LORAZEPAM - ORAL (lor-AYE-zeh-pam) COMMON BRAND NAME(S)

Ativan

USES

Lorazepam is used to treat anxiety.

OTHER USES

This drug may also be used for seizures, alcohol withdrawal, prevention of nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy, tension headache, and for sleeping trouble (insomnia).

HOW TO USE

Take as directed. The dose and frequency of use will depend on your condition and response. Long-term or excessive use of this medication can cause dependency.

SIDE EFFECTS

This drug can cause drowsiness, dizziness, lack of coordination, grogginess, headache, nausea, dry mouth, blurred vision. If these effects continue or become severe, contact your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience any of these effects while using this drug: confusion, hallucinations, depression, yellowing of the eyes or skin, slow pulse, trouble breathing, fever/chills, prolonged sore throat, unusual tiredness, unusual bleeding or bruising. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: of: heart disease, kidney or liver disease, lung disease or trouble breathing, muscle disorders, glaucoma, depression or psychiatric conditions, drug dependency, any allergies. Use caution driving or performing tasks requiring alertness. This drug is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this medication. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Caution is advised. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medication. Use with caution.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription drugs you take especially: narcotic pain relievers, sedatives, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, antidepressants, probenecid, seizure medication, barbiturates, theophylline. It is recommended to limit the use of alcohol while using this medication as excessive drowsiness can occur. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include confusion, slow reflexes, clumsiness, deep sleep, and loss of consciousness.

NOTES

Long-term or excessive use of this medication may lead to tolerance. Use this only as directed. This is a potent medication. Do not share this with others.

MISSED DOSE

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double-up the dose to catch up.

STORAGE

Store at controlled room temperature away from sun and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom.