Posted by paxvox on April 7, 2003, at 14:52:44
In reply to What is Lorazipam? (nm), posted by Napaba on April 7, 2003, at 8:23:42
Lorazepam (Ativan) is a benzo generally used as an antianxiety medication (anxiolytic). It is generally only prescribed for short durations (unless you actually have a *real* physician) at dosing ranging fron 2-6mg per day in divided doses. Also used safely and LONGTERM as a sleep aid (for chronic insomnia) as a 2-4mg single dose.
Lorazepam CAN be "addictive" IF taken for long periods of times, or if the patient increases the dose w/o permission (aka self-medicating). The term "tolerance", however, is a more accurate word for the condition of physical dependence. Like any benzo, one should not stop taking this drug abruptly, especially if it has been used for a period of over several weeks daily. This is ESPECIALLY true if you take meds (like Wellbutrin) that may lower your seizure threshold.
Personally, I was able to take it for about a year, and then discontinue it gradually over a two-week period. I have done that with about 5 different benzos over the past 15 years. I am currently taking a farily weak benzo, Tranzene, which I have been using at the same dose for almost 3 years now. Hope that helps.PAX
poster:paxvox
thread:13781
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030407/msgs/217058.html