Lorazepam

How is Lorazepam dosed?

For anxiety:

• Adults and children 12 years of age and older: 2 to 4 milligrams (mg) taken as a single dose at bedtime. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed.
• Children younger than 12 years of age: Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

For extended-release capsules: For anxiety:

• Adults: One capsule once a day in the morning. Dose is based on the total daily dose of lorazepam tablets, which you take three times a day in equally divided doses. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed.
• Children: Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Remember, always follow your doctor's instructions and never exceed the recommended dosage.

What is the dosage form of Lorazepam?

Lorazepam is available in several dosage forms, including:

1. Oral solution (liquid)
2. Tablets
3. Extended-release

What medications are contraindication with Lorazepam?

Some medications that may interact with lorazepam include:

1. Alcohol or tobacco
2. Certain antifungal medications (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole)
3. Certain antibiotics (e.g., rifamycins such as rifampin, erythromycin)
4. Certain anti-seizure medications (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin)
5. Certain HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, atazanavir)
6. Certain antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline)
7. St. John's Wort
8. Theophylline
9. Valproic acid

It is essential to inform your doctor about all medications, herbal supplements, or other alternative treatments you are using to avoid potentially harmful interactions with lorazepam.

How is Lorazepam administered?

Lorazepam can be administered orally in several ways depending on the dosage form and the patient's age. For tablets and solutions, the medicine should be swallowed whole and not crushed, broken, or chewed. For extended-release capsules, they should also be swallowed whole, not crushed or broken. If you have trouble swallowing the extended-release capsule, you may open it and sprinkle the medicine onto a tablespoon of applesauce, stir the mixture well, and swallow it without chewing. It is important to drink water after swallowing the mixture, and it should be taken within 2 hours of mixing. For oral liquid, the medicine should be measured using the marked medicine dropper that comes with the package and diluted with water, juice, soda, applesauce, or puddings. Dosing information for lorazepam varies based on age, medical condition, and the formulation. Always follow your doctor's prescription or the instructions on the label, and consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.

What are common precautions when taking Lorazepam?

Common precautions when taking lorazepam include:

1. Following the dosage instructions provided by your doctor. Do not take more, take it more often, or take it for a longer time than prescribed.
2. Informing your doctor about any allergies or other types of allergies you may have, such as allergies to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals.
3. Letting your doctor know if you have a history of lung or breathing problems, seizures, mental problems, glaucoma, acute narrow-angle, kidney disease, liver disease, or if you are currently experiencing depression.
4. Being cautious when taking lorazepam if you are elderly, as you may be more likely to experience severe drowsiness or unsteadiness.
5. Avoiding the use of lorazepam if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, unless advised by your doctor.
6. Informing your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are currently taking, as they may interact with lorazepam.
7. Being aware of the potential side effects of lorazepam, such as drowsiness, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, and impaired coordination.
8. Contacting your doctor if you experience any unusual or allergic reactions to lorazepam, or if you notice any other side effects not listed. Remember to always store lorazepam in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light, and keep it out of reach of children.