Ativan - Wipe Out Anxiety

Ativan (lorazepam) is a medication used to treat anxiety, but it has other benefits as well. It can also treat insomnia, seizures in children, and alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Some doctors prescribe it off-label to treat muscle spasms, and it is also occasionally used in chemotherapy patients.

Ativan belongs to the benzodiazepine group of drugs, which are used to treat sleep problems, panic attacks, depression and muscle issues. When a patient takes it as directed, Ativan targets the GABA receptors in the brain, increasing the amount of free GABA in the body and inhibiting certain central nervous system reactions.

Despite the benefits of Ativan, some doctors are reluctant to prescribe it long-term because of its potential for addiction and withdrawal symptoms. For this very reason, many people are treated with it for fewer than four months, but in rare cases, withdrawals are seen following as little as a month of Ativan use.

Potential drawbacks of use include insomnia, nausea, vomiting and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Patients can also experience sweating and tremors. To avoid withdrawal symptoms, doctors usually wean the patient off of Ativan gradually. Where withdrawal symptoms are present, their severity is almost always related to the duration of use.

Ativan is safe in most situations, and most people benefit without unpleasant side effects. These range from drowsiness, dizziness and weakness, to appetite loss and impaired speech, to more serious effects such as breathing troubles and low blood pressure. In some cases, seizures can result, as can abnormal levels of excitement or anger. If an allergic reaction occurs, consult a doctor immediately.