Ativan for Anxiety: Benefits, Side Effects, and What You Should Know

Ativan, or lorazepam in generic form, is a drug that belongs to the benzodiazepine class of medicines. It’s a very familiar drug to anxious individuals, prescribed for short-term treatment of anxiety disorders. Potential risks and side effects related to Ativan use also should be kept in mind, while the effectiveness of the drug is unquestionable.

What is Ativan?

Ativan is a type of benzodiazepine that acts on the brain and central nervous system, exerting a sedative effect. This drug enhances the activity of GABA, which is usually an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain that reduces neuronal transmission. As a result, Ativan decreases anxiety by facilitating the activity of GABA.

Approved Indications of Ativan

Ativan is indicated mainly for the following purposes:

1. Anxiety Disorders: Ativan is useful in treating anxiety disorders, such as a feeling of tension and apprehension.
2. Insomnia: It is utilized for short-run insomnia because it has sedation properties.
3. Preoperative Sedation: It can be used preoperatively to calm patients before undergoing surgery.
4. Seizure Disorders: It is also used, at times, to treat some seizure disorders.

How Does Ativan Work?

Ativan works by increasing the effects of GABA within the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter, naturally occurring in the body, which has an inhibiting action on brain activity and therefore causes a sedative effect. When Ativan acts upon the GABA receptors, it enhances the flow of chloride ions into the neurons, making them less excitable and thus decreasing anxiety levels. This mechanism helps in alleviating symptoms associated with anxiety disorders and other conditions.

Dosage Information

Dosage of Ativan is dependent upon the nature of the disorder, the age, and the response of the patient. Key points of its administration are as follows:

1 . Dosages Recommended

• Anxiety Disorders: Adults – The usual dosage for adults will start at around 1 mg to 3 mg, taken two to three times daily according to the requirement.
• Insomnia: In the treatment of insomnia, this medication can start at a dose of 1 mg to 2 mg, administered at bedtime.
• Seizures: Dosage for seizures is going to vary widely depending on individual considerations.

2. Directions for Administration

• Use Ativan only as directed by your doctor.
• Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water; do not crush or chew.
• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next dose.

Common Side Effects

• Somnolence
• Vertigo
• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• Coordination problems
• Confusion

Serious Side Effects

In some cases, Ativan can lead to more serious

• Respiratory Depression: Shallow or complete cessation of breathing may occur. This is more likely if it is taken together with other depressants, like opioids or alcohol.
• Suicidal Thoughts: Some may have a change in mood or behavior and even have thoughts of suicide. Sudden changes need to be observed and communicated to a doctor immediately.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Abrupt discontinuation of Ativan following long-term therapy may result in withdrawal symptoms that include seizures, increased anxiety, and agitation.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Ativan may be hazardous to an unborn baby if taken during pregnancy. Similarly, it can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. It is critical for pregnant or breastfeeding women to consider the risk factors with a healthcare professional before taking this drug.

Pre-existing Conditions

A patient is expected to inform the doctor about the pre-existing history of the following conditions:

• Liver disease
• Kidney disease
• Breathing problems, including sleep apnea
• Depression or mood disorders

Considerations for Long-Term Use

The healthcare provider should monitor long-term use of Ativan:

Follow up: Follow up regularly with one’s doctor to make sure Ativan works well and if any changes must be made in one’s dosage regimen

Medical taper: To avoid the chances of developing withdrawal symptoms, withdrawal should be medically made by gradual tapering.

Drug Interactions

Ativan is known to interact with several medicines that might lead to the emergence of serious adverse side effects like the following;

1. Opioids: Ativan can cause respiratory depression when administered simultaneously with certain opioid drugs.
2. Other Benzodiazepines: Combining Ativan with other benzodiazepines, such as Valium, increases the risk of sedation and overdose.
3. Antidepressants: Concomitant antidepressants may enhance the sedative activity of Ativan.

The patient must be asked for a list of all the medicines he is currently on to avoid this type of interaction.

Buying Ativan Online Safely

With today’s digital lifestyle, many opt to buy prescription medications online for easy access. There are significant risks when buying prescription medications like Ativan uses online:

Buying Medications Online Risks

1. Counterfeit Drugs: Most of the online pharmacies sell counterfeit medicines that can include harmful ingredients or nothing at all.
2. No Prescription Needed: Real pharmacies always need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
3. Lack of Regulation: Those operating outside of the regulatory frameworks may not follow standards to ensure safety.

How to Discover a Safe Online Pharmacy 

If you intend to buy Ativan online, you need to follow these steps for buying from a safe and genuine source: 

1. Require Prescription: Safe online pharmacies always feel the need to require a doctor’s prescription. 
2. Verify Licensing: Check if it is licensed in your state or country.
3. Contact Information: Make sure there is an accessible contact number and address.
4. Pharmacist Availability: A licensed pharmacist should be available to answer your questions.

Warning Signs of Unsafe Online Pharmacies

Watch out for online pharmacies that:

• Do not require a doctor’s prescription.
• Offer deep discounts that seem too good to be true.
• Do not provide clear written protections for your personal information.

If you find any of these warning signs, stay away from that pharmacy.

What to Do in Case of Overdose

An overdose of Ativan can be fatal, especially with the addition of other central nervous system depressants. Symptoms of an overdose may include:

• Extreme drowsiness
• Loss of balance or coordination
• Slow breathing
• Coma

If an overdose is suspected, immediate medical attention should be sought.

Conclusion:

Ativan or lorazepam is a very effective medication for anxiety disorders if treated correctly under a doctor’s supervision. To have safe usage of the drug, it is important to understand its uses, correct dosage, possible side effects, and the precautions that need to be taken.

In case you are experiencing unchanging symptoms from your use of Ativan, or uncomfortable side effects, you should consult with your doctor to discuss further treatment options or adjustment of your regimen.

Knowing how this medication works and what one should expect during treatment may make it easier to go through all the difficulties one goes through in their journey of recovering better mental health. The post summarizes detailed information concerning Ativan, also known as Lorazepam.