Ativan is a product name for the drug lorazepam used for the treatment of anxiety. It is classified under a group of drugs known as benzodiazepines mainly used to create a calming effect on a patient by acting on the nervous system and the brain. Anxiety may be caused by the imbalance of certain chemicals in the brain that are affected by the use of Ativan. The drug is also used to treat other problems but only if prescribed by professional doctor.

Ativan should never be used without a proper diagnosis and prescription by a qualified doctor because the result may be fatal. It is good to consult a doctor before using Ativan because it may lead to birth defects to unborn babies when used by a pregnant patient. The drug should not be used by patients who are allergic to benzodiazepines including lorazepam. If a patient is suffering from breathing problems, liver or kidney problems, depression, alcoholism or drug abuse, he/she should inform the doctor before taking Ativan. The drug should not be shared even if the patient has the same symptoms of anxiety. Ativan is known to be habit forming and should be avoided when taking alcohol because it increases the effect of alcohol.

The purchase of Ativan via the internet or from other sources outside the United States is prohibited. Purchasing drugs from the internet puts the patient at risk of getting products that contain dangerous ingredients or that may be sold by uncertified pharmacies. It is evident that some of the drugs sold online contain dangerous ingredients such as haloperidol which has very dangerous side effects. A patient can contact the U.S Food and Drug Administration for more information about drugs sale.

Ativan should be taken exactly as prescribed by a professional doctor to avoid dangerous side effects. The drug should also not be taken for a longer time than prescribed by the doctor. It advisable to use the prescribed dosage though the doctor may change the prescription if need be. Ativan is supposed to be taken for only a short time and hence should not exceed four months.

The use of Ativan should not be stopped suddenly without the consultation of a doctor. The drug has serious withdrawal symptoms. A patient is supposed to stop using Ativan gradually to avoid the withdrawal symptoms. Some of the symptoms include hallucinations, nausea, loss of appetite and insomnia among others. The patient should report any of the above symptoms to a doctor for immediate treatment. It is also advisable for a patient to have regular check ups by the doctor to avoid potential harmful effects on the patient.

Ativan is stored at room temperature and away from children. The drug is known to be addictive and can easily be abused. It is good to keep watch of the consumption of the drug to know whether someone is abusing it if the patient does not live alone.

Ativan should not be taken in excess and any overdose should be reported to the physician immediately as it might result to death. Some of the symptoms of overdose are confusion, fainting, coma and extreme drowsiness.