Ativan (Lorazepam): Effective Anxiety Relief and Responsible Use Guidelines

What is Ativan (Lorazepam)?

Ativan, the branded name for medication Lorazepam is a prescription based drug which is mostly given to patients suffering from anxiety and its disorders. Like all benzodiazepines, Ativan works by decreasing the brain activity and relieving anxiety, panic attacks and anxiety related insomnia. Due to its addictive properties, If misused, it is also known to have the opposite effect of its intended calming purpose, which is why the medicine is issued for limited time spans.

How Does Ativan Work?

The reason behind Ativan being effective in treating anxiety is that it elevates the gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) levels in the body, a chemical which is a neurotransmitter responsible for calming and relaxing the body. By using the medicine this way, lowers the chances of future anxiety attacks such as anxiety, tension or overthinking. On the other hand, due to its potential for abuse, it is only recommended to patients for light to moderate anxiety or for a relapse under surveillance.

Benefits and Uses of Ativan

Light and moderate anxiety disorder and anxiety related events are Ativan’s most common prescribed uses and relief.

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): It assists patients in striving to be more active by helping them overcome their stubborn anxiety, rage and uprightness.
• Panic Disorder: It helps the user recover from panic episodes rapidly, while also helping to lessen the severity and the number of episodes.
• Sleep Aid for insomnia: Usually used when anxiety along with insomnia interferes with sleep.
• Anxiety relief prior to a surgical procedure: Occasionally given before a medical procedure to put the patient at ease. 

Thanks to its fast action, Ativan can be effective in managing situations when the patient has extreme anxiety symptoms and immediate help is required. 

Ativan dosage and Forms

It has a pleasant effect of quick needle and a 12-hour time-released formulation so patients can easily use over-the-counter, but every person has different needs, Among those are dosages.

• Oral tablets: Comes in an IMMEDIATE RELEASE ANXIETY SPREADING drug.
• Injectable form: The injection is effective in treating dilution and anxiety in the hospital in a short time.
• Sublingual/ Oral tablets: the sublingual dose is fast. tablets which can be given to the patient who has difficulty swallowing tablets.

Dosages vary depending on the age of the patient, medical history, the severity of the disease, etc. Prescribed dosage & healthcare provider’s instructions should always be followed. 

Safety Concerns And Side Effects

Ativan is effective but with the knowledge of safety precautions as well as knowing the side effects for an effective use is vital.

Common Side Effects

Common, mild side effects of Ativan may include:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Mild cognitive impairment or memory issues

These effects are usually temporary and lessen as the body adjusts to the medication.

Severe Side Effects and Risks

However, that is not the case with everyone. If Ativan is prescribed to you, make sure you are vigilant of every change it brings, for a few changes maybe serious including:

Respiratory Depression: Slow or shallow breathing is not uncommon when you take other alcohol or sedatives with Ativan you may feel more nauseous and dizzy.

Dependency and Withdrawal: After prolonged use you may find it hard to live without the drug and once you stop taking it, there may be serious repercussions, therefore make sure your doctor is aware of your history with Ativan.

Mood and Behavioral Changes: You may feel a rollercoaster of emotions on it. Make sure to let your doctor know the severity of it.

Long term use of Ativan is not advisable as it is addictive and hard to get off it. If you suffer from anxiety disorders, speak to your doctor to get better suited medications instead.

Who Should Avoid Ativan?

Depends on your lifestyle, if you fall under any of the mentioned criteria, avoiding Aivan is the right choice:

• If you have a drug addiction history or have abused drugs you should avoid Ativan as it mainly affects the brain.
• Patients who suffer respiratory issues like asthma should consult their doctor first before taking Ativan.
• If you are pregnant or become pregnant during the course of taking Ativan, breastfeeding is not advised as your baby can be severely affected by it.
• People who use other sedative medications or substances should avoid the combination because it increases the chance of severe respiratory depression.

How to Buy Ativan Online Without Getting Scammed?

Buying Ativan online follows suit with a slew such as verifying if patient is of legal age, having a medical prescription amongst others.

1. Buy Only From Licensed Pharmacies: Stick to buying from pharmacies that are regulated by pharmacy licensing bodies like verified internet Pharmacy practice sites (VIPPS.)

2. Need A Medical Certificate: Stay away from sites that sell Ativan in the absence of a prescription because legit pharmacy sites will always request a prescription from licensed doctors.

3. Look For The Rating And Reviews: Seek reviews and ratings to ascertain the reliability of the pharmacy.

Exploring Non-Ativan Options for Anxiety Relief

There are a wide range of alternatives available for anxiety treatment such as Non Benzodiazepine alternatives to long term medications, to mention a few.

• SSRIs and SNRIs Depression: Treatment SSRIs and SNRIs are depression – treatment medications that cover sertraline (tablets) and venlafaxin mostly for generalised anxiety which are intended for long term usage.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): An evidenced based form of therapy designed to help patients understand anxiety triggers and how to respond.
• Changes in activities: If anxiety is caused by stress management techniques, exercising and relaxation on a more regular occurrence will help manage the increase in anxiety over time more naturally.

FAQs Concerning The Use Of Ativan (Lorazepam)

1.       What is the duration it takes for Ativan to work?

The dose of orally taken Ativan begins to take effect after 20-30 minutes, with peak effects occurring around 60-120 minutes of ingestion. It is noted that sublingual and injectable forms may take effect faster.

2.       Is it possible to take Ativan along with other drugs?

We completely advise you against it due to the increase in the odds of suffering serious side effects, however, if you want to have Ativan and another central nervous system depressant like alcohol or opioids, get permission from the physician in charge.

3.       Is Ativan referred to for prolonged periods?

Due to the risk of addiction, Ativan is mostly used only in the short run unless there are special circumstances that warrant its use for a longer duration. Other forms of medications or therapies are often recommended for longer-term management of anxiety.

Conclusion:

Ativan should be used with caution, but once taken it boosts calmness and alleviates anxiety. This medication can be useful for patients who are looking for short-term relief but want to regain their composure. It is necessary to check with your physician to ensure whether this drug is suitable for your medical needs as patient safety is paramount.