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Ativan
Generic Name: Lorazepam Tablets (lor-AZ-e-pam)
Brand Name: Ativan Tablet
Treating anxiety or anxiety associated with symptoms of depression. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. Ativan is a benzodiazepine. It works by slowing down the movement of chemicals in the brain. This results in a reduction in nervous tension (anxiety) and causes little sedation
Ativan®
Before using Ativan :
Tell your health care provider if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:
- If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
- If you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
- If you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
- If you are taking any other medicine that causes drowsiness (eg, narcotics, some antidepressants)
- If you have impaired lung function, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), muscle weakness or fatigue, glaucoma, liver problems, blood disorders, depression, or suicidal thoughts
- If you have a history of drug abuse or dependence
How to use Ativan :
Use Ativan as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions. Take Ativan by mouth with or without food.
If you use Ativan regularly and you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised to by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Important safety information:
Do not drink alcohol or use medicines that may cause drowsiness (eg, sleep aids, muscle relaxers) while you are using Ativan without first checking with your doctor.
Ativan may be habit forming if you take Ativan in high doses or for a long time. Do NOT take more than the recommended dose or use for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor.
Use Ativan with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects.
Pregnancy and Breast-feeding:
Ativan has been shown to cause harm to the fetus. Do not become pregnant while you are using it. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Ativan while you are pregnant. Ativan is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Ativan .
Some people who use Ativan for a long time may develop a need to continue taking it. People who take high doses are also at risk. This is known as DEPENDENCE or addiction.
If you stop taking Ativan suddenly, you may have WITHDRAWAL symptoms. These may include agitation, anxiety, irritability, occasional seizures, or sleeplessness may occur if Ativan is suddenly stopped. If you need to stop Ativan , your doctor will lower your dose over time.
Possible side effects of Ativan :
Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:
Clumsiness; dizziness; drowsiness; headache; lightheadedness; unsteadiness; weakness.
Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:
Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); memory loss.
Proper storage of Ativan :
Store Ativan at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Ativan out of the reach of children and away from pets.
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