Lorazepam is used in the treatment of anxiety. It is also applied in the treatment of the irritable bowel syndrome, epilepsy, insomnia, nausea and vomiting due to cancer treatment and may help control agitation caused by abstinence from alcohol.
What is Lorazepam?
Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine. It works by reducing abnormal brain activity.
How should Lorazepam be taken?
Lorazepam is commercially available for oral use generally in the form of tablets or drops to be taken 2 to 3 times a day.
Side effects associated with Lorazepam
The possible adverse effects of lorazepam may include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Appetite changes
- Restlessness
- Constipation
- Difficult or frequent urination
- Vision problems
- Changes in the sexual desire
You should immediately contact a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent tremor or inability to sit still
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Severe rash
- Jaundice
- Irregular heartbeat
- Shuffling gait
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Lorazepam
Lorazepam has been known to cause dependence. Therefore, it is important not to exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor. In addition, the drug should not be taken for more than four consecutive months and its intake should not be stopped without consulting with the doctor.
Lorazepam may impair the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery. Its adverse effects can also be worsened by alcohol. In addition, tobacco and smoking may reduce its effectiveness.
Furthermore, prior to taking the drug it is important to tell your doctor if:
You have allergies to the active substance or other drugs, particularly alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, clonazepam, clorazepate, diazepam, estazolam, flurazepam, oxazepam, prazepam, temazepam or triazolam
You are taking other medications, herbal remedies and supplements, especially antihistamines, digoxin, levodopa, and drugs against depression, seizures, pain, Parkinson's diease, asthma, colds or allergies, muscle relaxants, oral contraceptives, probenecid, rifampin, sedatives, sleeping drugs, theophylline, tranquilizers and valproic acid
You are suffering (or have suffered) from glaucoma, seizures, or lung, heart or liver disease
You are pregnant or breastfeeding
It is also recommended to inform surgeons and dentists about ongoing treatments with Lorazepam before undergoing any surgical intervention.
