Ativan: Uses, Dosages, Side effects and Related Warnings.

Ativan is a drug that enhances the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain and helps relieve anxiety. This drug is not permitted for regular supplies in parts of the world as the ingredients in Ativan are dangerous for consumption. This drug is not to be sold without a prescription. This blog is a compilation of all the uses, dosages, side effects, and warnings related to the active drug. In addition, we will provide an emphasis on the Ativan side effects and Ativan dosages.

Uses of Ativan

Ativan uses are below:

• Anxiety disorders(short-term relief from anxiety)
• Anxiety associated with depressive symptoms.
• In patients having an elevated risk of side effects, there is a necessity for counseling about the risks and proper use of Ativan.

Still, one needs to properly monitor the signs and symptoms of abuse and addiction. Then, prescribe the lowest dose and minimize the abuse. Suppose there is an elevated level of the drug in the system. Then the patients should stop it and try other medications, as the overuse can be life-threatening.

How to take Ativan

It is essential to be in the doctor's regular care while taking this medication as they can better describe the dosage of the drug. Take this medication by mouth, which can be taken with or without food. The dosage of the medicine can be discontinued, as age and response to treatment. To help you remember the dosage, take it at the same time every day.

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Ativan dosage

The dosage of Ativan is given higher composition followed by a lower one. Adults can take 2-3mg of tablet or capsule two to three times per day. And after that, we can reduce it to 1mg to maintain the dosage.  Ativan dosage required for Kids older than 12 is the same as for adults, which is limited to one daily dose. Adults can be prescribed more, from 1-10mg/day.  If you need to increase the dose, you should avoid adverse effects. When a higher dosage is indicated, the evening dose should be increased to the daytime.

Ativan side effects

Get help if you have signs of allergic reactions to Ativan. The allergic reaction can include hives, difficulty breathing, facial, lips, tongue, or throat swelling. This medication can slow breathing and can be used against medicines and alcohol. A person having the side effects should seek emergency help. If you have long, slow pauses while breathing, blue-colored lips, or difficulty waking up, then you should seek medical help. Call your doctor if you experience the following:-

1. Severe drowsiness
2. Agitated or more talkative than usual
3. Sudden restlessness 
4. No feelings or excitement
5. Unusual mood changes
6. Thoughts of suicide
7. Sleep problems
8. Vision changes
9. Dark urine or jaundice, aggression, and hallucinations are common

Drowsiness can be longer in adults, and they can be cautious against falling or accidental injuries. Common side effects of Ativan include-

• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Weaknesses
• Feeling unsteady

After taking Ativan and experiencing symptoms like muscle movements, active or talkativeness, sudden changes in mood, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or suicidal thoughts and actions, you should not take it.  Some Ativan side effects can last longer than 12 months, and after stopping this medicine suddenly. Tell your doctor if you have anxiety, depression, or a problem with your memory before stopping the medication. 

Related warnings of Ativan

1. Regular Ativan use for a longer duration can cause severe side effects.
2. The Concomitant effects of taking Ativan can be sedation, and respiratory depression, among others; this is prescribed in alteration with other drugs.
3. Patients should be given a lower dose during the initiation of the drug.
4. The overuse of this medication can expose you to the risks of abuse and addiction or overdose resulting in death.
5. Overuse of the medication can be by increasing higher doses. A higher amount can have adverse effects in the future.
6. Age usually does not have any impact on the use of Ativan. Though clinical circumstances, including hepatic or renal cancer, should be considered before taking the medications
7. The sensitivity in elders is more than in individuals. Therefore, doses for individuals should be lower and lesser.
8. A breastfeeding mother can take Ativan. It has unexpected benefits, but if there is sedation or an inability to suck in infants, the lactating mother should avoid taking Ativan.

The pregnant mother should consult with the doctors if they want to continue taking this medication.

• This drug has a very high chance of withdrawal symptoms. Thus, they should always take this medication along with other alternatives.
• To reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms, use a gradual taper to discontinue Ativan. Patients with an increased risk of adverse reactions can stop rapid dosage and include higher dosage.
• There can be clinical physical dependence on the drug, wherein withdrawal can result in life-threatening seizures.
• If you have taken the medication for over 12 months, there can be protracted withdrawal syndromes. That can worsen primary depressive disorders or psychosis.

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Concluding the text

Ativan drug is used to deal with the symptoms and conditions of anxiety disorder. Though this drug is not present widely in the market, it has excellent effects. So much so that it can have withdrawal symptoms and many side effects. While taking this drug, it is essential to keep getting regular checkups and appointments with the doctors. Any carelessness while taking the medication can also cause toxicity. Thus, staying in touch with medical healthcare providers will be best. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should take care of all the symptoms and side effects.

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