Lorazepam (Injection)

Introduction

Lorazepam (lor-A-ze-pam)

Treats anxiety and is sometimes used to treat or prevent nausea and vomiting. Belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines.

Brand Name(s)

Ativan

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to lorazepam.

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given.
• An IM injection is a shot given in your muscle (upper arm, thigh, buttocks). An IV injection is medicine that is put directly into your body through one of your veins.
• This medicine should be given by a person trained to give IV or IM medicine. Sometimes you, someone in your family, or a friend can be taught to give your medicine.

If a dose is missed:

• If you take this medicine regularly, take the missed dose as soon as possible.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

• Store in a refrigerator, away from light. Do not freeze.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also taking cimetidine (Tagamet®), phenobarbital, antidepressants, an MAO inhibitor (such as Nardil®, Parnate®, or Marplan®), a phenothiazine (such as Mellaril®, Thorazine®, or Stelazine®), or medicines that make you sleepy such as antihistamines, sleeping pills, or narcotic pain-killers.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Make sure your doctor knows if you have myasthenia gravis, liver disease, lung disease, or glaucoma.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• This medicine may make you sleepy. Avoid driving a car or using machinery.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Trouble breathing
• Severe muscle weakness or trouble standing
• Slurred speech or severe drowsiness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Irritability or agitation
• Trouble concentrating or memory loss
• "Hangover" effects
• Drowsiness, dizziness, clumsiness
• Blurred vision
• Pain where the injection was given