What is Ativan?
Ativan is a benzodiazepine drug that is most frequently prescribed to treat anxiety. It is also sometimes prescribed to help relieve the symptoms of severe alcohol withdrawal, to reduce serial seizures in children, and to reduce nausea in chemotherapy patients.

Important information about Ativan
Ativan is very helpful for most anxiety patients, but it must be taken properly. Ativan should not be mixed with other medications unless specifically instructed. Ativan is typically not prescribed for the long term because it can lead to drug dependence.

Before taking Ativan
Before you begin taking Ativan, your doctor needs to be informed of any major health issues you have experienced, especially if you have suffered narrow angle glaucoma, breathing or lung related issues, kidney or liver disease, drug or alcohol dependence, or depression. If you are, or might become, pregnant while taking this drug tell your physician before you begin. This drug may harm an unborn child, so it is rarely taken during pregnancy.

How should I take Ativan?
Ativan should be taken just as prescribed. In tablet form, it should be swallowed whole and never crushed, chewed up, or snorted. In liquid form, a measuring device with precise levels marked on it should be used to insure you get the proper amount of medicine. In the case of Ativan injections, your doctor or nurse will administer the medicine into the muscle for you.

What happens if I miss a dose?
If you forget a dose but quickly remember it, you can take it then. However, if your next dosage time is approaching soon, you may skip the forgotten dose and take the next dose as scheduled.

What happens if I overdose?
If you believe you may have taken an overdose of Ativan, get medical help right away. Symptoms of overdose can include slurred speech, extreme drowsiness, loss of coordination, muscle weakness, loss of consciousness, or coma.

What should I avoid while taking Ativan?
Until you know how the drug affects you, avoid driving or any activities that require extreme alertness. Alcohol should not be used concurrently with Ativan since it increases the effect of somnolence. Cold or flu medicines, narcotics, barbituates, other benzodiazepines, sleeping pills, muscle relaxants, and seizure medications can all increase the effects of Ativan, so inform your physician if you plan to take any of these.

What are the possible side effects of Ativan?
The most common minor side effects include sleepiness, dizzy spells, blurry vision, decreased muscle control, forgetfulness, nausea, changes in appetite, and a rash on the skin. Major side effects can include suicidal thoughts, hallucinations or delusions, extreme changes in behavior, and fainting.

What other drugs will affect Ativan?
Ativan can be affected by many drugs, so your doctor must be provided with a complete list of your medications. This drug will often react with other benzodiazepines, narcotics, barbiturates, antipsychotics, MAO inhibitors, and antidepressants.