Lorazepam
Brand names :: Ativan, Apo-Lorazepam, Novo-Lorazepam
Lorazepam is used for short term relief of excessive anxiety. It is less likely to accumulate in the body. Lorazepam can become habit forming if taken regularly over a long period of time. It's effects may diminish over time. Treatment should be reviewed regularly.
Benzodiazepines like Lorazepam act by enhancing the actions of a natural brain chemical, GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). GABA is a neurotransmitter, a chemical that carries messages between brain nerve cells. GABA inhibits the transmission of nerve signals, thereby reducing nervous excitation.
DO NOT USE: If you had negative reactions to other benzodiazepine. If you have a history of drug dependence. If you have had a stroke. If you have multiple sclerosis. If you have Alzheimer's disease. If you are seriously depressed. If you have other brain disorders.
Directions Ativan: Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. AVOID DRINKING GRAPEFRUIT JUICE while taking this medicine. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature, away from heat and light. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE and you are using it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If you do not remember until later, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
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Information for users:
Frequency and timing of doses
- 1 - 4 x's a day.
Adult dosage range - 1 - 6 mg daily. Occasionally, larger doses maybe prescribed.
Onset of effect - 30 - 60 minutes.
Duration of action - up to 8 hours.
Diet advice - None
Drug Group - Benzodiazepines
Overdose danger - Medium. If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe dizziness, fainting, or prolonged erection.
Dependence rating - High
Prescription needed - Yes
Storage: - keep in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Protect from light.
Missed dose: - No cause for concern but take when you remember. If your next dose is in two hours, take a single dose now and forget the next.
Stopping the drug: - If only taken for a short period you can stop immediately, but if you have been taking this drug for an extended period of time then you need to taper off according to doctor's instructions.
Adverse Effects:
- Drowsiness - common
- Dizziness-unsteadiness - common
- Blurred vision - Rare
- Forgetfulness-confusion - Rare
- Headache - Rare
- Rash - Rare
Call your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe.
Interactions
Sedatives - increase the sedative properties of lorazepam. Such drugs are alcohol, sleeping drugs, antihistamines, antidepressants, narcotic analgesics and antipsychotics.
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