Lorazepam (Ativan) Side Effects in Pakistan

A complete guide to the side effects of Lorazepam (Ativan). It is a controlled benzodiazepine that carries a risk of dependence and withdrawal. From common side effects to serious warnings — everything is covered on this page.

Compiled by the PakVita Editorial Team · AI-assisted drafting with editorial review · Sourced from DRAP, WHO, BNF · Last updated: 2026-06-17

Side Effects

Quick Answer

Common side effects of Lorazepam (Ativan) include drowsiness, dizziness, and muscle weakness. Serious effects such as slow breathing, suicidal thoughts, or paradoxical agitation require immediate emergency attention. Lorazepam also carries a dependence risk — stopping it abruptly is dangerous.

Side Effects at a Glance

Common

Drowsiness / excessive sleepiness
Dizziness
Muscle weakness
Confusion
Unsteady gait / staggering while walking
Headache
Nausea

Serious — See a Doctor

Severe respiratory depression (slow/stopped breathing) — life-threatening
Paradoxical agitation, aggression, or hallucinations — especially in elderly/children
Suicidal thoughts or self-harm ideation
Severe allergic reaction (rash, swelling, anaphylaxis)
Physical dependence and withdrawal syndrome (seizures, tremors, severe anxiety on abrupt discontinuation)

When to See a Doctor Immediately

Extreme drowsiness — unable to wake up properly
Slow or stopped breathing — breathing becomes very slow or stops
Severe confusion or loss of consciousness
Suicidal thoughts or a desire to harm yourself
Paradoxical agitation — becoming more aggressive or restless after taking the medicine
Chest tightness or severe allergic reaction
Seizures or severe tremors on stopping the medicine

Lorazepam (Ativan) Side Effects

Lorazepam (Ativan) is a controlled benzodiazepine. At the correct dose it is relatively safe, but the risk of dependence and serious side effects is real. Use only under a doctor's supervision.

Common Side Effects

Drowsiness / excessive sleepiness
Dizziness
Muscle weakness
Confusion
Unsteady gait / staggering while walking
Headache
Nausea

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

Uncommon Side Effects

Memory problems — anterograde amnesia (difficulty forming new memories)
Slurred speech / difficulty speaking clearly
Blurred vision
Changes in libido

Serious Side Effects — See a Doctor Immediately

Severe respiratory depression — breathing becomes very slow or stops (life-threatening)
Paradoxical reaction — agitation, aggression, hallucinations
Suicidal thoughts — desire to harm yourself
Severe allergic reaction — rash, swelling, anaphylaxis
Dependence and withdrawal — seizures, tremors, severe anxiety on abrupt discontinuation

When to See a Doctor

Extreme drowsiness — unable to wake up properly
Slow or stopped breathing — breathing becomes very slow or stops
Severe confusion or loss of consciousness
Suicidal thoughts or a desire to harm yourself
Paradoxical agitation — becoming more aggressive or restless after taking the medicine
Chest tightness or severe allergic reaction
Seizures or tremors — after stopping the medicine

Dependence & Withdrawal (Important Warning)

Regular use of Lorazepam can cause physical dependence. Stopping it abruptly is dangerous — withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening (seizures). Only taper gradually under a doctor's guidance.

Warnings and Precautions

Absolutely not with alcohol — risk of respiratory depression and death
Risk of falls in the elderly — extra caution required
Monitoring is necessary in those with a history of depression
Dose adjustment in liver/kidney disease — inform your doctor

Side Effects Summary Table

Type	Side Effect	Action
Common	Drowsiness	Monitor / avoid driving
Common	Dizziness	Monitor / inform doctor
Common	Muscle weakness	Monitor
Serious	Slow/stopped breathing	Immediate emergency
Serious	Suicidal thoughts	Immediate emergency
Serious	Paradoxical agitation	See doctor immediately
Risk	Dependence/withdrawal	Never stop abruptly

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

Lorazepam ke side effects kya hain?

Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, muscle weakness, and confusion. Serious effects such as slow breathing, suicidal thoughts, or severe paradoxical agitation require immediate medical attention. Dependence and withdrawal are also important risks.

Kya Lorazepam se neend bahut zyada aati hai?

Yes, drowsiness is the most common side effect of Lorazepam. For this reason, after taking Lorazepam, driving, using heavy machinery, or any activity requiring alertness should be avoided.

Lorazepam dependence kya hoti hai?

After regular use, the body can become physically dependent on Lorazepam. Stopping it abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms (seizures, tremors, severe anxiety, sweating). Only taper gradually under a doctor's guidance.

Kya Lorazepam se suicide ke khayal aa sakte hain?

Yes — this is a serious known side effect, especially in those with a history of depression. If you or someone close to you is experiencing these thoughts, see a doctor immediately or call emergency services.

Elderly mein Lorazepam ke kya khatrat hain?

Lorazepam must be used with special caution in the elderly. The risk of falls is greater, confusion can be more pronounced, and paradoxical reactions (agitation, aggression) are also more common in the elderly.

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

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
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.