Ativan and Alcohol, Ativan alcohol interaction, what is Ativan, Ativan side effects.
Ativan generic name lorazepam is commonly used for treatment of anxiety disorders and may be used for other purposes. It belongs to a family of drugs known as benzodiazepines and it affects the chemistry of the brain that causes it to become unbalanced and result in anxiety.
Do not drink alcohol while using Ativan as the side effects will be greatly increased.
At this time the medical community defines moderate consumption of alcohol as no more than two drinks per day and no more than 14 drinks per week. Anything more than that is considered an unhealthy dependency on alcohol that may have adverse social, family and health consequences.
If a person drinks only once or twice a week but drinks on the same days each week and more than two drinks this is considered as an alcohol dependency.
If a person binge drinks at any time during the week this is also considered as alcoholism.
Some consider alcoholism as a disease while others consider it an addiction which is the result of personal choice and character fault. This school of thought blames the alcoholism on life style choices.
Personally I consider alcoholism a genetic tendency as I have seen families of alcoholics even when they live far apart. These unfortunate people are probably dependent on alcohol from the first drink.
When alcohol interacts with prescription over the counter drugs it usually results in negative health effects most especially liver damage as the main organ affected.
It is suggested that before taking this or any other drug you have a frank and honest discussion with your physician as to your drinking habits. This may be difficult as many alcoholics are in a state of denial as to their drinking habits.
I have also noticed that many alcoholics are not subject to the morning after illness that most of us suffer through when we drink too much. Severe alcoholics usually find if they feel “shakey” in the morning, a drink will make them feel more normal.
Ativan should not be used if you are pregnant as birth defects in the baby can occur.
Do not use if you are allergic to Ativan or have an addictive type personality.
Before starting the drug ensure your physician is aware if you have glaucoma, asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, breathing problems, kidney disease, liver disease, history of depression, suicidal thoughts or behavior or a history of drug or alcohol addiction.
Side Effects
Less serious side effects of Ativan and alcohol are drowsiness, dizziness, tiredness, blurred vision, sleep problems, muscle weakness, lack of balance or coordination, amnesia, forgetfulness, trouble concentrating, nausea, vomiting, constipation, appetite changes or skin rash. If these occur call your physician for advice.
Serious side effects of Ativan and alcohol are confusion, depressed mood, suicidal thoughts, hyperactivity, agitation, hostility, hallucinations, lightheadedness or fainting.If these occur get emergency medical help.
This site serves as an information source only and does not dispense medical advice or any other kind of advice. If you are seeking medical advice you are advised to consult your own physician.
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