Ativan (lorazepam)

Ativan side effects

Ativan can cause mild or serious side effects. The following list contains some of the key side effects that may occur while taking Ativan. This list doesn’t include all possible side effects.

For more information on the possible side effects of Ativan, or tips on how to deal with a troubling side effect, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. You can also see this overview of Ativan’s side effects in addition to the information below.

Note: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) tracks and reviews side effects of drugs it has approved. If you would like to notify the FDA about a side effect you’ve had with Ativan, you can do so through MedWatch.

More common side effects

The more common side effects of Ativan include:

• drowsiness or sleepiness
• dizziness
• weakness

Some people may also experience less frequent side effects such as:

• confusion
• lack of coordination
• depression
• fatigue
• headache
• restlessness
• changes in libido (sex drive)
• memory problems

In people who receive Ativan as an injection, redness or deepening of skin color, and pain at the injection site can commonly occur.

Some of these side effects may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks. If they’re more severe or don’t go away, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Serious side effects

Serious side effects from Ativan aren’t common, but they can occur. Call your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects. Call 911 if your symptoms feel life threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency.

Serious side effects and their symptoms can include the following:

• Breathing effects. Symptoms can include:
  • slowed breathing
  • respiratory failure, which is rare
• Low blood pressure, which may be severe enough to cause fainting or falls.
• Convulsions or seizures. Symptoms can include:
  • uncontrollable, sudden movements in your arms or legs
  • loss of consciousness or awareness
  • stiff muscles
  • staring spells
• Paradoxical reactions (reactions that cause effects opposite of those expected with the drug), such as aggression, hostility, agitation, or rage.
• Dependence, misuse, and addiction, which are more likely in people who take higher doses of Ativan or use it long term, or those who misuse alcohol or drugs.*† Symptoms of physical dependence can include:
  • anxiety
  • depression
  • muscle weakness
  • nightmares
  • body aches
  • sweating
  • nausea
  • vomiting
• Serious allergic reactions. Symptoms can include:
  • severe rash or hives
  • difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • swelling of your lips, tongue, or face
  • rapid heartbeat
• Suicidal thoughts. (Because of this, Ativan should be avoided by people with depression that’s not treated.)
• Life threatening side effects if taken with opioid medications.* (See the “Ativan interactions” section for details.)

* Ativan oral tablets and injectable solution have a boxed warning regarding this risk. A boxed warning is the strongest warning required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Boxed warnings alert doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.
† With dependence, your body needs a drug in order to function like usual. With misuse, a drug is taken in a way other than how it’s prescribed. And with addiction, it’s difficult to stop taking a drug, even though it’s causing harmful outcomes.

Side effects in children

Ativan oral tablets aren’t approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in children younger than 12 years. They’re sometimes used off-label in children under 12 years, but this use hasn’t been confirmed to be safe.

Ativan injectable solution isn’t approved by the FDA for use in children younger than age 18 years.

Children may be more likely than adults to experience certain side effects from Ativan.

Side effects in older people

In older adults (ages 65 years and older), Ativan should be used cautiously or avoided altogether. Many older people are more likely to experience side effects such as drowsiness or dizziness. This can increase their risk of falls, which can lead to bone fractures. Lower dosages are often needed for older people.

Long-term side effects

Studies of Ativan oral tablets for treating anxiety didn’t evaluate whether it’s safe to take the drug for longer than 4 months.

Long-term use of Ativan should be avoided when possible because it can cause serious side effects. These include:

• Dependence, misuse, and addiction:* Ativan is a habit-forming drug. This means that long-term use can cause physical and psychological dependence. (With dependence, your body needs a drug in order to function like usual.) It can also cause serious withdrawal symptoms when the medication is stopped. (Withdrawal symptoms are side effects that can occur when you stop taking a drug that your body has become dependent on.) Taking Ativan may also lead to misuse and addiction. (With misuse, a drug is taken in a way other than how it’s prescribed. And with addiction, it’s difficult to stop taking a drug, even though it’s causing harmful outcomes.)
• Rebound effects: In addition, long-term use of Ativan for sleep or anxiety can cause “rebound insomnia” or “rebound anxiety.” This means symptoms of your condition may return with increased intensity when you stop taking Ativan after using it for an extended time, which can make it even harder to stop taking the drug.

If you’ve been taking Ativan regularly for a long time, talk with your doctor about other medication options, and how you might be able to stop taking Ativan.

* Ativan oral tablets and injectable solution have a boxed warning regarding this risk. A boxed warning is the strongest warning required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Boxed warnings alert doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.

Driving warning

Ativan can impair your ability to drive. If you feel lightheaded or sleepy after taking it, don’t drive. Also, don’t use dangerous equipment.

Nausea

It’s not common, but some people who take Ativan can feel nauseated. This side effect may go away with continued use of the drug. If nausea doesn’t go away or is bothersome, talk with your doctor.

Headache

Some people who take Ativan report having headaches afterward. This side effect may go away with continued use of the drug. If headaches don’t get better or are bothersome, talk with your doctor.

Slowed breathing

Ativan can cause your breathing to slow down. In rare cases, this can lead to respiratory failure.

Slowed breathing is more likely to occur in people who are:

• older in age
• receiving high doses of Ativan
• taking other medications that affect breathing, such as opioids
• severely ill or have a breathing disorder such as sleep apnea or chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD)

Weight gain or weight loss

Clinical studies of Ativan oral tablets and injectable solution do not report weight gain or weight loss as side effects of the drug. However, weight changes may still occur. If you have concerns about your weight while taking Ativan, talk with your doctor.

Memory loss

Some people who take Ativan can have memory loss. If this happens, you may have difficulty remembering things that occurred while you were taking the medication.

Memory loss may be temporary and may go away after you stop taking Ativan. If this side effect doesn’t get better or is bothersome, talk with your doctor.

Constipation

It’s not common, but some people who take Ativan report constipation. This side effect may go away with continued use of the drug. If it doesn’t get better or is bothersome, talk with your doctor.

Vertigo

It’s not common, but some people who take Ativan can experience vertigo. Vertigo is a feeling that things around you are moving when they’re not. People with vertigo often feel dizzy.

It’s not clear if Ativan is the actual cause of symptoms of vertigo. Also, Ativan is sometimes used off-label to treat people who have symptoms of vertigo caused by other conditions such as Meniere’s disease.

Hallucinations

It’s rare, but some people who take Ativan have hallucinations. If you have this side effect, talk with your doctor about alternatives to Ativan.

Ativan dosage

The Ativan dosage your doctor prescribes will depend on several factors. These include:

• the type and severity of the condition you’re using Ativan to treat
• your age
• the form of Ativan you take
• other medical conditions you may have

Typically, your doctor will start you on a low dosage and adjust it over time to reach the dosage that’s right for you. They’ll ultimately prescribe the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect.

The following information describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. However, be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. Your doctor will determine the best dosage to suit your needs. In addition to the information below, this article provides details about Ativan’s dosage.

Drug forms and strengths

Ativan comes as oral tablets and an injectable solution that’s given by intramuscular (IM) injection or intravenous (IV) injection. The available strengths of each form are described below.

Ativan oral tablet strengths: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg

Ativan oral tablets come in the following strengths:

• 0.5 milligrams (mg)
• 1 mg
• 2 mg

Ativan injectable solution strengths: 2 mg/mL and 4 mg/mL

Ativan injectable solution comes in the following strengths:

• 2 mg of drug per milliliter (mL) of solution
• 4 mg/mL

General dosage information for Ativan oral tablets

The usual oral dosage for Ativan oral tablets is 2 to 6 mg daily. This dosage amount is usually divided and taken two or three times daily.

Dosage of Ativan oral tablets for anxiety

Typical dosage: 2 to 3 mg taken two or three times daily.

Dosage of Ativan oral tablets for insomnia due to anxiety or stress

Typical dosage: 2 to 4 mg at bedtime.

Dosage of Ativan solution for IM or IV injection

Ativan injectable solution will be given as an IV or IM injection by your healthcare professional. Your doctor will determine the best dosage for your condition.

Special dosage considerations

Older adults (ages 65 and older) and people with certain physical conditions may need to start with a lower dosage. This might be 1 to 2 mg, taken two or three times daily for anxiety or once at bedtime for insomnia caused by anxiety.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. However, if it’s just a few hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one on schedule.

Never try to catch up by taking two doses at a time. This can cause dangerous side effects.

Ativan generic

Ativan contains the active drug lorazepam. Both the oral tablet and injectable solution form of Ativan are available as generic medications.

Generic drugs are often less expensive than the brand-name version. In some cases, the brand-name drug and the generic version may be available in different forms and strengths.

To learn more about generic lorazepam oral tablets, see this article.

Ativan uses

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves drugs to treat certain conditions. Ativan is approved to treat several conditions. In addition, it’s sometimes used off-label for purposes that aren’t approved by the FDA. (With off-label use, a drug is prescribed for a condition other than those it’s approved to treat.)

Ativan’s most common use

Ativan is most commonly prescribed for anxiety. Ativan oral tablet is approved to help manage anxiety in adults and children ages 12 years and older. The FDA first approved Ativan in 1977 as a sedative and anxiety medication, and doctors still prescribe the oral tablets for short-term, fast-acting treatment of anxiety.

Keep reading to learn about Ativan for treating anxiety, as well as the drug’s other uses.

Ativan for anxiety

Ativan oral tablets are FDA-approved for managing anxiety disorders, including the short-term treatment of anxiety symptoms. To learn more about anxiety, you can refer to our anxiety hub.

Ativan oral tablets are also commonly prescribed off-label for treating panic attacks.

Ativan for sleep or insomnia

Ativan oral tablets are FDA-approved for the short-term treatment of insomnia that’s caused by anxiety or stress.

Ativan oral tablets are also prescribed off-label for other types of insomnia. However, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, it’s not a first-choice medication for this use.

To learn more about sleep, you can refer to our science of sleep hub.

Ativan for seizures

Ativan injectable solution is FDA-approved for treating a severe type of seizure called status epilepticus. With this condition, seizures don’t stop, or one seizure comes after another without allowing the person time to recover.

To learn more about seizures, you can refer to our epilepsy and seizures hub.

Ativan for sedation during surgery

Ativan injectable solution is FDA-approved to cause sleep before surgery.

Non-FDA-approved uses

Ativan is also sometimes prescribed off-label. Off-label use is when a drug is approved for one use but is prescribed for a different use.

Ativan for nausea from vertigo

Ativan is sometimes used off-label for the short-term treatment of symptoms of vertigo. These symptoms include nausea and vomiting. In some cases, Ativan may be used along with other medications for this purpose.

Ativan for depression

Ativan and other similar medications aren’t prescribed to treat depression itself. However, some people with depression also have symptoms of anxiety or insomnia. In these cases, your doctor may prescribe Ativan to reduce those symptoms.

If you have depression only, your doctor will likely prescribe a different medication.

Ativan for pain

Ativan isn’t typically used to treat pain itself. However, people who have severe, long-lasting pain are often prescribed Ativan or similar medications. This may be because they have anxiety or difficulty sleeping due to their pain.

People with severe pain are often treated with opioid pain medications. Ativan and other benzodiazepine medications shouldn’t be used with opioids. This is due to the risk of life threatening side effects such as serious sedation, decreased breathing, coma, and death.

If you’re taking an opioid pain medication with Ativan, talk with your doctor about safer options.

Ativan for migraine

Ativan is not approved to treat symptoms of migraine, such as headache. But it may be prescribed off-label for migraine in some cases. (With off-label use, a drug is prescribed for a condition other than those it’s approved to treat.)

Also, keep in mind that headache is a possible side effect of this drug.

Other off-label uses for Ativan

Ativan may also be prescribed off-label to treat other conditions such as:

• agitation
• alcohol withdrawal
• nausea and vomiting related to chemotherapy
• anxiety when flying

Ativan vs. Xanax

You may wonder how Ativan and Xanax compare, and whether Ativan is stronger than Xanax. These medications both belong to the class of drugs called benzodiazepines. They work in the same way and are very similar medications.

The generic name of Xanax is alprazolam, while the generic name of Ativan is lorazepam.

Uses

Ativan and Xanax are used for similar and different purposes.

Drug forms

Ativan is available as an oral tablet and injectable solution that’s given as an intramuscular injection or intravenous injection by a healthcare professional. The oral tablet is usually taken one to three times per day.

Xanax is available as an oral tablet, which is usually taken three times daily. It’s also available as an extended-release (ER) tablet, which is taken just once daily. (“ER” means the drug is slowly released into your body over a long period of time.)

Side effects and risks

Ativan and Xanax have some similar side effects, and some that differ. Below are examples of these side effects.

More common side effects

More common side effects that Ativan and Xanax share include:

• drowsiness
• dizziness
• weakness
• lack of coordination
• confusion
• depression
• fatigue
• headache
• increase or decrease in libido (sex drive)
• memory problems
• constipation

In addition to these, other side effects that Xanax can cause include:

• weight gain or loss
• irregular menstruation

Serious side effects

Possible serious side effects that Ativan and Xanax share include:

• physical dependence, misuse, and addiction*†
• life threatening side effects when used with opioid medications*
• paradoxical (unexpected) reactions, such as aggression, hostility, agitation, or rage
• low blood pressure, which may be severe enough to cause fainting or falls
• convulsions or seizures

* Ativan oral tablets, Ativan injectable solution, and Xanax have a boxed warning regarding this risk. A boxed warning is the strongest warning required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Boxed warnings alert doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.
† With dependence, your body needs a drug in order to function like usual. With misuse, a drug is taken in a way other than how it’s prescribed. And with addiction, it’s difficult to stop taking a drug, even though it’s causing harmful outcomes.

Effectiveness

Ativan and Xanax are both used to treat anxiety symptoms. Xanax is also FDA-approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder and panic attacks. Ativan may be prescribed off-label to treat those conditions, too.

Both Ativan and Xanax work quickly, but Ativan may last slightly longer than Xanax.

• When they start working: Both drugs start to work 15 to 30 minutes after you take them.
• How long they last: Ativan oral tablets have a peak effect about 2 to 3 hours after taking a dose, while Xanax peaks within 1 to 2 hours after a dose. However, Ativan may last slightly longer than Xanax.

Costs

Ativan and Xanax are both brand-name medications. They’re also both available in generic form. The generic version of a drug usually costs less than the brand-name version. The generic name of Xanax is called alprazolam.

The actual price you’ll pay for either drug depends on your insurance plan and your location.

In addition to the information above, you can refer to this comparison of Ativan and Xanax.

Ativan vs. other drugs

You may wonder how Ativan compares to other medications that are prescribed for similar uses. Below are comparisons between Ativan and several medications.

Ativan vs. Klonopin

Ativan and Klonopin work in the same way and are very similar medications. They both belong to the class of drugs called benzodiazepines.

The generic name of Klonopin is clonazepam, while the generic name of Ativan is lorazepam.

Uses

Although Ativan and Klonopin are similar medications, they’re FDA-approved for different uses.

Ativan is approved for:

• short-term treatment of symptoms of anxiety
• treating insomnia due to anxiety or stress
• treating a severe type of seizure called status epilepticus
• providing sedation before surgery

Klonopin is approved for treating:

• different types of seizures such as Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and myoclonic seizure
• panic attacks

Klonopin may be prescribed off-label for treating anxiety symptoms, insomnia, and status epilepticus.

Drug forms

Ativan is available as an oral tablet and as an injectable solution that’s given by intramuscular injection or intravenous injection. The oral tablet is usually taken one to three times per day. The solution is given by a healthcare professional.

Klonopin is available as an oral tablet that’s usually taken one to three times per day.

Side effects and risks

Ativan and Klonopin have similar side effects. Both drugs can cause these more common side effects:

• drowsiness
• dizziness
• weakness
• lack of coordination
• confusion
• depression
• fatigue
• headache

Both can also cause these serious side effects:

• physical dependence, misuse, and addiction*†
• life threatening side effects when used with opioid medications*
• paradoxical (unexpected) reactions, such as aggression, hostility, agitation, or rage
• low blood pressure, which may be severe enough to cause fainting or falls
• convulsions or seizures

* Ativan oral tablets, Ativan injectable solution, and Klonopin have a boxed warning regarding this risk. A boxed warning is the strongest warning required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Boxed warnings alert doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.
† With dependence, your body needs a drug in order to function like usual. With misuse, a drug is taken in a way other than how it’s prescribed. And with addiction, it’s difficult to stop taking a drug, even though it’s causing harmful outcomes.

Effectiveness

Ativan and Klonopin have both been shown effective for their approved uses. Both drugs work quickly, but Klonopin may last longer than Ativan

• When they start working: Both Ativan and Klonopin start to work within 15 to 30 minutes of when you take them.
• How long they last: Ativan oral tablets have a peak effect within about 2 to 3 hours of when you take them. Klonopin has a peak effect within 1 to 4 hours of when you take it.

Costs

Ativan and Klonopin are both brand-name medications. They’re also both available in generic form. The generic version of a drug usually costs less than the brand-name version. The generic name of Klonopin is called clonazepam.

The actual price you’ll pay for either drug depends on your insurance plan and your location.

Ativan vs. Valium

Ativan and Valium both belong to the class of drugs called benzodiazepines. They work in the same way and are very similar medications.

The generic name of Valium is diazepam, while the generic name of Ativan is lorazepam.

Uses

Ativan and Valium are used for similar and different purposes.

Drug forms

Ativan is available as an oral tablet and injectable solution that’s given by intramuscular injection or intravenous injection. The oral tablet is usually taken one to three times per day. The solution is given by a healthcare professional.

Valium is also available as an oral tablet, which is typically taken one to four times daily.

Side effects and risks

Ativan and Valium have some similar side effects, and some that differ. Below are examples of these side effects.

More common side effects

More common side effects that Ativan and Valium share include:

• drowsiness
• dizziness
• weakness
• lack of coordination
• confusion
• depression
• fatigue
• headache
• increase or decrease in libido (sex drive)
• memory problems

In addition to these, other side effects that Valium can cause include:

• weight loss
• urinary problems such as incontinence

Serious side effects

Possible serious side effects that Ativan and Valium share include:

• physical dependence, misuse, and addiction*†
• life threatening side effects when used with opioid medications*
• paradoxical (unexpected) reactions, such as aggression, hostility, agitation, or rage
• low blood pressure, which may be severe enough to cause fainting or falls
• convulsions or seizures

* Ativan oral tablets, Ativan injectable solution, and Valium have a boxed warning regarding this risk. A boxed warning is the strongest warning required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Boxed warnings alert doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.
† With dependence, your body needs a drug in order to function like usual. With misuse, a drug is taken in a way other than how it’s prescribed. And with addiction, it’s difficult to stop taking a drug, even though it’s causing harmful outcomes.

Effectiveness

Ativan and Valium have both been shown to be effective for their approved uses. Both drugs work quickly, but Valium may last longer than Ativan.

• When they start working: Ativan starts working within 15 to 30 minutes. Valium starts working within about 15 to 60 minutes.
• How long they last: Ativan oral tablets have a peak effect within about 2 to 3 hours after taking a dose. Valium has a peak effect a little more than 1 hour after a dose is taken. It remains in the body for about 32 to 48 hours.

Costs

Ativan and Valium are both brand-name medications. Both are also available in generic form. The generic version of a drug usually costs less than the brand-name version. The generic name of Valium is diazepam.

The actual price you’ll pay for either drug depends on your insurance plan and your location.

Ativan vs. Ambien

Ativan and Ambien have some similar effects in the body. Both are considered to work as sedative drugs. This means they both cause sleepiness and sedation (relaxation).

However, these medications belong to different drug classes. Ativan is a benzodiazepine, while Ambien belongs to a class of drugs called non-benzodiazepine hypnotics.

The generic name of Ambien is zolpidem, while the generic name of Ativan is lorazepam.

Uses

Ativan is FDA-approved for many uses, including:

• short-term treatment of symptoms of anxiety
• treating insomnia due to anxiety or stress
• treating a severe type of seizure called status epilepticus
• providing sedation before surgery

Ambien is only FDA-approved for short-term treatment of insomnia.

Drug forms

Ativan is available as an oral tablet and injectable solution that’s given by intramuscular injection or intravenous injection. The oral tablet is usually taken one to three times per day. The solution is given by a healthcare professional.

Ambien is available as an oral tablet and as an extended-release tablet called Ambien CR. Both forms are taken once daily just before bedtime. (“Extended release” means the drug is slowly released into your body over a long period of time.)

Side effects and risks

Ativan and Ambien have some similar side effects, and some that differ. Below are examples of these side effects.

* Ativan oral tablets and injectable solution have a boxed warning regarding this risk. A boxed warning is the strongest warning required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Boxed warnings alert doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.
† With dependence, your body needs a drug in order to function like usual. With misuse, a drug is taken in a way other than how it’s prescribed. And with addiction, it’s difficult to stop taking a drug, even though it’s causing harmful outcomes.
‡ Ambien has a boxed warning for this side effect. These behaviors can include sleepwalking, and eating, driving, making phone calls, or having sex while asleep.

Effectiveness

The only condition that both Ativan and Ambien are approved to treat is insomnia caused by anxiety. Both are effective for treating this condition, although they haven’t been compared in clinical studies for this purpose.

Costs

Ativan and Ambien are both brand-name medications. Both are also available in generic form. The generic version of a drug usually costs less than the brand-name version. The generic name of Ambien is zolpidem.

The actual price you’ll pay for either drug depends on your insurance plan and your location.

Is Ativan a controlled substance?

Yes, Ativan is a controlled substance. It’s classified as a Schedule IV prescription drug. This means that it has an accepted medical use but may also cause physical or psychological dependence and may be misused.*

With dependence, your body needs a drug in order to function like usual. With misuse, a drug is taken in a way other than how it’s prescribed.

The government has created special rules for how Schedule IV drugs can be prescribed by a doctor and dispensed by a pharmacist. Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you more.

* Ativan oral tablets and injectable solution have a boxed warning regarding this risk. A boxed warning is the strongest warning required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Boxed warnings alert doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.

Ativan withdrawal

Some people can have bothersome withdrawal symptoms after stopping Ativan. Withdrawal symptoms are side effects that can occur when you stop taking a drug that your body is used to. These can occur after taking Ativan for only a few weeks. If Ativan is taken longer, withdrawal symptoms are more likely to occur. They’re also likely to be more severe.

Withdrawal symptoms can include:

• headache
• anxiety
• difficulty sleeping
• irritability
• tremor
• panic attacks
• depression
• convulsions
• suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• hallucinations

Talk with your doctor before stopping Ativan. Your doctor can help slowly reduce your dosage before you stop taking the drug completely.

Common questions about Ativan

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Ativan.

How long does Ativan last?

Most of the effects of Ativan oral tablets last about 6 to 8 hours. However, this can vary from person to person.

If you have questions about how Ativan works, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

How fast does Ativan work?

Ativan begins to work within minutes after it’s taken. But for tablets, the maximum effect usually happens about 2 to 3 hours after you take them.

Talk with your doctor or pharmacist to learn more about how Ativan works.

How does Ativan make you feel?

Ativan belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines. These medications can make you feel calm, sleepy, and generally relaxed. Ativan works to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.

However, side effects of benzodiazepines such as Ativan are possible. These side effects can include agitation, mood changes, and depression. Ativan may work differently for each person.

If you have questions or concerns about how Ativan makes you feel, you can talk with your doctor or a pharmacist to learn more.

When stopping Ativan, should you taper your dosage?

If you’ve been taking Ativan regularly, yes, you’ll likely need to slowly taper your dosage of the medication. If you don’t taper your dosage, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. (Withdrawal symptoms are side effects that can occur when you stop taking a drug that your body is used to.)

In some cases, the taper may last several weeks or even a few months. How slowly you taper the medication will depend on how much you’ve been taking and how long you’ve been using Ativan. Talk with your doctor before stopping Ativan to find out the best way to taper the medication.

What are the withdrawal effects of stopping Ativan?

Ativan can cause withdrawal effects in some people when they stop taking the medication. Withdrawal symptoms are side effects that can occur when you stop taking a drug that your body has become dependent on. These effects are more likely to happen if you’ve taken higher doses or taken Ativan for a long period of time.

Symptoms of withdrawal can include:

• headache
• anxiety
• difficulty sleeping
• irritability
• sweating
• dizziness

For people with severe Ativan dependence who abruptly stop taking it, more severe withdrawal symptoms can occur. These can include:

• hallucinations
• seizures
• tremor
• panic attacks

Talk with your doctor or pharmacist to learn more about withdrawal symptoms and how to manage them.

Is Ativan addictive?

Ativan may lead to physical and psychological dependence and addiction.*

With dependence, your body needs a drug in order to function like usual. With addiction, a drug is taken, even if it’s causing harmful outcomes.

Be sure to talk with your doctor about your risk of these side effects with Ativan. Your doctor can recommend whether this medication is right for you.

* Ativan oral tablets and injectable solution have a boxed warning regarding this risk. A boxed warning is the strongest warning required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Boxed warnings alert doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.

What are the effects of long-term use of Ativan?

Long-term use of Ativan can increase your risk of certain side effects, especially physical and psychological dependence.* This can lead to withdrawal symptoms (see above) when the medication is stopped.

Ativan is typically prescribed for short-term use of 2 to 4 weeks. If you’re concerned that you might need to use this medication for longer periods, talk with your doctor.

* Ativan oral tablets and injectable solution have a boxed warning regarding this risk. A boxed warning is the strongest warning required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Boxed warnings alert doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.

Ativan and alcohol

If you drink alcohol, you should not drink it during treatment with Ativan. Consuming alcohol with Ativan can increase the risk of serious side effects such as:

• breathing problems
• respiratory failure
• memory problems
• excessive sleepiness or sedation
• coma

It’s also important to note that Ativan can lower your tolerance to alcohol. This means you’ll feel more intoxicated than usual after drinking smaller amounts of alcohol. It also means you’re at higher risk for the side effects mentioned above if you consume alcohol while taking Ativan.

If you have questions about the safety of drinking alcohol while taking Ativan, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Ativan interactions

Ativan can interact with several other medications. It can also interact with certain supplements and foods.

Different interactions can cause different effects. For instance, some can interfere with how well a drug works, while others can cause increased side effects. In addition to the information below, you can refer to this article for details about Ativan’s interactions.

Ativan and other medications

Below is a list of medications that can interact with Ativan. This list doesn’t contain all drugs that may interact with Ativan.

Before taking Ativan, be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all prescription, over-the-counter, and other drugs you take. Also tell them about any vitamins, herbs, and supplements you use. Sharing this information can help you avoid potential interactions.

If you have questions about drug interactions that may affect you, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Ativan and opioids

Taking opioids with Ativan can cause dangerous side effects.* These include excessive drowsiness, breathing problems, respiratory failure, and coma.

Examples of these drugs include:

• morphine (Duramorph PF, MS Contin, and others)
• oxycodone (Percocet, OxyContin, and others)
• hydrocodone (Hysingla ER)
• methadone (Methadose)
• fentanyl (Actiq, others)

Opioids should only be used with Ativan when there are no other treatment alternatives.

* Ativan oral tablets and injectable solution have a boxed warning regarding this risk. A boxed warning is the strongest warning required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Boxed warnings alert doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.

Ativan and sedative drugs

Taking sedative drugs with Ativan can cause excessive drowsiness and breathing problems. Examples of sedative drugs include:

• anticonvulsant medications such as carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Epitol, Equetro, Tegretol), phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek), and topiramate (Qudexy XR, Topamax, Trokendi XR)
• antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), cetirizine (Zyrtec), chlorpheniramine, and doxylamine (Unisom), and also found in over-the-counter and combination products
• antipsychotic drugs such as clozapine (Versacloz), haloperidol (Haldol), quetiapine (Seroquel), and risperidone (Risperdal)
• anxiety drugs such as buspirone
• barbiturates such as phenobarbital
• other benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), diazepam (Valium), and midazolam (Nayzilam)

Ativan and probenecid

Taking Ativan with probenecid (Probalan), a drug that can be used to treat gout, can increase the levels of Ativan in your body. This can increase your risk of Ativan side effects. For people who take probenecid and Ativan together, the Ativan dosage needs to be reduced by half.

Ativan and valproic acid or divalproex

Taking Ativan with valproic acid or divalproex (Depakote), a drug used to treat seizures and other conditions, can increase the levels of Ativan in your body. This can increase your risk of Ativan side effects.

For people who take valproic acid or divalproex and Ativan together, the Ativan dosage needs to be reduced by half.

Ativan and Zoloft

Zoloft (sertraline) can make some people feel tired or drowsy. Ativan can also cause drowsiness. Taking these medications together may cause you to feel even more tired or drowsy.

Ativan and Ambien

Ativan and Ambien (zolpidem) shouldn’t be taken together. Both medications are used to help promote sleep. If taken together, they can cause excessive sleepiness and sedation.

Taking this combination of medications can also increase the risk of odd behaviors such as sleep-driving (trying to drive while asleep).

Ativan and Tylenol (not an interaction)

There are no known interactions between Ativan and Tylenol (acetaminophen).

Ativan and herbs and supplements

Taking Ativan with herbs or supplements that have sedative effects can cause excessive drowsiness. Examples of sedative herbs and supplements that can cause these effects include:

• chamomile
• kava
• lavender
• melatonin
• valerian

Ativan and cannabis

Cannabis should not be used with Ativan. Using cannabis with Ativan can cause excessive drowsiness or sedation.

Ativan classification

Ativan is classified as a benzodiazepine. These drugs are typically used to treat anxiety and insomnia, but can also be used to treat other conditions.

Benzodiazepines are often categorized by how fast they work (onset of action) and how long they last in the body (duration). This chart includes examples of these classifications.

Ativan overdose

Taking too much Ativan can increase your risk of harmful or serious side effects. In extreme cases, it can even be fatal. Do not take more Ativan than your doctor recommends.

Overdose symptoms

Symptoms of overdose can include:

• drowsiness
• confusion
• lethargy
• low blood pressure
• difficulty breathing
• coma

What to do in case of overdose

If you think you or your child has taken too much of this drug, call your doctor or seek guidance from America’s Poison Centers at 800-222-1222 or through its online tool. But if your symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away.

Ativan for dogs

Ativan is sometimes prescribed by veterinarians to sedate an animal during surgery or to treat seizures. It’s also used to help reduce stress or fears, especially related to loud noises.

If you think your dog or cat is in distress, see your veterinarian for an evaluation and treatment. Don’t give your pet any Ativan that your doctor has prescribed for you.

If you think your pet has eaten your Ativan, call your veterinarian immediately.

Ativan and pregnancy

Ativan can harm a fetus when taken by a pregnant person. You should avoid using Ativan during pregnancy.

If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor. They may advise you on how to stop taking Ativan.

Ativan and breastfeeding

You should not breastfeed while taking Ativan. This medication can pass through breast milk and cause side effects in a child who is breastfed.

Tell your doctor if you’re breastfeeding or planning to do so. Your doctor may recommend other ways to feed your child during treatment with Ativan, or they may prescribe a different medication to treat your condition.

Ativan alternatives

There are other medications that are often used to treat the same conditions as Ativan. Some may be better suited for you than others.

The best choice may depend on your age, the type and severity of your condition, and previous treatments you’ve used.

To learn more about other medications that may work well for you, talk with your doctor.

Note: Some of the drugs listed here are used off-label for treating conditions also treated by Ativan.

Medication alternatives

Examples of medications that could be used as alternatives to Ativan include:

• Antidepressants such as:
  • duloxetine (Cymbalta)
  • doxepin (Silenor)
  • escitalopram (Lexapro)
  • paroxetine (Paxil, Paxil CR, Pexeva, Brisdelle)
  • venlafaxine (Effexor XR)
• Buspirone, an anxiolytic drug
• Benzodiazepines such as:
  • alprazolam (Xanax)
  • diazepam (Valium)
  • midazolam (Nayzilam)
  • oxazepam

Herb and supplement alternatives

Some people use certain herbs and dietary supplements to help manage their anxiety. Examples include:

• kava
• lavender
• lemon balm
• passion flower
• rhodiola
• St. John’s wort
• valerian

Be sure to talk with your doctor before using herbs or supplements to treat your anxiety.

Ativan and drug testing

Taking Ativan may cause a positive result for benzodiazepines on urine drug screenings. If you’re taking Ativan, consider disclosing this information before completing a drug screening.

The length of time Ativan stays in your system varies from person to person, but it’s usually 3 to 5 days.

How to take Ativan

Ativan oral tablets should be taken in the way your doctor prescribed them. Don’t take more or less Ativan than prescribed without first talking with your doctor.

Timing

Ativan oral tablets are usually taken two or three times daily. These doses are usually spread out at equal intervals. However, when Ativan is used for insomnia caused by anxiety, it’s usually taken just once at bedtime.

Taking Ativan with food

You can take Ativan with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, try taking it with food to help decrease this side effect.

Can Ativan be crushed?

Yes, Ativan oral tablets can be crushed. Some Ativan oral tablets may also be split. If you’d like to split your tablets, ask your pharmacist if it’s safe to do so.

How Ativan works

Ativan belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines. These medications work by boosting the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) within your body.

GABA is a neurotransmitter that transmits messages between cells in different parts of your body. Increasing GABA in the body results in a tranquilizing effect that reduces feelings of stress and anxiety.

How long does it take to work?

Benzodiazepines such as Ativan are categorized based on how fast they work. Ativan is classified as having a rapid to intermediate onset (start) of action. It begins to work right away after it’s taken, but its peak effect occurs within 2 to 3 hours.

Ativan cost and coupons

As with all medications, the cost of Ativan can vary. The actual price you’ll pay depends on your insurance plan, your location, and the pharmacy you use.

Keep in mind that you may be able to get a 90-day supply of Ativan. Ativan is a controlled substance, so there may be certain laws in your state that limit the amount of Ativan you can fill at one time. If approved by your insurance company, getting a 90-day supply of the drug could reduce your number of trips to the pharmacy and help lower the cost. If you’re interested in this option, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance company.

Before approving coverage for Ativan, your insurance company may require you to get prior authorization. This means that your doctor and insurance company will need to communicate about your prescription before the insurance company will cover the drug. The insurance company will review the prior authorization request and decide whether the drug will be covered.

If you’re not sure whether you’ll need to get prior authorization for Ativan, contact your insurance company.

Financial and insurance assistance

If you need financial support to pay for Ativan, or if you need help understanding your insurance coverage, help is available.

Financial assistance to help you pay for Ativan may be available. Medicine Assistance Tool and NeedyMeds are two websites that provide resources to help reduce the cost of Ativan.

These websites also offer tools to help you find low cost healthcare and certain educational resources. To learn more, visit their websites.

To learn more about saving money on prescriptions, check out this article.

Mail-order pharmacies

Ativan may be available through a mail-order pharmacy. Using this service may help lower the drug’s cost and allow you to get your medication without leaving home.

If recommended by your doctor, you may be able to receive a 90-day supply of Ativan, so there’s less concern about running out of the medication. However, this option may only be available in certain states because Ativan is classified as a Schedule IV drug. If you’re interested in this option, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance company. Some Medicare plans may help cover the cost of mail-order medications.

If you don’t have insurance, you can ask your doctor or pharmacist about online pharmacy options.

Generic version

Ativan oral tablets and injectable solution are available in generic forms. A generic drug is an exact copy of the active drug in a brand-name medication. The generic is considered to be as safe and effective as the original drug. And generics tend to cost less than brand-name drugs.

If your doctor has prescribed Ativan and you’re interested in taking a generic form instead, talk with your doctor. They may have a preference for one version or the other. You’ll also need to check your insurance plan, as it may only cover one or the other.

Drug coupons

You can visit Optum Perks for price estimates of Ativan. These estimates are based on the use of Optum Perks coupons. Note: Optum Perks coupons cannot be used with insurance copays or benefits.

Save on Ativan with Optum Perks

Save on Ativan without insurance.

Enter your information:

EDIT

Location

47201

Dosage

1mg lorazepam (30 Tablets)

Save money without using insurance

Simply show the Optum Perks coupon at your preferred pharmacy or order online and instantly save up to 80% without using insurance. The coupon doesn’t expire, so be sure to save it for refills.

Find your pharmacy

SEARCH

advertisement

SEE MORE RESULTS

Retail price refers to the manufacturer’s published list price and is up to date as of 3/2023. Retail and discounted prices are U.S.-only and can vary based on region and pharmacy. We cannot guarantee that the discounted price listed here will exactly match the price at your pharmacy. Please contact your pharmacy for the exact price.

Optum Perks and Healthline are subsidiaries of RVO Health.

Pricing source:Perks.optum.com

---

Was this helpful?

Ativan precautions

Before taking Ativan, talk with your doctor about any medical conditions you have. Ativan may not be appropriate for you if you have certain medical conditions.

FDA warnings

This drug has boxed warnings. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It alerts doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.

• Using Ativan in combination with opioid medications can result in life threatening side effects. These effects include serious sedation, decreased breathing, coma, and death. Ativan and opioids should only be combined when there are no other treatment options. The lowest possible dosage should be used for the shortest time needed.
• Using Ativan, even as prescribed, can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal if you stop taking the drug suddenly. (With dependence, your body needs a drug in order to function like usual. Withdrawal symptoms are side effects that can occur when you stop taking a drug that your body has become dependent on.) Withdrawal can be life threatening. Taking this drug can also lead to misuse and addiction. (With misuse, a drug is taken in a way other than how it’s prescribed. With addiction, it’s difficult to stop taking a drug, even though it’s causing harmful outcomes.) Misuse of Ativan increases your risk of overdose and death. Only take this drug as your doctor prescribes. Talk with your healthcare professional if you have any concerns about safely taking this drug.

Other warnings

Before taking Ativan, talk with your doctor about your health history. This drug may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors affecting your health. These include:

• Depression: Ativan and other benzodiazepine medications can worsen symptoms of depression. Ativan should not be used by people with depression who aren’t receiving adequate treatment for this condition.
• Breathing disorders: Ativan can slow breathing. People with sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other breathing disorders should use Ativan cautiously or avoid it.
• Acute narrow-angle glaucoma: Ativan may increase the pressure inside the eye, worsening glaucoma. Due to this risk, doctors typically won’t prescribe Ativan to people with acute narrow-angle glaucoma.
• Kidney or liver problems: Having kidney or liver problems can affect how your body breaks down Ativan after you take a dose. Your doctor may prescribe a different Ativan dose if you have kidney or liver problems.
• Allergic reaction: If you’ve had an allergic reaction to Ativan or any of its ingredients, your doctor will likely not prescribe Ativan. Ask your doctor what other medications may be better options for you.
• Pregnancy: Ativan should not be taken during pregnancy. For more information, see the “Ativan and pregnancy” section above.
• Breastfeeding: Ativan should not be taken while breastfeeding. For more information, see the “Ativan and breastfeeding” section above.

Note: For more information about the potential negative effects of Ativan, see the “Ativan side effects” section above.

Ativan misuse

Some people who take Ativan can become physically and psychologically dependent on the drug.* (With dependence, your body needs the drug in order to function like usual.)

The risk of dependence increases if Ativan is used in doses that are higher than prescribed, or for long periods of time.

In some cases, Ativan dependence can lead to misuse (also called abuse) of the drug.* The risk is higher with people who have a history of alcohol or drug misuse. (With misuse, a drug is taken in a way other than how it’s prescribed.)

Symptoms of Ativan misuse can include:

• confusion
• loss of coordination
• memory problems
• sleep problems
• irritability
• unsteadiness when walking
• impaired judgment

* Ativan oral tablets and injectable solution have a boxed warning regarding this risk. A boxed warning is the strongest warning required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Boxed warnings alert doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.