Lorazepam treats anxiety caused by depression and anxiety disorders. It is a bendodiazepine, which is a type of drug that balances the anxiety-causing chemicals in the brain. While this drug can effectively treat anxiety, there are some side effects of lorazepam that may make alternative drugs necessary.
Minor Side Effects
While the minor side effects of lorazepam may be bothersome, they are usually not harmful. According to Drugs.com, these side effects include drowsiness, fatigue, blurred vision, dizziness, insomnia, lack of balance, muscle weakness, lack of coordination, forgetfulness, difficulty concentration, skin rash and appetite changes. If these symptoms persist, report them to a medical professional to determine if a smaller dosage of lorazepam is needed.
Serious Side Effects
Lorazepam can cause serious side effects that impair nervous system function and cause psychiatric changes. These serious side effects include hostility, confusion, suicidal thoughts, hyperactivity, agitation, lightheadedness, fainting and hallucinations. Seek immediate medical attention if any of these serious side effects occur. It may be necessary to stop using lorazepam and begin taking a different anti-anxiety medication if these serious side effects occur.
Allergic Reaction
Anyone with a sensitivity to lorazepam or any of the ingredients found in a lorazepam pill may experience an allergic reaction to this drug. Seek emergency treatment if you experience hives, rash, itching, difficulty breathing or swelling of the tongue, throat, lips and face. Do not take this drug if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a benzodiazepine, as this can increase the risk of having an allergic reaction to lorazepam.
Drug Interactions
Lorazepam drug interactions are possible if the drug is taken in combination with other drugs. Do not take this drug with barbiturates such as butabarbital, secobarbital or mephobarbital. MAO inhibitors such as tranylcypromine and selegiline should be avoided while taking this drug. Serious interactions can occur if lorazepam is taken with narcotic drugs such as methadone, morphine, oxycodone, hydrocodone and codeine. Avoid taking antidepressants while taking lorazepam.
Overdose
Lorazepam overdose can occur if more than the prescribed amount of the drug is taken. Signs of overdose include slow heartbeat, sleepiness, dizziness, confusion, difficulty breathing, unconsciousness and slow heartbeat. Call a poison control center or seek emergency medical treatment if an overdose occurs. If an overdose is severe, it can lead to seizures, cardiac arrest and other serious consequences, so immediate treatment can make the difference between life and death.
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