Chemo Drugs

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Ativan (Lorazepam)

What Does It Look Like?

Clear liquid or tablet

How Is It Given?

• Oral (by mouth)
• Intravenous (vein)

Why Am I Taking It?

This medication is used to relieve nervousness and tension or improve sleep disturbances. It may also be used to relieve symptoms of alcohol withdrawal such as tremors. This drug is often used in combination with anti-nausea drugs to control nausea and vomiting.

What Side Effects May Occur?

This medication causes drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid tasks requiring alertness. Other side effects may include stomach upset, blurred vision, headache, confusion, depression, impaired coordination, rapid heart rate, trembling, weakness, memory loss, hangover effect (grogginess), dreaming or nightmares. Notify your doctor if you develop chest pain, rapid heart rate, vision changes, or yellowing of the eyes or skin.

How Do I Take This Medication?

Take with food or milk if stomach upset occurs. Take exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take more often than prescribed. Tolerance may develop to this medication making it less effective with prolonged use.

For insomnia, take 30 to 60 minutes prior to bedtime.

Do not stop taking this medication without your doctor's approval. Your dose may have to be gradually decreased if you have been taking it for some time.

What If I Miss A Dose?

If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose. Do not "double-up" the doses. If taking for seizures, take dose if remembered within 1 hour of the missed dose but do not take if remembered after 1 hour has elapsed.

Storage:

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.