Oral Lorazepam Tablet: Adverse Effects, Proper Dosage, and Additional Information
Lorazepam oral tablets are a commonly prescribed medication used to relieve anxiety and provide short-term help with sleep problems caused by anxiety or temporary stress. These tablets are a generic drug, with Ativan tablets being the brand-name medication they are based on.
Short-Term Use Recommended
Lorazepam oral tablets are typically short-term treatments, lasting no more than 2 to 4 weeks. The long-term safety and effectiveness of their use beyond 4 months have not been well-established by systematic clinical studies. Therefore, they are generally prescribed for short-term use due to risks of tolerance, dependence, and addiction.
Effectiveness and Side Effects
Lorazepam is effective for short-term management of anxiety, panic disorders, seizures, and related conditions. However, it's important to note that extended use can lead to tolerance (the drug becoming less effective) and dependence, meaning the body adapts and withdrawal symptoms can occur if use is stopped.
Mild side effects of lorazepam oral tablets can include sleepiness, weakness, dizziness, unsteadiness, problems with coordination, headache, fatigue, trouble with memory, confusion, visual changes such as double vision or blurred vision. More serious side effects can include respiratory depression, depression, suicidal thoughts or actions, allergic reaction, misuse and addiction, dependence and withdrawal, and risks if used with opioids.
Precautions and Interactions
Lorazepam oral tablets are not safe to take during pregnancy and should not be breastfed while taking lorazepam. They are not approved for use in children younger than 12 years of age.
Additionally, lorazepam oral tablets can interact with several other medications, including opioids, other benzodiazepines, sleeping pills, certain muscle relaxants, anticonvulsants, sedating antihistamines, antipsychotics, and certain antidepressants. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.
Prescription and Dosage
Lorazepam oral tablets are a prescription medication. The usual starting dosage for anxiety is 2 mg to 3 mg per day, and for insomnia caused by anxiety or temporary stress, it's 2 mg to 4 mg. The dosage may depend on several factors, such as age, weight, and overall health.
Important Considerations
When you stop treatment with lorazepam, you'll need to gradually stop taking the drug. Do not suddenly stop taking lorazepam. Missed doses should be taken as soon as possible, but if it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and just take your next dose when scheduled.
Lorazepam oral tablets should not be taken with alcohol. They also have a risk of misuse and addiction, particularly with high doses or prolonged use, posing serious treatment challenges such as seizures during withdrawal.
Alternatives and Crisis Support
Other drugs that may be used to treat anxiety include other benzodiazepines, buspirone, certain antidepressants, and beta-blockers. If you or someone you know is in crisis or considering suicide or self-harm, help is out there. You can reach out to a mental health professional or crisis hotline for support.
Conclusion
Lorazepam oral tablets are a valuable tool for managing anxiety and sleep problems in the short term. However, their long-term use should be approached cautiously due to uncertain long-term effectiveness and significant safety concerns. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalised advice and guidance.
- Given the potential risk of tolerance, dependence, and addiction with long-term use of Lorazepam, it is crucial to explore alternative treatments for mental-health conditions when considering health-and-wellness or sleep-related issues, such as other benzodiazepines, buspirone, certain antidepressants, and beta-blockers.
- In the context of science and safety, while Lorazepam can be an effective short-term treatment for anxiety and sleep problems, it is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential anthrax-like effects on the baby, and it is not approved for use in children younger than 12 years of age.
