What is Ativan?

Ativan, otherwise called lorazepam, is a doctor-prescribed prescription that is suggested for the treatment of a sleeping disorder, tension, and sleeping difficulty because of uneasiness or stress.  It is also used for controlling status epilepticus and is also used as a medication that is given before administering anesthesia. Ativan is also used for treating alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Due to its widespread usage, it has become a drug for the treatment of the aforementioned conditions.  Ativan is available as tablets and as an intramuscular injection. The medication should be taken singularly without combining it with any other medication as it can interact with other drugs and have harmful effects on the body.  Do not combine the medication, especially with alcohol. It is a controlled substance that should be taken only under the guidance and supervision of a physician. Controlled substances can only be bought by providing a prescription from a licensed physician. The Drug Enforcement Administration classifies the drug under Schedule IV controlled substances. 

 

Uses of Ativan:

Medical professionals have classified it as an efficient anti-anxiety, antipsychotic, and anticonvulsant medication that is approved for the use of short-term treatment only. The primary reason is because of its high potential for dependence and abuse this benzodiazepine is used for treating insomnia, anxiety, status epilepticus, panic attacks, unjustified fears, restlessness, and also to control spasms and seizures. It is also used efficiently for the treatment of alcohol withdrawal symptoms. People do order Ativan Online for the treatment of various other conditions too but when doing so it is mandatory to consult a doctor and consume them under their guidance. 

 

Mechanism of Action

The components of this medication bind themselves to the benzodiazepine receptors on the postsynaptic GABA- A ligand at several sites within the CNS. This action enhances the inhibitory effects of the GABA neurotransmitters. The conductance of chloride ions happens in the cell which results in their hyperpolarization of them. The inhibitory action that happens in the amygdala is responsible for reducing anxiety conditions while the inhibitory effects that happen in the cerebral cortex are beneficial for seizure disorders. 

 

Adverse Effects:

There are specific effects associated with the usage of this medication however they occur only in rare instances or unsuitable conditions. The side effects are common in those who do not take the medication as per the instruction of their physician. Adverse effects can be avoided when the consumption of the dosage amounts is as per the recommended amount. The following are the negative effects that tend to occur. 

 

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Nausea
• Forgetfulness or amnesia
• Constipation
• Loss of balance or coordination
• Sleep problems (insomnia)
• Tiredness
• Muscle weakness
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Changes in appetite
• Skin rash
• Difficulty concentrating

 

Unknown symptoms 

• serious sluggishness
• abrupt fretful inclination or fervor
• dark urine, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• disarray, animosity, hallucinations
• contemplations of self-destruction or harming yourself
• vision changes
• rest issues
• surprising changes in the state of mind or conduct, being upset or loquacious

 

Warnings & Precautions

The medication should be taken exactly as per the instructions of their doctor. Before you start taking them, read through the medication guide carefully and follow carefully the instructions given. It can be taken before or after having food, your doctor will advise you on this based on your response to treatment. Your complete medical history should be provided to avoid unpleasant events happening while you take this medication.  Also, update them about any medication or drugs that you have been taking in the past and your reaction to them. 

When taken in higher doses, the effects can be life-threatening and in extreme cases can even lead to death. Not to be administered to children who are below the age of 15. Consult with your doctor about the usage of Ativan during pregnancy. 

 

Misuse and Abuse of Ativan 

Ativan is a federally controlled benzodiazepine and is categorized under schedule IV due to its high potential to get misused. When taken in higher doses, it tends to have a euphoric effect that is much preferred by recreational users. Doing so can cause severe allergic reactions, develop tolerance, and result in addiction. On the off chance that is left untreated, it could actually prompt demise.

 

Interaction with Alcohol:

This benzodiazepine can possibly interact with liquor and cause extreme incidental effects.

 The combined depressive effects of both these substances can cause slow functioning of the central nervous system, respiratory depression, increased sedation, coma, and death. 

 

The medication can likely cause severe drowsiness and dizziness in patients so they are advised not to do any tasks that require concentration such as operating machinery or driving vehicles. It can greatly decrease the physical and psychological functioning of the individual.