Ativan is a benzodiazepine class drug. It affects the chemicals in the human brain and is used to relieve many ailments like anxiety, tension, nervousness, etc. It has also been found to help with certain types of seizures and assist with insomnia.

What you should know about this medication.

*Taking Ativan can result in drowsiness or dizziness. Like all such drugs, avoid driving, operating machinery, and performing hazardous tasks if you experience any symptoms.

*Do not mix alcohol with it because alcohol aggravates the symptoms. If you are taking this drug to help with seizures, alcohol increases risks of seizures.

*Ativan is addictive. It is easy to form dependency upon it and experience withdrawal symptoms if it is stopped suddenly. Pay close attention to the prescription and do not exceed dosage beyond that suggested by the doctor. If you take this drug for more than a week, then consult your doctor before stopping.

Your doctor may not prescribe Ativan if you suffer from kidney disease, liver disease, asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, any respiratory disorder or narrow-angle glaucoma.

You should tell your doctor about any feelings of depression or suicide as these symptoms may effect your ability to take this drug as well.

Ativan comes under FDA pregnancy category D and can be harmful to unborn children. Do not take Ativan if you are breasfeeding as Ativan passes through the breast milk. People over 65 years age should also avoid Ativan.

Ativan can be a dangerous drug if abused so it is very important that you take it precisely as directed by your doctor. Should there be the slightest doubt in your mind, then please seek clarification from your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. Improper usage of this drug can be risky.

Ativan is also available in the form of injections. If you are injecting yourself at home, then have detailed instructions about how to do it and the correct way to prepare, administer, and store it.

Do not use regular spoons to measure dosage. There are many gadgets available to measure oral concentrate dosages, use a dose-measuring spoon, dropper, or cup. Inquire at your pharmacist as to where you can best procure a dose-measuring device.

Drink at least one full glass of water with every oral dose.

Ativan is habit forming. Exceeding prescribed dosage is not recommended as, as with other addictions, physical and psychological dependency can develop very fast. If Ativan is taken for more than a week and suddenly stopped, then withdrawal symptoms could be experienced. Should your own course be of seven days or more, then please consult your doctor before stopping Ativan consumption. The doctor can help you gradually reduce the dosage.

Ativan tablets should be stored in cold and dry place. Ativan oral concentrate must be stored in a refrigerator with a temperature of 36-46 Fahrenheit (2-8 Celsius) and away from direct sunlight.

Disclaimer - The information presented here should not be interpreted as or substituted for medical advice. Please talk to your doctor for more information about Ativan.