Ativan (lorazepam) is a common medication used for thetreatment of panic disorderand other anxiety conditions.
Ativan works quickly, making it an effective solution to temporarily managingpanic symptoms.
The drug enters your system relatively rapidly and lasts a few hours.
Illustration by JR Bee, Verywell
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.
Ativan has the potential to be misused, leading to physical or psychological dependence.
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.
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.
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.
Other medications that may be prescribed include antidepressants, buspirone, and beta-blockers.
National Alliance on Mental Illness.Lorazepam (Ativan).
U.S. National Library of Medicine.Lorazepam.
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.
2019;111(10):613-620. doi:10.1002/bdr2.1497
