How to Take Ativan: Side Effects, Dosage
Learn Ativan (lorazepam) use as directed: dosing guidelines, common side effects, precautions and when to seek help.
Not medical advice. Speak with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
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Updated Feb, 15
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Information sourced from FDA-approved prescribing information and peer-reviewed medical references.
How to Take Ativan
How to Take Ativan (lorazepam)
The following information reflects FDA-approved prescribing information for Ativan (lorazepam). Always follow your prescriber's specific instructions:
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, follow your prescriber's exact dose and schedule. Ativan is taken by mouth with a glass of water. You may take it with or without food.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, typical adult dosing for anxiety: 0.5 mg to 2 mg per dose, usually taken 2 to 3 times per day. Most people start at the lower end and adjust only if their clinician directs them.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, for short-term insomnia: A single bedtime dose of about 1 mg to 2 mg is commonly used when prescribed.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, if you are older (65+): Start low, often 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg per dose, because the medication can have stronger effects in this age group.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, swallow tablets whole. If you were given the sublingual (under-the-tongue) form, let it dissolve without chewing.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, take it only for the duration recommended. Ativan is generally intended for short-term use unless your clinician has a specific plan.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, if you miss a dose: Take it when you remember unless it is close to your next dose. If so, skip the missed dose. Do not double up.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, do not stop suddenly if you have been taking it regularly for more than a few days. Your doctor will guide a gradual dose reduction if needed.
If anything about your dosing feels unclear, contact your prescribing clinician or pharmacist for guidance.
Warnings Before Taking Ativan
Per FDA boxed warning, concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids, alcohol, or other CNS depressants may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Avoid alcohol or other sedatives while taking Ativan unless specifically directed by your prescriber.
Per FDA boxed warning, use of benzodiazepines can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal reactions. Do not stop taking Ativan abruptly without guidance from your prescriber.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, tell your doctor about breathing problems, sleep apnea, or liver disease.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, share if you've had substance-use concerns or take meds that cause sedation.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, lorazepam may cause fetal harm. Not recommended in pregnancy or while nursing unless specifically advised by your clinician.
Ativan Side Effects
Common
Moderate
Drowsiness
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, drowsiness is the most common reported effect of Ativan. You may feel unusually sleepy or sluggish, especially after a dose. Per FDA-approved prescribing information, avoid driving or tasks needing full alertness until you know how it affects you.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
4–8 hours
Common
Moderate
Dizziness
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, Ativan can cause lightheadedness or unsteadiness. Standing up slowly may help reduce this effect.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
2–6 hours
Common
Mild
Fatigue
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, some people notice a general sense of tiredness or low energy while taking lorazepam.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
4–8 hours
Common
Mild
Memory or Concentration Changes
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, Ativan may cause mild short-term forgetfulness or slower thinking. Contact your prescriber if these effects are persistent or concerning.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
4–6 hours
Common
Mild
Weakness
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, you might feel mild muscle weakness or reduced physical strength while taking lorazepam.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
3–6 hours
Uncommon
Mild
Blurry Vision
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, some people experience temporarily blurred or unfocused vision. Take extra care with activities requiring clear sight and contact your prescriber if this persists.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
1–3 hours
Contact Us for a Personalized Care Plan
Have questions about compounding? Contact Voshell's Pharmacy — we prepare patient-specific medications pursuant to valid prescriptions from your licensed prescriber.
What If You Forgot to Take Ativan
What If You Forgot to Take Ativan?
If you miss a dose of Ativan, take it as soon as you remember, as long as it's still reasonably close to your usual time. If you're already near the time for your next dose, skip the forgotten dose and return to your regular schedule.
Do not double up to make up for a missed dose — that can lead to excessive drowsiness or unsteadiness.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, doses should be taken at the intervals directed by your prescriber. If you're missing doses often or unsure what to do, a call to your prescribing clinician can help you find a plan that works.
What If You Took Too Much Ativan
What If You Took Too Much Ativan (Accidentally)?
If more than the prescribed amount was taken, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away or seek emergency medical care immediately.
- Do not take additional doses until you have spoken with Poison Control or your prescriber.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, benzodiazepine overdose risks include respiratory depression, extreme sedation, and coma. If symptoms such as difficulty breathing, extreme sedation, or loss of consciousness occur, call 911 or seek emergency medical care immediately.
- Keep this and all medications out of reach of children.
How Much Does Ativan Cost
How Much Does Ativan Cost With Insurance?
With many U.S. insurance plans, the out-of-pocket cost for lorazepam (the generic formulation) varies. Because it's a commonly available generic medication, many plans may place it in a low copay tier.
- Lorazepam (generic): many plans place it in a lower copay tier.
- Brand-name Ativan: Coverage varies widely and may require prior authorization.
- High-deductible plans: If your deductible isn't met, you may pay more until coverage kicks in.
Your exact cost depends on your specific insurance plan, pharmacy, and dosage.
Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, location, and insurance plan and may have changed since this page was written. Contact your pharmacy or insurance provider for current pricing.
How Much Does Ativan Cost without Insurance
How Much Does Ativan Cost Without Insurance?
The price can vary widely depending on the pharmacy, dose, and quantity. In most areas of the U.S., lorazepam (the active ingredient in Ativan) is the most affordable option without insurance.
- Lorazepam (generic, common strengths 0.5 mg–2 mg): available at many pharmacies.
- Brand-name Ativan: often considerably more expensive than the generic formulation.
Prices can sometimes drop further with pharmacy discount programs or coupons.
Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, location, and insurance plan and may have changed since this page was written. Contact your pharmacy or insurance provider for current pricing.
