Before using lorazepam :

Tell your health care provider if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

• If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding

• If you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement

• If you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances

• If you are taking any other medicine that causes drowsiness (eg, narcotics, some antidepressants)

• If you have impaired lung function, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), muscle weakness or fatigue, glaucoma, liver problems, blood disorders, depression, or suicidal thoughts

• If you have a history of drug abuse or dependence

How to use lorazepam :

Use lorazepam as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions. Take lorazepam by mouth with or without food.

If you use lorazepam regularly and you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised to by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Important safety information:

Do not drink alcohol or use medicines that may cause drowsiness (eg, sleep aids, muscle relaxers) while you are using lorazepam without first checking with your doctor.

Lorazepam may be habit forming if you take lorazepam in high doses or for a long time. Do NOT take more than the recommended dose or use for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor.

Use lorazepam with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects.

Pregnancy and Breast-feeding:

Lorazepam has been shown to cause harm to the fetus. Do not become pregnant while you are using it. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using lorazepam while you are pregnant. lorazepam is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking lorazepam .

Some people who use lorazepam for a long time may develop a need to continue taking it. People who take high doses are also at risk. This is known as DEPENDENCE or addiction.

If you stop taking lorazepam suddenly, you may have WITHDRAWAL symptoms. These may include agitation, anxiety, irritability, occasional seizures, or sleeplessness may occur if lorazepam is suddenly stopped. If you need to stop lorazepam , your doctor will lower your dose over time.


Possible side effects of lorazepam :

Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

Clumsiness; dizziness; drowsiness; headache; lightheadedness; unsteadiness; weakness.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); memory loss.

Proper storage of lorazepam :

Store lorazepam at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep lorazepam out of the reach of children and away from pets.