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Generic Name: Lorazepam
Brand Name(s):
Information updated: April 1, 2000
Overview
Ativan is an anti-anxiety agent, similar in many respects to Valium.
Once called minor tranquilizers or sedatives, such drugs are prescribed
to calm jittery nerves and relieve excessive tension. They belong to a class of
medications called benzodiazepines.
Ativan is a little more rapid in
action than many other such drugs and its calming effect lasts for a relatively
short period of time.
Side Effects and Interactions
Side effects associated with Ativan include
sedation, dizziness, unsteadiness, and confusion. These may fade after a few
days or weeks.
Do not drive, operate machinery or undertake any activity
that requires close attention.
Ativan may make narrow angle glaucoma
worse and should not be taken by people diagnosed with this
condition.
Other possible reactions include nausea, dry mouth, visual
problems, depression, rash, itching, change in appetite, constipation, altered
sex drive, urinary difficulties and reduced blood pressure. Report any such
symptoms to your physician promptly.
Many drugs, including barbiturates,
alcohol, antidepressants, digitalis-type heart drugs, scopolamine, and the
schizophrenia drug Loxitane, can interact with Ativan.
People also
should not combine the herb kava-kava with drugs such as Ativan. One man who did
so actually went into a comalike state.
Oregon grape, which has sedative
and anticonvulsant properties, probably should not be combined with antianxiety
drugs such as Ativan.
Prudence suggests that the herb passionflower
should not be mixed with Ativan.
Also, because of the possibility that
valerian affects GABA receptors in much the same way benzodiazepines do,
patients should be cautioned not to combine it with drugs such as
Ativan.
It is not yet known if the sedative effects of the herb gotu kola
are synergistic with those of other agents that promote sleep or reduce anxiety.
Nontheless, it would be best not to mix gotu kola with Ativan until this is
determined.
Check with your pharmacist and physician to make sure Ativan
is safe in combination with any other medicines or herbs you take.
Special Precautions
Regular reliance on Ativan for many months may lead to dependence.
Sudden discontinuation of the drug could trigger withdrawal symptoms including nervousness, agitation, difficulty concentrating, insomnia, fatigue, headache and nerve twitching.
Never stop taking Ativan without medical supervision. This medication may have to be phased out gradually over a period of weeks or months.
Ativan, like several other short-acting benzodiazepines, may cause problems with memory for events that happen the day after the medicine is taken. People may appear normal to friends and family, but later be unable to recall some of the things they did or observed during that time.
Taking the Medicine
Ativan can be taken with food, especially if it upsets your stomach.
Do not drink alcohol or use any other sedative while on this drug, as the combination may lead to dizziness, drowsiness, lack of coordination or confusion.
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Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist. Teresa Graedon holds a doctorate in medical anthropology and is a nutrition expert. Their syndicated radio show can be heard on public radio.
© 2000