Overview
Chemically, Lorazepam (Ativan) is a short-acting anxiolytic belonging to a group of drugs known as benzodiazepines. It is usually prescribed to treat anxiety associated with mental health conditions such as depression and insomnia, panic, muscle spasm pain, and seizures. In some cases, it has also been used to manage symptoms associated with the acute phase of schizophrenia.

How does this medication work?
Lorazepam (Ativan) works by slowing down your brain activity, thereby producing a calming effect.

How it should be taken?
It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with or without food.

Side Effects
Side effects to Lorazepam (Ativan) tablets, if they occur, are generally observed at the beginning of therapy and usually disappear upon continued medication as your body adjusts. The most frequent adverse reaction to Lorazepam is sedation (sleepiness), followed by dizziness, weakness and unsteadiness. Less frequent adverse reactions are disorientation, depression, nausea, change in appetite, headache, sleep disturbance, agitation, dermatological symptoms (rash or itching), eye-function disturbance, together with various gastrointestinal (stomach and intestine) symptoms. The incidence of sedation and unsteadiness increases with age.

Precautions
Lorazepam (Ativan) should not be taken with any other anti anxiety, anti depressives, anti convulsive meds, antihistamines, alcohol or any substance that depresses the central nervous system.
Lorazepam (Ativan) should not be used if you have any liver, kidney or breathing problems. Any liver or kidney impairment prevents the drug from being properly excreted from the body. Medication used in breathing treatments interacts with Lorazepam and has caused death in some cases. In patients with depression accompanying anxiety, there is a possibility of suicide.
When stopping Lorazepam (Ativan) treatment, the dosage should be terminated gradually, since abrupt withdrawal of any anti anxiety agent may result in symptoms similar to those for which patients are being treated: anxiety, agitation, irritability, tension, insomnia, and occasional convulsions. Lorazepam abuse treatment should be done by medical professionals.

Recommended Dosage
The usual range is 2 to 6 mg/day given in divided doses, the largest dose being taken before bedtime, but the daily dosage may vary from 1 to 10 mg per day.
For anxiety, most patients require an initial dose of 2 to 3 mg/day given two or three times per day.
For insomnia due to anxiety or situational stress, a single daily dose of 2 to 4 mg may be given, usually at bedtime.
For elderly or debilitated patients, an initial dosage of 1 to 2 mg per day in divided doses is recommended, to be adjusted as needed and tolerated.

Storage Conditions
Store it at room temperature and in an airtight container. Keep away from children.