Published on 20 July 2022

Ativan For Seizures: Efficacy In Prevention

Lorazepam (ativan) ativan-for-prevention-of-seizures
Table of Contents

A seizure is a premature, disorderly electrical disorder in the brain. It can cause shifts in your behavior, activities or emotions, and grades of consciousness. It is more common in young children and older people.

Seizures come in a variety of forms, with varying symptoms and intensity. There are various Seizures, such as Childhood absence epilepsy, Myoclonic seizures, Tonic and Atonic Seizures, and Clonic Seizures. 

Around 1 out of 100 individuals in the U.S. has had an unprovoked seizure or has been diagnosed with epilepsy. Various medications are available to wear off the disorder within a few hours. Know about Ativan helping in preventing seizure disorder.

What is Ativan?

Ativan is a fast-working drug for anxietyIt is the trademark name for the drug Lorazepam. Ativan is a medication authorized by the Food and Drug Administration to treat all types of seizures, including myoclonic, absence, partial seizures, atonic (drop attacks), and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Some USA-approved pharmacies provide you ativan prescription online.

This drug is used to treat Tension. Ativan belongs to a class of drugs comprehended as benzodiazepines which operate on the brain and CNS (central nervous system) to have a soothing effect. This drug enhances the results of a particular natural chemical in the body (GABA).

How Does Ativan Work?

Ativan secures benzodiazepine receptors on the postsynaptic GABA-A ligand-gated medium neuron at several locations within the (CNS), i.e., the central nervous system. It improves the inhibitory consequences of GABA, which enhances the conductance of chloride ions in the cell.

This change in chloride ions results in hyperpolarization and stabilization of the cellular plasma membrane. Its inhibitory activity in the amygdala is useful in Anxiety disorders, while its inhibitory activity in the cerebral cortex is beneficial in seizure disorders.

Frequently asked questions

If you forget to take medicine, do not consume 2 dosages at a time; instead, consume the next dosage.
Yes, you might be affected by severe allergic reactions in rare cases. You should consult the doctor for the cure.
To be safe from side effects, you should follow the precautions told by the doctor and understand the medicine’s intake.

Ativan For Seizures

Ativan acts fast in the brain to control seizure outbreaks. It usually takes 15 to 30 minutes to start working. It is used by putting it under the tongue or between the cheek and the gum. It is observed that this way, any medicine shows high effectiveness. 

Ativan tends to last longer and help seizures over a more extended period. The majority of people who treat convulsive seizures use Ativan.

Study:

Alcohol is one of the most common reasons for a person to suffer from seizures. A clinical trial was conducted wherein people suffering from alcohol seizures were selected and given Lorazepam. A total of 229 people were used in observations. The research was concluded after the results, such as people who suffered from seizures because of alcohol, showed a reduction in the rehappening of the conditions. It was a successful drug compared to a placebo.

Dosages Of Ativan

Dosages are the main thing when treating a condition. You cannot take more or less than the prescribed dose from the doctor. As the condition is not simple, you should follow the doctor’s advice and take the medication after reading the medicine leaflet.

Adults:

  • Initial Dose: 2 to 3 mg/day
  • Continuation dose: 2 to 6 mg/day
  • Max Dose: 10 mg/day PO.  

Geriatric Adults:

  • Initial Dose: 1 to 2 mg/day PO
  • Continuation dose: 2 to 6 mg/day 
  • Max dose: 10 mg/day PO.  

Children and Adolescents 12 years and older:

  • Initial Dose: 2 to 3 mg/day PO
  • Continuation dose: 2 to 6 mg/day
  • Max dose: 1 to 10 mg/day PO.

To discontinue, gradually taper the dose.
Children 11 years or younger-

Dosage is not available for anxiety disorders.
If needed- 0.025 to 0.05 mg/kg/dose PO.

Is Ativan Addictive?

There is a high chance of Ativan leading to dependency on the drug and withdrawal symptoms. It makes it difficult for individuals with substance use disorder. It can also cause withdrawal symptoms, so do not stop the medication consumption abruptly. Get detailed information for lowering your medicine dose from the general practitioner. 

Being addicted to Ativan can lead to various issues such as social withdrawal, lack of motivation in school or work, engaging in risky behaviors, isolation, and financial problems.

You might be affected by Ativan’s withdrawal symptoms if you stop abruptly. The symptoms can include Sweating, Headache, Anxiety, Insomnia, Irritability, Seizure, Muscle spasms, and Increased heart rate.

Possible Side Effects

Following are the side effects after the use of Ativan. There might be severe consequences. Ativan mixed with alcohol has serious consequences. So always be extra sure after the impact and get help. 

Common Side Effects

Severe Side Effects

Drowsiness

Shuffling trek

Dizziness

Inability to sit still

Tiredness

Fever

Weakness

Severe skin rash

Dry mouth

Yellowing of skin or eyes

Lowers blood pressure

Irregular heartbeat.

Never ignore such side effects on medicines because they can cause severe issues in your mental health. You should take emergency help when you sense any of these symptoms.

Precautions Of Ativan

Since Ativan is a long-acting drug, You should follow preventive measures. This will help you not get affected by the side effects. You can also be safe if you are going through any conditions and prevent severe effects. As the medicine can remain in the body for an extended period, consume the drug with caution. 

  • Combining Ativan with alcohol can have dangerous effects, including extreme drowsiness, breathing difficulties, and coma.
  • If breastfeeding, remember that Ativan can pass into breast milk and affect your baby. 
  • If you are about to get pregnant or are already pregnant, talk to your doctor first.
  • Avoid taking Ativan if you are experiencing depression or suicidal thoughts.
  •  If you are an older adult, special precautions may be necessary.

Above mentioned are not the complete list of preventive measures. Talk to your doctor about all the medical history you have been through. It would be best to be informed about the medicines you have been consuming for any other condition. This will help you through unwanted health issues.

Bottom Line From Practical Anxiety Solutions

Ativan‘s primary indication is to treat anxiety. However, it is approved by the FDA as a rescue medicine for prolonged seizures. Ativan is often used in medical care to treat a prolonged seizure that would not stop on its own. 

The medicine can cause several side effects, which might be more prolonged in children. It also has an associated risk of abuse, addiction, and misuse, leading to overdose or death. Talk to your healthcare provider about the signs and symptoms of Ativan addiction.

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