Precautions
Ativan is both a sedative that reduces anxiety and a hypnotic that produces drowsiness. After administration of this medication, activities requiring motor coordination should be avoided, such as driving, operating heavy machinery, or climbing.
In doses greater than the recommended dose, Ativan can cause excessive sedation and partial airway obstruction.
During IV administration, the monitoring of respiratory and cardiac function is required. For individuals experiencing hepatic (liver) and renal (kidney) failure, this drug is not recommended as it is metabolized by the liver.
Do not consume grapefruit or products containing grapefruit as they may increase the plasma concentration of benzodiazepines.