Ativan is a prescription medication available by oral tablet, oral solution and injection. It is a controlled substance that must be taken only as prescribed. The drug is available by brand name or as the generic drug lorazepam. Ativan is indicated for short-term anxiety, long-term anxiety disorders, acute seizure and is frequently given prior to surgery for relaxation and to reduce recall. A physician may order the medication for other purposes. According to 2005 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide, common oral dosages range from 2mg to 6mg per day 1.

Is This an Emergency? If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.

Neurological Side Effects

Common neurological side effects of Ativan include:

sedation



loss of reality



light-headedness



tiredness



a lack of concern



depression



anger



hostility



headache



confusion



restlessness

Excitement and drowsiness are common side effects during the initial phase of treatment. Less common side effects include

crying



excitability



seizures



weakness



unsteadiness



lack of emotion



slurred speech



hallucination



reduced consciousness



rigid muscles



loss of coordination



difficulty concentrating



vivid dreams



slowed response



difficulty speaking



tremor



memory loss



euphoria



involuntary muscle contractions



numb or tingling skin



a sensation that one is about to fall



mania



difficulty controlling eye movements



double vision



other visual disturbances



difficulty hearing



other hearing disturbances



extrapyramidal system symptoms



which are manifested by difficulties with muscular movement or involuntary muscular movement

Cardiovascular Side Effects

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Blood-related side effects are uncommon and include low white blood cell level, low granulocyte (a type of white blood cell) level and elevations of various blood enzymes.

Gastrointestinal Side Effects

Common gastrointestinal side effects of lorazepam include dry mouth and nausea. Less common side effects include:

increased salivation



difficulty swallowing



loss of appetite



heartburn



stomach disorder



vomiting



constipation



diarrhea



liver problems

Urinary and Reproductive Side Effects

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Urinary and reproductive side effects are uncommon and include dark urine, retaining urine, incontinence, changes in sexual interest and changes in the menstrual period.

Skin-related Side Effects

Skin-related side effects are uncommon and include:

increased sweating



rash



yellowed skin



hair loss



skin inflammation



itching



hives

According to Drugs.com, when the drug is injected into the body, pain and burning at the site are common side effects, while redness occurs less frequently 2.

Other Side Effects

Drug dependence is a frequent side effect, and withdrawal syndrome can occur if the drug is abruptly stopped.