Ativan® (lorazepam) is a drug that is approved to treat anxiety. It belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines. The drug is thought to work in the brain by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) -- a brain chemical that is naturally calming. Ativan comes in tablet, oral liquid, and injectable forms.
Some common side effects of Ativan include weakness, unsteadiness, and dizziness. A few of the conditions that you should tell your healthcare provider about before you take Ativan include glaucoma, depression, liver disease (including liver failure or cirrhosis), and any allergies you may have (including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives).
(For more information, click Ativan. This article takes a closer look at how Ativan works to treat anxiety and offers tips on when and how to take the medication.)