Ativan (lorazepam) is a benzodiazepine used for the treatment of anxiety disorders and other conditions as prescribed by your health care provider. Being allergic to Lorazepam or other benzodiazepines is a direct contraindication for using this medicine. If you are not sure whether the drugs you are taking belong to the group of benzodiazepines or not consult your health care provider or your pharmacist. No matter which drugs you are taking they are supposed to be reported to your doctor before you start the treatment. If you ever had an addiction to drugs or alcohol, glaucoma, kidney or liver disease, breathing or lung problems or depression make sure your doctor knows about any of these conditions before prescribing a certain dosage. You dosage of Ativan may be adjusted taking into consideration the information mentioned above.
If you have been prescribed the liquid form of this medicine make sure you measure it with the help of a special spoon to make sure you take the exact dosage prescribed. If you think you do not benefit from the treatment, tell your doctor, as your dose may be readjusted. Unless your doctor thinks it’s absolutely necessary do not give this medicine to anyone younger than 12. In that case discuss all the risks and benefits with your health care provider. This medicine is FDA pregnancy category D. This category is used for drugs that can cause birth defects in unborn babies and pass into breast milk. Make sure you use a reliable method of birth control while on this medicine. Ativan can cause sleepiness. If you are using other drugs that make you sleepy this symptom can be intensified because of their combination. Make sure you purchase this drug from a reliable drug vendor to avoid taking medicine that is not authentic.
