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The Effects of Lorazapam

Lorazepam is a medication used to treat the symptoms of social anxiety, panic disorder, insomnia and the anxiety associated with depression. Drugs.com explains that lorazepam is effective in balancing the chemicals in the brain that are responsible for triggering these reactions, thus reducing nervous tension. But, like many drugs, lorazepam is not without its side effects, some of which can be quite dangerous if the medication is not taken as directed.

  1. What Is Lorazepam?

    • Lorazepam is the generic form of the brand name prescription Ativan. According to RxList.com, lorazepam is manufactured in pill form and available in milligram (mg) strengths of 0.5mg, 1mg and 2mg. The lorazepam pill is recommended to be taken by mouth (orally). Lorazepam is insoluble in water and part of the benzodiazepine family of drugs.

    Positive Effects

    • Benzodiazepines (BNZs), such as lorazepam, work in conjunction with the GABA receptors found in the brain. GABAs ( gamma-aminobutyric acids) are neurotransmitters that calm and control excitability. In some people, the brain fails to release the required amount of GABA receptors, resulting in an "over-stimulation" of the nervous system during times of stress. Teva Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients explains that lorazepam binds to GABA receptors, increasing their production and inducing sedation.

    Negative Effects

    • Like other members of the BNZ family, lorazepam has the potential to be highly addictive. In fact, an addiction to lorazepam can happen very quickly, in as little as two weeks. The addiction symptoms of lorazepam are similar to that of alcohol, since both drugs work on the same GABA receptors. According to MayoClinic.com, drugs like lorazepam that calm the central nervous system and are used in amounts that exceed the recommended dosage can cause sleepiness, slurred speech, coordination problems, confusion and depressive thoughts. Trouble remembering things, dizzy spells and low blood pressure can also occur.

    Lorazepam Dangers

    • It is common for lorazepam to cause mild symptoms such as drowsiness and a relaxed feeling. In some people, lorazepam may even cause dry mouth, loss of appetite and headache. But lorazepam can also have negative side effects that may require immediate medical attention. This is especially true in cases of overdose or improper dosing. PSYweb.com reports that an overdose of lorazepam can cause confusion, loss of consciousness, staggering, trouble breathing and convulsion. If you experience any of these symptoms after taking lorazepam call 911 quickly.

    Withdrawal Procedures

    • Never stop taking lorazepam cold turkey. In fact, an abrupt break from taking lorazepam can cause an array of symptoms that include irritability, restlessness, nervousness and extreme changes in behavior. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, patients should be weaned off of lorazepam using a tapering schedule. The withdrawal schedule will depend on the patient's daily dosage, and may sometimes include the addition of a second drug that will reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms. In most cases, the addition of a longer acting benzodiazepine will be used, such as diazepam.

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