Information on LORAZEPAM for
Service Users and their Families
This leaflet provides general information about your medication.
Manufacturer patient information leaflets are also provided with all
medicines. If you require further information speaks to your doctor,
pharmacist or nurse.
Lorazepam is also known as Ativan®. It comes as a tablet. It may
be given as an injection in hospitals.
Lorazepam is pronounced
Law-ra-ze-pam
Reviewed by: On: Next Review:
DTC January 30th 2009 January 2010
What is Lorazepam for?
Lorazepam is part of a group of medicines called anxiolytics. It is
used for short-term treatment of anxiety and sleeping problems. It
may also be used to treat fits or to relax people who are going for
operations.
How should I take Lorazepam?
Before taking lorazepam, tell your doctor if:
• you have an allergy to lorazepam
• you suffer from lung or breathing problems, liver or kidney
problems, glaucoma, liver or kidney problems, depression and
very weak or tired muscles
• you take any other medication
• you are pregnant (or planning pregnancy) or breastfeeding
Your doctor will decide how much lorazepam is right for you to
take. Lorazepam should be swallowed whole, with a glass of
water. Lorazepam may be taken with or without food. If you have
been prescribed an injection, your nurse will give you the correct
dose. Never take more than the prescribed dose. Ask your
pharmacist or nurse if you are not sure of anything.
Can I stop taking Lorazepam if I feel better?
Lorazepam is normally used for short periods of time to prevent
you becoming used to it and reduce the risk of addiction. It is
better to discuss with your doctor how long you will need to be on
medication.
If you want to stop your medication it is better to do so in
discussion with your doctor, and slowly so that you can be
monitored for any unpleasant withdrawal effects.
How soon will Lorazepam start to work?
Lorazepam starts to work within an hour.
What if I forget a dose of Lorazepam?
If you forget to take a dose of lorazepam, take your next dose at
the usual time. Do not try to make up for the missed dose.
Remember, if you take lorazepam too late at night you may feel
more drowsy the next morning.
Are there any side effects?
Lorazepam can cause side effects in some people, but these may
vary from person to person. Many side effects wear off over time.
Known side effects include:
• drowsiness
• dizziness
• lightheadedness
• muscle weakness
• confusion
• sickness or vomiting
• stomach problems
• headaches
• dry mouth
• addiction, with long term use
• sexual problems
Injections can cause swelling and redness at the site of injection.
Tell your nurse if this happens.
Occasionally, more serious side effects can occur. These may
include:
• severe rashes
• eyesight problems
• blood disorders
• tremor
• changes in balance, feeling shaky or unsteady
• changes in behaviour
• loss of memory
• breathing difficulties
If you are concerned about side effects, talk to your doctor,
pharmacist or nurse.
Can I take other medicines?
Lorazepam may interact with other medicines causing unwanted
side effects. Medicines you can buy over the counter without a
prescription may interact with prescribed medicines.
Always ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other
medicines.
Can I drive?
Lorazepam can make you feel sleepy and less alert. You may
also feel drowsy the next day. If you are affected in this way, do
not drive or work with machinery.
Can I drink alcohol?
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking lorazepam. The combination of
alcohol and lorazepam can make you feel more sleepy than usual.
Can I get pregnant or breast-feed?
Medicines can have harmful effects at any time during pregnancy.
If you are pregnant, or are planning to get pregnant, you should
seek advice from your doctor. You and your doctor or specialist
will decide if the potential benefits of treatment outweigh the
potential risks to the baby.
Lorazepam may pass into breast milk. If you are breast feeding,
you should get your doctor’s advice.
What alternative treatments are there?
Lorazepam can be used for various different reasons. Your doctor
or pharmacist will be able to provide you with further information
about alternatives to this medication.
IMPORTANT
Remember to keep medicines where children cannot see or reach
them. Never share medicines with others even if their symptoms
appear the same as yours.
Never exceed the stated dose of your medicine.
The Mersey Care Medicines Information Service regularly updates
this information sheet.
Medicines Information Service
Mossley Hill Hospital
Park Avenue
LIVERPOOL
L18 8BU