Ativan

Fear and anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent mental diseases which touch many individuals all around the globe. One of the few medications that can be used as treatment for anxiety problems, panic problems, and even depression is Ativan or Lorazepam. Throughout this lengthy article, you will learn all about Ativan, how it works, the varieties that exist, the probable adverse effects, dangers, measures of caution, other options, compatibility, and disposal. Keep reading and get all the details that will help you make the right choices about your mental health.

What is Ativan?

Ativan like any other drug goes by the generic name Lorazepam and it comes under the category of drugs known as benzodiazepines. It is a typical short-acting anxiolytic, that means it reduces an anxiety level and it works with the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. With the increased GABA activity, you are able to decrease brain activity and thus remove features such as anxiety, muscle tension and any rest of the characteristics of anxiety disorders.

What is Ativan used for?

Ativan is largely prescribed to manage anxiety disorders and panic disorders. These include, Hyperkinesia, dental abscess, Parkinsonism, epilepsy, manic-depressive psychosis, short-term treatment of insomnia and agitation. Sometimes, doctors may use Ativan to manage seizures, alcohol withdrawal and muscle stiffness among other conditions. It is also used sometimes in conjunction with other drugs for the treatment of depression.

How does Ativan work?

The main inhibitory brain neurotransmitter is GABA, and Ativan is known to be an agent that acts on receptors for these inhibitory brain neurotransmitters and increases their effectiveness. GABA means that it decreases the general activity of the nervous system hence acting as a calming agent. In other words, Ativan raises GABA activity which contributes to diminishing the signs of anxiety, stress, and irritation.

Types/Forms of Ativan

Ativan is available in various forms, including:

1. Oral solution: Ativan Oral Solution is supplied in 1 mg/mL strength of Lorazepam in one millilitre of solution.
2. Tablets: Ativan Tablet can be administered in different concentrations including 0.5 mg, 1 mg and 2 mg concentrations.
3. Injection: Ativan Injection is a concentrated solution prescribed in hospitals for intramuscular administration with concentration of 4mg/ml of Lorazepam.

Ativan (Lorazepam) is an antianxiety agent, a tranquilizer that works by slowing down the central nervous system Ativan (Lorazepam) uses and side effects Ativan –in some cases- Side Effects of Ativan (Lorazepam).

Ativan Side Effects

Like other drugs, Ativan has side effects. Some of the most common side effects include: Drowsiness, Dizziness, Weakness, Impaired coordination, Confusion, Fatigue, Headache, Blurred vision, Nausea, etc. Some less common side effects may include Depression, Irritability, Memory problems, Slurred speech, and Difficulty swallowing.

Ativan Risks and Precautions

Ativan can be used for anxiety when combined with other health issues, but it has some of the risks and precautions that go with it. It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and be aware of the following risks:

1. Tolerance and dependence: In the long run, the body becomes tolerant of Ativan, therefore, you need to use more of it in order to experience the same effects. It also places the patient at risk for physical dependence to the drug.
2. Withdrawal: This is because when the use of Ativan is stopped suddenly, the person will likely have withdrawal reactions and they include seizures, tremors and increased levels of anxiety.
3. Allergic reactions: Ativan may be administered as a liquid or tablet An allergic reaction to Ativan may cause rash, hives, and difficulty in breathing.
4. Concomitant use with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants: It has been proved that this combination gives very high risk especially in cases of overdose , like convulsion, respiratory depression and even coma.

Ativan Alternatives

Occasionally, your doctor may advise you to use other drugs for your anxiety or other complaints. Some alternatives to Ativan include:

1. Buspirone: A type of drug used to treat anxiety disorders and which doesn’t belong to the benzodiazepine group of drugs.
2. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): First line therapies for anxiety disorders are the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors like fluoxetine and sertraline.
3. Prazosin: An alpha-blocker with exposure treatment possibly relieving nightmares and flashbacks in PTSD patients.
4. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): A method of psychotherapy which has been described to be particularly useful in the treatment and control of anxiety disorders.

Ativan Interactions

Ativan may interact with other drugs, vitamins or other products, including nutritional supplements and herbs. Any other medication or substance should be reported to your doctor to rule out compatibility issues or any other complications. Some common drug interactions with Ativan include:

1. Antidepressants: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors.
2. Anti-anxiety medications: Other benzodiazepines, barbiturates and buspirone.
3. Narcotics: Opiates including morphine, codeine, and hydrocodone, oxycodone etc.
4. Antipsychotics: Chlorpromazine, thioridazine, and other.
5. Muscle relaxants: Carisoprodol and cyclobenzaprine and others.
6. Alcohol: Intoxications with Ativan and alcohol are accompanied by severe drowsiness, dangerous coma and respiratory arrest.

How Do I Dispose of Ativan After Use?

It is important to dispose out of reach of children or possibly addictive individuals any Ativan which has been left over or has expired. Follow these steps to dispose of Ativan safely:

1. You should call your local pharmacy or the doctor’s office to find out about such a program. There are quite easily accessible programs in most of the pharmacies where you can take the unused drugs for destruction.
2. If no take-back program is available, combine the Ativan with an undesirable substance, preferably coffee grounds or kitty litter. This will make it less attractive to children or pets who might chew or take with their hands the medication.
3. Pour this mixture into a suitable disposal receptacle and put the container in the trash. It is also important to empty personal details before disposing of the container used in carrying these items.

Conclusion

Ativan is a good drug for treating anxiety, panic disorder and other disorders. However, other precautions and possible side effects, dangers, and precautions which may need to be followed are important, but the doctor’s suggestions must be adhered to. If you, or someone else you know is suffering because of a mental disorder like anxiety, don’t be afraid to get some professional medical advice regarding what will prove to be the most effective treatment for you. Don’t forget, unused medicines must be disposed of to avoid human and animal consumption by chance or by purpose.