When a patient overdoses on Ativan®, a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders, he or she will exhibit serious symptoms such as falling into a coma, having difficulty breathing or feeling extreme drowsiness. In addition, he or she might also exhibit confusion, slow reflexes and clumsiness. Other signs of an Ativan® overdose include low blood pressure, loss of consciousness and muscle weakness.
Ativan®: does come with its share of normal side effects. When some of these side effects are severe, they might indicate an Ativan® overdose. For example, drowsiness is a common and less serious side effect, but if it is exhibited in an excessive amount, it might be a sign of an Ativan® overdose. Other side effects are considered serious from the start and should receive immediate medical attention. This includes an allergic reaction, which could cause a person to have difficulty breathing.
Signs of an Ativan® overdose will vary from person to person because there can be factors that contribute to each unique situation. For example, the use of drugs can have an effect on an overdose. When Ativan® is taken in combination with other medications or alcohol, an overdose is more likely to become life-threatening. It is important that a patient seek medical attention immediately if he or she suspects an overdose because it can lead to death.
To prevent an overdose, a patient should follow prescription instructions exactly as directed by a doctor. He or she should not take more than has been prescribed. In general, a missed dose can be replaced with another one as soon as possible, but if it is almost time to take the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped.
Other safety precautions to take when using Ativan® include keeping it out of the hands of others. Benzodiazepines are abused drugs and a person who has not been prescribed the medication should not use it. In addition, medical conditions or medications might interact with Ativan®. It is important that a patient disclose his or her medical history before taking the medication. Also, when taking Ativan®, a patient should know that alcohol can increase side effects while tobacco products can decrease the medication’s effectiveness.
It is possible to combat an overdose if the patient receives immediate medical attention. The drug can be eliminated from the body through a variety of methods. This includes “pumping” the stomach, dialysis and the use of other drugs such as flumazenil, a medication that works as an antidote for benzodiazepine.
