Overview Of Lorazepam

Uses

Lorazepam is used for a wide variety of mental and physical health conditions. It is one of the most commonly prescribed medicines for patients with anxiety disorders. This medication is also widely used in the treatment of bipolar disorder and panic attacks. Some doctors prescribe it as part of a combination of drugs to treat schizophrenia. Lorazepam also helps ease the symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal. Patients with certain types of epilepsy could benefit from lorazepam as well, and it is used to stop active seizures. This medication is an effective sleep aid that can reduce the symptoms of insomnia. Finally, it reduces feelings of aggression in patients with mental health concerns.

Get familiar with the potential side effects of this medication next.

Potential Side Effects

The most commonly reported potential side effects of lorazepam include sedation, drowsiness, and a feeling of relaxation and calm. Patients have also experienced headaches, nausea, blurry vision, appetite changes, heartburn, and constipation. In certain patients, more serious side effects could occur. Examples include slurred speech, hallucinations, depression, suicidal thoughts, weakness, and memory problems. These side effects may be accompanied by coordination and walking difficulties, and the patient may also display signs of infection, such as a fever or persistent sore throat. Side effects, especially drowsiness and loss of coordination, may worsen in elderly patients and in individuals with multiple chronic health conditions. The side effects also seem to be worse in individuals who are taking multiple medications.

Rare side effects include slow or shallow breathing, seizures, and jaundice. If serious or rare side effects occur, patients should inform their doctor immediately. Emergency medical care should be obtained if the patient has a seizure, jaundice, or breathing difficulties. Patients with troubling mental health changes, such as suicidal thoughts or hallucinations, should inform their healthcare team. This allows them to check if it may be possible to switch to another medicine that does not cause these effects. Any troublesome or persistent side effects should be discussed with a doctor so the effects can be minimized.

Learn about lorazepam and allergies next.