Key Takeaways:
- Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine prescribed to treat anxiety, sleep disorders, and alcohol withdrawal.
- The usual dose ranges from 1 to 2 mg, but strictly following your doctor’s prescription is essential.
- Common side effects of lorazepam include drowsiness, dizziness, and memory problems, particularly in older adults.
- Misuse of lorazepam can lead to addiction, and withdrawal symptoms may occur if the medication is stopped suddenly.
- If you’re concerned about lorazepam addiction or its side effects, professional addiction treatment can help.
Introduction
Lorazepam, commonly known by the brand name Ativan, is a powerful benzodiazepine often prescribed to treat anxiety, help with sleep disorders, or manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms. By affecting the central nervous system, lorazepam works to calm feelings of anxiety and stress. It’s essential to know the correct dose and be aware of the potential side effects and risks, such as addiction and withdrawal symptoms. Whether you’ve just started taking lorazepam or are considering it for treatment, this guide covers everything you need to know about using it safely.
What is Lorazepam and What is it Used For?
Lorazepam belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines, which work by calming the nervous system and reducing anxiety. It’s typically used to treat:
- Anxiety disorders: It can help people manage intense feelings of anxiety.
- Sleep issues: Lorazepam is sometimes used to treat short-term insomnia.
- Alcohol withdrawal: In medical settings, lorazepam can be given to help with symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, such as agitation or tremors.
It’s essential to take lorazepam precisely as your doctor prescribes. Misusing this medication can lead to addiction or dangerous side effects. You can take lorazepam orally, with or without food, but always at the prescribed dosage.
Common Lorazepam Dosage
The standard dose of lorazepam typically ranges from 1 to 2 mg, though the amount prescribed depends on the treated condition. Your doctor may adjust your dosage based on your body’s response to the medication. For anxiety, lorazepam may be taken one or more times per day, while for sleep, it’s usually taken at bedtime.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but if it’s close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one. Never double up doses, as doing so increases the risk of side effects and overdose.
Lorazepam Side Effects
Like most medications, lorazepam may cause side effects, which can range from mild to more serious. The most common side effects include:
- Drowsiness: Many people feel tired or sleepy after taking lorazepam, especially in higher doses.
- Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy is another frequent side effect.
- Memory problems: Some people report having trouble remembering things while on lorazepam.
For most, these side effects are mild and go away independently. However, older adults are at greater risk of experiencing drowsiness and dizziness, which could lead to falls. Tell your doctor if any side effects feel overwhelming or don’t go away.
Serious Side Effects of Lorazepam
Although uncommon, some people may experience serious side effects from lorazepam. You should contact a healthcare professional right away if you notice:
- Hallucinations: Seeing or hearing things that aren’t real.
- Difficulty breathing: Feeling short of breath or having trouble breathing.
- Severe drowsiness: An overwhelming sense of sleepiness that won’t go away.
These severe side effects may be signs of an allergic reaction or an overdose. Taking too much lorazepam can be life-threatening, leading to slow or shallow breathing and unconsciousness. If you suspect an overdose, call emergency services immediately.
Lorazepam Addiction and Withdrawal Risks
One of the biggest concerns with lorazepam is the risk of addiction. Since it is a benzodiazepine, long-term use can lead to physical dependence, meaning your body becomes used to the drug. If you stop taking lorazepam suddenly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms, including:
- Increased anxiety
- Trouble sleeping
- Irritability
- Sweating
- Tremors
These symptoms can be uncomfortable, so it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions when reducing your dosage. Lorazepam should never be stopped abruptly, especially after long-term use. Instead, your doctor may suggest gradually lowering your dose to help prevent withdrawal symptoms.
For individuals struggling with lorazepam addiction, professional addiction treatment is key. It’s essential to work with medical professionals who can guide you through a safe recovery process and help you manage any withdrawal symptoms.
How to Take Lorazepam Safely & Not Overdose
To reduce the risk of side effects and misuse, here are some safety tips for taking lorazepam:
- Always take lorazepam as prescribed by your doctor. Do not adjust your dose without consulting them first.
- Avoid drinking alcohol while taking lorazepam, as this can increase the risk of serious side effects.
- If you’re taking other medications, let your doctor know, as there may be potential drug interactions that could affect how lorazepam works in your body.
- Keep lorazepam stored at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
Conclusion
Lorazepam is an effective medication for managing anxiety, sleep disorders, and alcohol withdrawal symptoms, but it comes with risks. Always use lorazepam as directed by your doctor, and be aware of potential side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and memory issues. For those taking lorazepam long-term, the risk of addiction and withdrawal symptoms can increase, making it vital to follow a doctor’s advice when stopping the medication.
If you or a loved one is concerned about lorazepam addiction or struggling with its side effects, seeking professional help is the best next step. At Virtue Recovery Center, we specialize in helping individuals with benzodiazepine addiction and provide the support needed for addiction recovery. Contact us today at 866-457-4811 to learn how we can help you or your loved one overcome addiction.
FAQs About Lorazepam Doses & Side Effects
What is lorazepam used for?
Lorazepam is used to treat anxiety, sleep disorders, and alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
What are the common side effects of lorazepam?
Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and memory problems, which may be more pronounced in older adults.
Can lorazepam cause addiction?
Yes, lorazepam can lead to addiction, especially with long-term use. If you suspect addiction, it’s important to seek professional addiction treatment.
What should I do if I miss a dose of lorazepam?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as scheduled.
How do I safely stop taking lorazepam?
Never stop taking lorazepam suddenly, as it can cause severe withdrawal symptoms. Always work with your doctor to gradually reduce your dosage.
Does lorazepam have adverse effects like memory loss?
Yes, lorazepam can cause memory problems, including loss of consciousness or difficulty forming new memories. These side effects may occur as the medication affects the brain’s memory functions, especially with higher doses or prolonged use. Talk to your doctor if you experience memory issues while taking lorazepam.
Does the medicine lorazepam cause memory problems?
Lorazepam can cause memory problems, particularly short-term memory loss. It’s one of the possible side effects of medications called benzodiazepines, which includes lorazepam. If memory loss becomes severe, you should get medical help right away.
Does lorazepam cause drowsiness and dizziness?
Yes, lorazepam can cause drowsiness and dizziness, which are common side effects of the medication. These effects may be more pronounced if you drink alcohol or use opioid pain or cough medications, as they may increase the risk of severe drowsiness.
How does Ativan make you feel the next day?
The next day, lorazepam tablets (Ativan) may leave you feeling groggy or fatigued, as side effects may occur due to its sedative properties. These lingering effects can impair your ability to perform tasks, so talk to your doctor if this impacts your daily routine.
Can lorazepam mess with your heart?
Severe lorazepam side effects can include effects on the heart, such as changes in blood pressure or heart rate. If you have existing heart issues, lorazepam may increase the risk of complications, so it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting this medication.
Is lorazepam safe to take every day?
Taking lorazepam every day can lead to tolerance, dependence, or a substance use disorder. Stopping lorazepam suddenly after prolonged use may cause withdrawal symptoms. Always talk to your doctor to weigh the risks and benefits of daily use.
What type of drug is lorazepam classified as?
Lorazepam comes from a class of medications called benzodiazepines, which are used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions. These drugs work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter in the brain to produce calming effects, but they also come with a risk of dependency.
Resources
https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-8892-5244/lorazepam-oral/lorazepam-oral/details
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682053.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532890/
https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/lorazepam/about-lorazepam/
- About the Author
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Gigi Price holds licenses as a Master Social Worker and Clinical Drug Counselor. She completed her master’s degree in Social Work at Texas State University. Over the last decade, Gigi has been dedicated to utilizing evidence-based practices to enhance patient care and treatment planning, resulting in positive, long-term outcomes for patients and their families. Her passion lies in creating a treatment environment where professionals collaborate to bring about positive change and provide a safe, trustworthy therapeutic experience. Patients can be confident in receiving top-quality care under her leadership.
In her role as the Clinical Director of Virtue Recovery Houston, Gigi conducted research to identify the most effective approaches for treating patients with acute mental health diagnoses, PTSD, and Substance Use Disorder. She then assembled a team of skilled clinicians who could offer various therapeutic modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
(DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Somatic Exposure, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). Gigi takes pride in overseeing the development and implementation of Virtue Houston’s Treatment Program, which includes two specialized therapeutic curricula tailored to the unique needs of individuals struggling with mental health issues, addiction, and PTSD.
