Ativan
Generic name: Lorazepam
WHY IT'S PRESCRIBED
To treat anxiety and insomnia. Administered in a hospital setting, the injection form of lorazepam is used to treat a type of seizure disorder (status epilepticus) and is given before surgery to sedate patients prior to the administration of anesthesia.
HOW IT WORKS
Lorazepam produces mild sedation by depressing activity in the central nervous system. In particular, the drug appears to enhance the effect of gamma-aminobutyric (GABA), a natural chemical that inhibits the firing of neurons and dampens the the transmission of nerve signals, decreasing nervous excitation.
ONSET OF EFFECT
30 minutes to 2 hours for oral forms.
COMMON SIDE EFFECTS
Drowsiness, loss of coordination, unsteady gait, dizziness, lightheadness, slurred speech.
Available in:
Oral solution, tablets, injection
Drug class:
Benzodiazepine tranquilizer; antianxiety agent
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