Ativan (Lorazepam)

Ativan is an anti-anxiety drug of the benzodiazepine class, prescribed primarily for anxiety and intravenously as a sedative prior to surgery. It is also unique amongst benzodiazepines for being useful in treating the nausea that accompanies chemotherapy.Annals of Oncology: ESMO Minimum Clinical Recommendations for prophylaxis of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting PDF Ativan also is unique for having a relatively high potential for addiction.PubMed: [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7439058 Benzodiazepine dependence

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Due to the sedative effect it has, Ativan is used in cases of acute anxiety and acute insomnia, allowing relaxation during waking hours and comfortable sleep during resting hours. Catatonia is sometimes treated with lorazepam, especially catatonia caused by benzodiazepine withdrawals. Lorazepam has another unique property -- being extremely insoluble in water and oils -- which allows it to travel the bloodstream longer than diazepam or other benzodiazepines. (For example, diazepam's anticonvulsant properties wear off within 30 minutes, but lorazepam's effect lasts up to 24 hours.)BCNC: Benzodiazepine Equivalency Table, BCNC: Benzodiazepine Equivalency Table

Disclaimer: The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before taking Ativan (Lorazepam).