Ativan, the brand name of the medication Lorazepam, is a drug that is commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders. Although this drug can be effective at reducing anxiety, it also may produce unwelcome side effects. Those interested in taking Ativan to treat anxiety should discuss the potential for side effects with a doctor before taking this medication.
Sleepiness
Some people become more tired or sleepy while taking Ativan, according to Drugs.com. This side effect can affect people differently, with some feeling only slightly drowsy during the day and others experiencing extreme fatigue. Although the Mayo Clinic indicates this may be one of the more common side effects that occurs, it still should be reported to a doctor, especially if it is severe and interferes with the ability to do daily activities.
Other Side Effects
There are many other possible side effects of Ativan, although some do not occur frequently and are less common. These include double vision, disturbed color perception, clumsiness, being forgetful, hair loss, vision changes, impulsiveness, low body temperature, muscles aches or twitching, rapid weight gain, dizziness, stupor, shivering or trembling or a weak pulse, according to the Mayo Clinic. Most of these side effects will lessen in intensity or disappear as the body adjusts to the medication, but they should be reported to a medical professional if they become severe or do not go away.
Potentially Dangerous Side Effects
Some side effects that may occur are so potentially dangerous that they need to be reported to a doctor immediately. According to the Mayo Clinic, these include stomach pain, anger, aggression, changes in urination, severe confusion, blurred vision, blood in stool or urine, bleeding gums, difficulty breathing or swallowing, fast or irregular heartbeat, dry mouth, drooling, changes in speech, fever, extreme sleepiness, breathing problems, swelling, irritability, changes in appetite, loss of consciousness, nausea, vomiting, skin rash, restlessness, sleep problems, trouble concentrating, mouth sores, unexplained bleeding or bruising, vomiting blood and suicidal thoughts. In addition, the Mayo Clinic also notes that symptoms of an overdose should be immediately reported to a doctor. These symptoms include speech changes, low blood pressure, increased sweating, trembling or muscle weakness, unusual paleness or nightmares.
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