Lorazepam (By mouth)

Introduction:

Lorazepam (lor-AZ-e-pam)

Treats anxiety, anxiety with depression, and insomnia (trouble sleeping). This medicine is a benzodiazepine.

Brand Name(s):

Ativan, Lorazepam Intensol

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to lorazepam or to other medicines that are like lorazepam (such as Valium®, Xanax®, or Dalmane®).

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Liquid

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • You may take this medicine with or without food.
  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If you are more than 1 hour late, skip the missed dose and wait until it is time for your next dose.
  • Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are using any medicines that make you sleepy (such as sleeping pills, cold and allergy medicine, narcotic pain killers, or sedatives).
  • Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine. Avoid drinking coffee, tea, or soft drinks that contain caffeine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have glaucoma, liver disease, or lung problems.
  • This medicine may be habit-forming. If you feel that the medicine is not working as well, do not take more than your prescribed dose. Call your doctor for instructions.
  • Do not stop using this medicine suddenly without asking your doctor. You may need to slowly decrease your dose before stopping it completely.
  • This medicine may make you drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Depression or severe confusion
  • Severe drowsiness and weakness
  • Slow heartbeat
  • Trouble breathing
  • Unsteadiness (having a hard time standing up)

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Blurred vision or headache
  • Dizziness, clumsiness, or trouble concentrating
  • Dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
  • Feeling "hungover" in the morning after taking this medicine at bedtime
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