Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsPanic DisorderSide EffectsAddictionAdditional PrecautionsKeep in Mind
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Panic Disorder
Side Effects
Addiction
Additional Precautions
Keep in Mind
Close
Ativan is a type ofbenzodiazepine, a class of medications sometimes referred to as sedatives or tranquilizers due to their calming and relaxing effect on the body.Other common benzodiazepines includeXanax (alprazolam),Klonopin (clonazepam), andValium (diazepam).
At a Glance
How Ativan Works to Treat Panic Disorder
Neurotransmittersin the brain, known asgamma-aminobutyric acid receptors (GABA), are partly responsible for regulating sleep and feelings of relaxation and anxiety. Ativan acts on these receptors to slow down thecentral nervous system (CNS).This reduces excess agitation and excitement in the brain, inducing a calming and relaxing effect.
Because of Ativan’s calming effects on the central nervous system, it can provide relief for many of the symptoms of anxiety and panic disorder, including:
By depressing the CNS, Ativan is also able to lessen the intensity of anxiety andpanic attacks. Ativan works quickly, making it an effective solution to temporarily managingpanic symptoms. The drug enters your system relatively rapidly and lasts a few hours.
Side Effects of Ativan
Some of the most common side effects of Ativan include:
If these side effects persist or worsen, you should talk to your doctor. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose or change your medication. Never stop taking your medication or change your dose without talking to your doctor first.
Some serious side effects are also possible if you take Ativan. These include mental and mood changes, hallucinations, thoughts of suicide, difficulty walking, and breathing issues. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor right away.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Ativan and Addiction
Your doctor will likely discuss strategies to minimize the risk ofaddiction. Never attempt to stop your medication on your own. If you suddenly stop taking Ativan, you may experience symptoms of withdrawal. Typicalwithdrawal symptomsinclude sleep disturbances, irritability, increased nervousness, and muscle cramps.
Benzodiazepine withdrawal comes with potential risks of hallucinations and seizures. Other symptoms, such as nausea, headaches, and severe restlessness, can also occur.
Should you decide to discontinue your prescription, your prescribing doctor will assist you in gradually decreasing your dosage. Slowly tapering your dose over a period of time can minimize withdrawal symptoms.
Additional Precautions For Taking Ativan
Caution should be taken if you have a history of certain medical conditions.Before taking Ativan, consult your doctor if you’ve been diagnosed with these or any other medical condition:
Ativan Drug Interactions
Ativan depresses the central nervous system (CNS).Alcohol and certain medications that have a similar effect on the CNS should be avoided. Make certain that your doctor is up to date on all of your current prescription and over-the-counter medications.
Drowsiness and Dizziness
Feeling tired and lightheaded are common side effects of Ativan. Until you are used to how this medication affects you, caution should be taken while driving or performing other tasks that require your full attention and concentration.
Pregnancy and Nursing
It is possible for Ativan to be passed to a child during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.Talk to your doctor about the risk of using Ativan while pregnant or nursing.
Some research indicates that benzodiazepine use during pregnancy may increase the risk of certain birth defects. However, more research is needed to better understand these risks.
Older Adults Taking Ativan
The side effects of Ativan are often more noticeable in older adults. To limit these effects, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage. This information is intended to provide a general overview of the use of Ativan forpanic disorder. Any questions or concerns you may have about your prescription should be addressed with your doctor or pharmacist.
Ativan is one type ofmedicationthat may be useful in the treatment of anxiety and panic disorder. Because it is a benzodiazepine and comes with a risk of dependence and addiction, it is frequently used for short-term relief. Other medications that may be prescribed include antidepressants, buspirone, and beta-blockers.
Medications tend to be most effective when they are used alongside psychotherapy and self-help strategies.Cognitive-behavioral therapy(CBT) can be helpful, and strategies like exercise, meditation, and journaling can also help you cope with feelings of panic and anxiety.
Therapy for Anxiety Disorders
6 SourcesVerywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.National Alliance on Mental Illness.Lorazepam (Ativan).U.S. National Library of Medicine.Lorazepam.Mathew SJ, Jean-Lys S, Phull R, Yarasani R.Characterization of Extended-Release Lorazepam: Pharmacokinetic Results Across Phase 1 Clinical Studies.J Clin Psychopharmacol. 2023;43(4):350-360. doi:10.1097/JCP.0000000000001715U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Ativan.National Institute of Mental Health.Mental health medications.Tinker SC, Reefhuis J, Bitsko RH, et al.Use of benzodiazepine medications during pregnancy and potential risk for birth defects, National Birth Defects Prevention Study, 1997-2011.Birth Defects Res. 2019;111(10):613-620. doi:10.1002/bdr2.1497
6 Sources
Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.National Alliance on Mental Illness.Lorazepam (Ativan).U.S. National Library of Medicine.Lorazepam.Mathew SJ, Jean-Lys S, Phull R, Yarasani R.Characterization of Extended-Release Lorazepam: Pharmacokinetic Results Across Phase 1 Clinical Studies.J Clin Psychopharmacol. 2023;43(4):350-360. doi:10.1097/JCP.0000000000001715U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Ativan.National Institute of Mental Health.Mental health medications.Tinker SC, Reefhuis J, Bitsko RH, et al.Use of benzodiazepine medications during pregnancy and potential risk for birth defects, National Birth Defects Prevention Study, 1997-2011.Birth Defects Res. 2019;111(10):613-620. doi:10.1002/bdr2.1497
Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
National Alliance on Mental Illness.Lorazepam (Ativan).U.S. National Library of Medicine.Lorazepam.Mathew SJ, Jean-Lys S, Phull R, Yarasani R.Characterization of Extended-Release Lorazepam: Pharmacokinetic Results Across Phase 1 Clinical Studies.J Clin Psychopharmacol. 2023;43(4):350-360. doi:10.1097/JCP.0000000000001715U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Ativan.National Institute of Mental Health.Mental health medications.Tinker SC, Reefhuis J, Bitsko RH, et al.Use of benzodiazepine medications during pregnancy and potential risk for birth defects, National Birth Defects Prevention Study, 1997-2011.Birth Defects Res. 2019;111(10):613-620. doi:10.1002/bdr2.1497
National Alliance on Mental Illness.Lorazepam (Ativan).
U.S. National Library of Medicine.Lorazepam.
Mathew SJ, Jean-Lys S, Phull R, Yarasani R.Characterization of Extended-Release Lorazepam: Pharmacokinetic Results Across Phase 1 Clinical Studies.J Clin Psychopharmacol. 2023;43(4):350-360. doi:10.1097/JCP.0000000000001715
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Ativan.
National Institute of Mental Health.Mental health medications.
Tinker SC, Reefhuis J, Bitsko RH, et al.Use of benzodiazepine medications during pregnancy and potential risk for birth defects, National Birth Defects Prevention Study, 1997-2011.Birth Defects Res. 2019;111(10):613-620. doi:10.1002/bdr2.1497
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