Lorazepam is a drug which is marketed under a lot of different names, most commonly in North America it is sold as Ativan. Lorazepam comes from a group of drugs known as benzodiazepines, of which Xanax, Valium and Lithium all belong to as well. Lorazepam corrects chemical imbalances in the brain and is used to treat anxiety disorders as well as anxiety related insomnia. However, this would require anxiety to be caused by a chemical imbalance in order for Lorazepam to effectively treat it, and unfortunately Lorazepam is most likely very over prescribed. People with general anxiety disorders, or GADs, tend to find Lorazepam much more beneficial than those who suffer from anxiety attacks or phobias.
Like most benzodiazepines, Lorazepam produces an almost immediate sensation of calm and euphoria. Even though this offers relief of anxiety, Lorazepam is generally only prescribed for short periods of time because of its addictive qualities. Many people who begin using Lorazepam for anxiety continue using it recreationally. In the same way, many people become dependent on Lorazepam to deal with anxiety or get to sleep, and these problems can become much worse than they were originally after one discontinues long term use of Lorazepam. Additionally, despite the fact that Lorazepam has strong sedative qualities, it ceases to be effective in some patients after a week or two of use, and rebounds of anxiety and insomnia occur.
Lorazepam can have negative effects on the kidney and liver, and should not be taken by any person with a condition of either. It is also advisable to have your kidney and liver function checked while taking Lorazepam, especially in cases of long term use. Lorazepam should not be taken by anyone with a history of severe depression, and like many other drugs should not be taken by pregnant or nursing mothers. Because of its addictive effects it is not recommended for anyone with a history of drug or alcohol addiction. Of course, do not try to determine the appropriate dose of Lorazepam for yourself, do not double your dose if you miss one; an overdose of Lorazepam can be fatal.
The most common side effects of Lorazepam are nausea, changes in appetite, skin rash and things of a mild nature such as these. However, occasionally Lorazepam use results in blurred vision, hallucinations, memory loss, fainting and personality changes such as hyperactivity, irritability and hostility.
For some people who are suffering from serious and legitimate chemical imbalances the use of Lorazepam is necessary. For many others who are suffering short term, mild to moderate anxiety and insomnia there are many other things that should be considered before the use of Lorazepam or any other prescription drugs. Self relaxation techniques, aroma therapy, cognitive therapy and herbal supplements can be much more effective than many people give them credit for. Simple changes in lifestyle can also be quite beneficial for anxiety and insomnia such as changing your diet, exercising and cutting down or quitting smoking, drinking caffeine, alcohol and use of any other recreational drugs.
Ativan is a trademark of Biovail Laboratories Ltd. and controlled by Baxter Healthcare Corporation.