Ativan Tablet Side Effects in Pakistan

A complete guide to the side effects of Ativan Tablet. From common effects to serious warnings about dependence and withdrawal — everything you need to know is on this page.

Compiled by the PakVita Editorial Team · AI-assisted drafting with editorial review · Sourced from DRAP, WHO, BNF · Last updated: 2026-07-02

Side Effects

Quick Answer

Common side effects of Ativan Tablet include drowsiness and dizziness. Serious effects such as severe breathing difficulty or signs of withdrawal require immediate medical attention. Most patients tolerate Ativan Tablet well at the correct, doctor-supervised dose. Contact your doctor if any side effect persists or worsens.

Side Effects at a Glance

Common

Drowsiness
Dizziness
Weakness

Serious — See a Doctor

Severe breathing difficulty or slowed breathing
Extreme sedation or unresponsiveness
Signs of physical dependence or withdrawal (tremors, seizures, agitation)

When to See a Doctor Immediately

Slow, shallow, or difficult breathing, especially after alcohol or other sedatives
Extreme drowsiness or difficulty waking up
Symptoms of withdrawal, such as tremors, severe anxiety, or seizures after reducing or stopping the dose
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing
Any suspected overdose

Ativan Tablet Side Effects (Nuksanat)

Ativan Tablet (Lorazepam) is generally well tolerated when taken at the correct, doctor-supervised dose. However, like all medicines — and especially controlled substances — it can cause side effects, including risks around dependence.

Common Side Effects (Aam Nuksanat)

Drowsiness
Dizziness
Weakness

These side effects are usually mild. If they continue, inform your doctor.

Serious Side Effects (Sanjeedah Nuksanat)

Severe breathing difficulty or slowed breathing — see a doctor immediately
Extreme sedation or unresponsiveness — see a doctor immediately
Signs of physical dependence or withdrawal, such as tremors, seizures, or agitation — see a doctor immediately

When to See a Doctor (Kab Doctor Se Milna Zaroori Hai)

Slow, shallow, or difficult breathing, especially after alcohol or other sedatives
Extreme drowsiness or difficulty waking up
Symptoms of withdrawal, such as tremors, severe anxiety, or seizures after reducing or stopping the dose
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing

Dependence and Withdrawal Warning

Ativan Tablet is a DRAP-scheduled benzodiazepine. Regular or prolonged use can lead to tolerance, meaning higher doses may seem needed for the same effect, and physical dependence. Never increase your dose on your own, and never stop taking Ativan Tablet suddenly after regular use — abrupt discontinuation can trigger withdrawal symptoms, including seizures. Any dose reduction must be tapered gradually under a doctor's supervision.

Warnings and Precautions (Ihtiyat)

Don't use Ativan Tablet if you are allergic to Lorazepam or any ingredient
Avoid alcohol, opioids, and other sedatives while taking Ativan Tablet

Side Effects Summary Table

Type	Side Effect	Action
Common	Drowsiness	Monitor / inform doctor
Common	Dizziness	Monitor / inform doctor
Common	Weakness	Monitor / inform doctor
Serious	Severe breathing difficulty	See a doctor immediately
Serious	Signs of withdrawal or dependence	See a doctor immediately

Reporting Side Effects

If you notice any unexpected side effect, report it on the DRAP pharmacovigilance portal: https://www.dra.gov.pk/pharmacovigilance

The information in this guide is for educational purposes only. If you notice any side effect, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common side effects of Ativan Tablet?

The most commonly reported side effects of Ativan Tablet include drowsiness and dizziness. These are usually mild and go away on their own. Inform your doctor if they persist.

Can Ativan Tablet cause dependence?

Yes. Ativan Tablet is a benzodiazepine and carries a risk of tolerance and physical dependence, especially with long-term or unsupervised use. Never take it longer than prescribed, and never stop it suddenly.

Is Ativan Tablet safe to take for a long time?

Long-term use of Ativan Tablet is generally avoided because of the risk of dependence. Your doctor will monitor for signs of tolerance or withdrawal risk if continued use is needed and will decide on the appropriate duration.

What should I do if I experience side effects from Ativan Tablet?

For mild side effects, inform your pharmacist. For serious effects such as severe breathing difficulty or signs of withdrawal, stop the medicine only under medical guidance and contact your doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital.

What happens if Ativan Tablet is combined with alcohol or opioids?

Combining Ativan Tablet with alcohol or opioids can cause dangerously slowed breathing and extreme sedation, which can be life-threatening. Never combine Ativan Tablet with alcohol, opioids, or other sedatives without your doctor's explicit approval.

Brand alternatives, same-class options, and other medicines used for the same conditions as Ativan Tablet.

Brand alternatives

Other Lorazepam brands available in Pakistan.

All brands →

Ativan Tablet
Lorazepam
Pfizer PakistanRs. 1450–2000

Other benzodiazepines

Sibling medicines in the Benzodiazepines class.

All in class →

Used for the same conditions

Other medicines commonly used for anxiety and overlapping conditions.

Anxiety hub →

Sources

DRAP Registered Products Database — Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan
DRAP Controlled Substances / Scheduled Drugs Notifications — Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan
WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, 23rd ed. (2023) — World Health Organization
British National Formulary (BNF) — BMJ Group & Pharmaceutical Press

Medical disclaimer

This page is for educational use only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always confirm diagnosis, dose, and interactions with a qualified doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medicine.