestion but reaches its full impact within two to three hours.
Types of Anxiety
A few types of anxiety common in people are:
- Generalised Anxiety Disorder
Excessive concern or panic about regular life occurrences with no clear cause is a hallmark of a generalised anxiety disorder (GAD). Individuals suffering from GAD will frequently fret over mundane matters. Concerns of this sort may appear unreasonable or unimportant to those who are not experiencing them firsthand.
- Social Anxiety
Anxiety condition characterised by excessive nervousness and avoidance while in social situations is called social anxiety or social phobia. People who suffer from social anxiety disorder find it challenging to interact with others in social situations. It’s common for people to feel this way because they worry about other people’s opinions.
- High Functioning Anxiety
Individuals with high-functioning anxiety may not appear to have difficulties in social situations, the workplace, or other areas of life, yet they nonetheless suffer from many of the normal anxiety symptoms. Those who suffer from high-functioning anxiety may not get help for their condition because of the stigma associated with mental health issues, even if they are suffering inside.
- Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
After being exposed to or witnessing a traumatic event, a person may acquire PTSD.
When confronted with a stressful event, most people need time to adjust and learn new coping mechanisms. But with time and self-care, they often improve. If the symptoms get much worse over time (months or years), that’s an indication of PTSD.
What is Ativan?
Lorazepam is the generic name for Ativan. It is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders. Anxiety disorders, insomnia, agitation, active seizures, alcohol withdrawal, and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting are among the conditions it can help with.
Is Ativan Good for You?
The psychological and physiological status of an individual can be affected by Ativan addiction. Those who are dependent on the medicine in question carry on with their daily lives normally. Addiction is characterised by continued drug use despite adverse effects.
How to Take Lorazepam?
Always check the Lorazepam Medication Guide issued by your pharmacist before beginning treatment and if a refill is required. Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any concerns or queries.
This medication can be used orally with or without meals. Your doctor will choose the best dose for you depending on your age, health, and how you respond to therapy.
Regular usage of this medicine as prescribed by your doctor is required for optimal effectiveness.
The medicine helps many people, but there is a risk of addiction. Those who get anxiety medication online without a prescription may be at a higher risk for this. Addiction can be avoided by taking this medicine precisely as recommended.
Over time, this drug may lose its effectiveness. If you notice a decline in the effectiveness of this treatment, see your doctor. Please let your doctor know if your condition worsens or does not improve.
Side Effects
Lorazepam may have mild to severe side effects. Following is a list of some of the most common Ativan side effects:
- Confusion
- Disorientation
- Depression
- Sedation
- Dizziness
- Unsteadiness
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Amnesia
- Suicidal ideation/attempt
- Spinning feeling (vertigo)
- Sleep apnea
- Loss of control over one’s body
- Respiratory depression
- Tremor
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Appetite changes
- Anxiety, agitation, wrath, violence, and rage
- Blood dyscrasias
- Elevated bilirubin
- Increased transaminases in the liver
- Elevation of ALP
- Convulsions/seizures
- Visual disturbances
- Difficulty with speech
- Reduced blood pressure
- Change in libido
- Impotence
- Discolouration of skin or eyes
- Hypersensitive responses
Is Lorazepam Safe During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding?
Unfortunately, we do not yet have enough data to determine whether or not lorazepam is safe for usage during pregnancy. It’s possible your newborn will experience withdrawal at birth.
Consult a medical professional if you become pregnant while taking lorazepam.
Your doctor will go over the potential side effects of lorazepam with you and help you decide if it is the right medication for you and your unborn child.
Is a Gradual Decrease in Ativan Dose Necessary While Ending Treatment?
Indeed, if you’ve been taking Ativan frequently, you’ll probably need to reduce your dosage gradually. Experiencing withdrawal symptoms is a risk you take if you don’t gradually reduce your dosage.
Precautions
Take precautions by consulting your doctor regarding your medical history before using Ativan. This medication may not be suitable for you if you have certain medical disorders or other health-related considerations. These consist of:
- Depression
Ativan and other benzodiazepine medicines can exacerbate depressive symptoms. People with depression who are not receiving proper therapy for this illness should not use Ativan.
- Respiratory Disorders
Ativan may impede respiration. Individuals with sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other respiratory issues should use Ativan with caution or avoid it altogether.
- Acute Narrow-angle Glaucoma
Ativan may raise eye pressure, aggravating glaucoma. Due to this danger, physicians seldom administer Ativan to patients with acute narrow-angle glaucoma.
- Kidney or Liver Issues
Having difficulties with your kidneys or liver might influence how your body breaks down Ativan after you’ve taken a dosage. If you have liver or renal issues, your doctor may prescribe a different dose of Ativan.
