STUDENT NAME:
MEDICATION GENERIC: lorazepam TRADE: Ativan
PHARMACOLOGIC CLASS: Anxiolytic; sedative-hypnotic; benzodiazepine
ACTIVE LEARNING TEMPLATE: Medication
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PURPOSE OF MEDICATION
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Effects (anti anxiety, sedative, hypnotic, and skeletal
muscle relaxant) are mediated by the inhibitory
neurotransmitter GABA. Action sites are thalamic,
hypothalamic, and limbic levels of CNS.
Management of anxiety disorders and for short-term
relief of symptoms of anxiety. Also used for
preanesthetic medication to produce sedation and to
reduce anxiety and recall of events related to day of
surgery.
Known sensitivity to benzodiazepines; acute narrow-angle glaucoma; primary
depressive disorders or psychosis; COPD; coma, shock, sleep apnea; acute alcohol
intoxication; dementia; intraarterial administration; respiratory depression;
pregnancy, and lactation. Caution in patients with renal or hepatic impairment,
renal failure, organic brain syndrome, myasthenia Travis, pulmonary disease,
suicidal tendency, GI disorders, and children younger than 12.
Adult: PO – 2-3 mg/day in divided doses
IM – 0.05 mg/kg
IV – 4mg injected slowly at 2mg/min
Geriatric: PO – 1-2 mg/day
Injection site irritation, drowsiness, sedation, dizziness, weakness,
disorientation, depression, sleep disturbance, confusion,
hallucinations, blurred vision, N/V, abdominal discomfort, anorexia
Alcohol; CNS depressants; anticonvulsants; cimetidine increases
plasma levels (increases toxicity); may increase phenytoin levels;
smoking decreases sedative and anti anxiety effects
Monitor VS, CNS status, and ability to void following administration.
Supervise ambulatory of older adult patients for at least 8 hours to
prevent falling or injury. Supervise patients who exhibit depression
with anxiety closely (possibility of suicide). Monitor lab tests: CBC
and LFT’s with long-term therapy.
Onset: 1-5 min IV; 15-30 min IM.
Peak: 60-90 min IM; 2 hours PO
Duration: 12-24 hours
Do not drive for at least 24-48 hours after
administration. Do not consume alcohol for
at least 24-48 hours after administration.
Notify prescriber if daytime psychomotor
function is impaired. Terminate regimen
gradually over a period of several days.
CONTRAINDICATIONS & PRECAUTIONS:
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THERAPEUTIC CLASS & USE:
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ADVERSE EFFECTS:
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PATIENT EDUCATION:
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