What is the Ativan (injection)?
Lorazepam (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen) is a benzodiazepine medication prescribed to treat status epilepticus seizures, an emergency state that often leads to seizures.Lorazepam injections can also be used to ease anxiety prior to going through surgical procedures.Lorazepam injections may be used for other purposes not covered in this medication guide.
Side effects of Ativan (injection)?
Seek medical attention immediately in the event that you exhibit symptoms or warning signs of an allergic reaction, such as asthma, hives, and swelling of your lips, face, and tongue.Lorazepam can reduce or stop your breathing, particularly if you've recently taken an opioid or alcohol, as well as other drugs that could cause breathing problems. Your medical carers will be watching for any signs, like a breath that is weak or shallow.
Inform your medical professional immediately if you've:
- Breath that is weak or shallow;
- Extreme tiredness;
- Arousal, restlessness, or annoyedness
- Strange thoughts, hallucinations,
- Feeling dizzy as though about to collapse.
Dizziness or drowsiness can persist for longer for older people. Take care to avoid injuries from falling. You might need assistance to get up from bed for at most the first 8 hours.
Common adverse effects of ativan could include:
- Feeling lightheaded; drowsiness;
- Breathing issues
- Burning or redness after the drug lorazepam is injected into the muscle.
This list may not include every possible adverse reaction of this medication. Others could happen. Consult your physician to seek medical advice on the effects. You can report symptoms to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Similar/related drugs
Sertraline, Trazodone, Escitalopram, Duloxetine, Fluoxemic, Hydroxyzine, and Alprazolam
Warnings
Lorazepam can reduce or stop breathing, especially if you've recently taken an opioid, alcohol, an opioid medication, or any other substances that may cause breathing problems.The continued use of this medication could create a habit.
Prior to using this drug
If it is possible prior to receiving lorazepam injections, inform your physician if you are sensitive to any medication or:
- Narrow-angle glaucoma;
- Sleep apnea or a severe breathing issue;
- There is a documented allergic reaction to polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, or benzyl alcohol;
- An allergy history with any of the benzodiazepines (lorazepam alprazolam, diazepam ativan, klonopin, restoril, tranxene valium, versed, xanax, and more).
Ask your doctor about any of the following: ever suffered from:
- Asthma or any other breathing disorders;
- The liver condition
- Kidney disease.
Lorazepam can harm a baby who is not yet born and therefore should not be used during pregnancy. But status epilepticus is an extremely life-threatening disorder, and the advantages of using the drug lorazepam for treatment may outweigh any risks for the baby who is not yet born.Sedatives that are used during surgery can alter the development of the brain in a young child or an unborn baby (when applied to the mother) and could result in learning or behavioural issues later on in the course f the procedure. The long duration of surgery or repeated procedures is the most risky.There may be a need to take a sedative in the event of an emergency in medicine or to fix the birth defect. Your doctor will advise you of any medications that are prescribed during the course of a procedure or surgery.If you are able to do so during an emergency, inform your medical professional that you are breastfeeding or pregnant.
How do I take Ativan (injection)?
Lorazepam is administered into a muscle or vein by a doctor.You might need just one dose of the drug if your condition improves following the injection.After the injection, you will be monitored to make sure that the medication works and is not causing adverse side effects.Lorazepam injections are intended for one-time or intermittent usage. Continuous use can become habit-forming or cause withdrawal symptoms once you stop taking the medication.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Lorazepam is an individual dose. It doesn't have a day-to-day dosing schedule.
What happens if I overdose?
In a medical environment, an overdose could be immediately treated.
Aviod this
Do not drink alcohol for the first one or two days following an injection of lorazepam. Dangerous side effects or death can occur.Lorazepam can trigger extreme drowsiness, which may last from 24 to 48 days following the injection. Adults who are older may experience drowsiness for longer.Avoid driving or engaging in hazardous activities until the traces of Lorazepam are gone completely. Drowsiness or dizziness can lead to accidents, falls or even serious injuries.
Interaction with other drug
The moment you're given this medication and other medications that cause rest or reduce your breathing, it could result in serious negative side effects or even the death of a patient. Ask your doctor before taking opioids, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, or medicine to treat anxiety or seizures.
Discuss all other medications taken, specifically:
- Other of the benzodiazepines (such as alprazolam, diazepam, Valium, Xanax, and others);
- Probenecid;
- Valproate or any other seizure medication;
- Birth control pills;
- Treatment for mental illness
- Medication to prevent or treat vomiting as well as nausea and vomiting.
This list isn't complete. Other medications can affect the effects of lorazepam. These may include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. There are many possible interactions with drugs listed here.
