Ativan (lorazepam) is intended for anxiety relief, but your health care provider may recommend it for some other conditions. Other conditions it can be used for include epilepsy, insomnia, vomiting from cancer treatment and irritable bowel syndrome. This drug has been reported to form a habit and make you dependent. This means you will not be able to stop the treatment whenever you want, especially if you have been taking Ativan for a long time. Gradual withdrawal will be recommended by your doctor and you will need to follow these recommendations. The following withdrawal symptoms are possible if you decide to stop the treatment suddenly: anxiousness, irritability, and sleeplessness. This drug is supposed to be taken 2-3 times a day although your doctor may recommend a different routine. Report any medications you are using or intend to use to your doctor. It’s a good idea to make a list of drugs you are taking. The following drugs must be mentioned as they have been reported to cause dangerous interactions with Ativan: valproic acid, muscle relaxants, Parkinson's disease drugs, sleeping pills, antihistamines, rifampin, digoxin, theophylline, asthma and cold medications, vitamins, levodopa, drugs for seizures or pain, medicines for allergies, medications for depression, sedatives, oral contraceptives, and tranquilizers. Also tell your doctor if you have been diagnosed with seizures, glaucoma, heart disease, liver disease, or lung disease, as these factors can affect the dose you are prescribed. Such mild side effects as drowsiness, weakness, diarrhea, dizziness, tiredness, dry mouth, nausea, and changes in appetite are common and you do not need to get worried if you experience them while taking Ativan. You will need to report them to your doctor only if the side effects mentioned become severe and do not go away for several days. More serious side effects may include the following: restlessness, irregular heartbeat, yellowing of the skin or eyes, blurred vision, changes in sex drive, difficulty breathing, difficulty urinating, fever, shuffling walk, severe skin rash, and constipation. Your doctor must know if you develop any of these serious side effects to be able to adjust your dose or make some other changes required for successful and safe treatment.
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