Can You Drink Alcohol With Ativan?

Are you taking Ativan for anxiety or other medical conditions? Do you wonder if it is safe to consume alcohol while taking Ativan? This article will give you an overview of the effects of combining Ativan and alcohol, and what you should consider before drinking while taking Ativan. We will discuss the potential risks and side effects of combining Ativan and alcohol, and provide some alternatives to drinking while taking Ativan. Read on to learn more about drinking alcohol while on Ativan.

What is Ativan?

Ativan, also known as lorazepam, is a type of benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety, seizures, and insomnia. It is a short-acting medication that works by calming the brain and central nervous system. It can be used on its own or in combination with other drugs.

How does Ativan Work?

Ativan works by increasing the levels of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, meaning it reduces the activity of the nervous system. This can help reduce anxiety, seizures, and insomnia.

What are the Side Effects of Ativan?

Common side effects of Ativan include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and headaches. It can also cause blurred vision, dry mouth, and constipation. It can also cause sleepiness and fatigue.

Can You Drink Alcohol With Ativan?

It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Ativan. Drinking alcohol can increase the sedative effects of Ativan, which can lead to drowsiness, confusion, and impaired coordination. This can increase the risk of falls and other accidents.

Interactions Between Ativan and Alcohol

Mixing Ativan and alcohol can increase the risk of developing side effects, including drowsiness, confusion, and impaired coordination. Drinking alcohol can also increase the risk of developing a tolerance to the drug, leading to increased dosages.

Risks of Combining Alcohol and Ativan

Combining alcohol and Ativan can also increase the risk of serious side effects, including depression, memory problems, and difficulty concentrating. In addition, drinking alcohol can increase the risk of developing an addiction to Ativan.

What Should You Do Before Taking Ativan?

Before taking Ativan, it is important to talk to your doctor about your medical history. Your doctor will be able to determine if Ativan is the right medication for your needs, and can also advise you on how to safely take the medication.

Talk to Your Doctor About Your Alcohol Use

It is important to talk to your doctor about your alcohol use before taking Ativan. If you are a heavy drinker, your doctor may recommend that you reduce your alcohol intake or abstain from drinking altogether.

Discuss Alternatives to Ativan

Your doctor may also recommend an alternative to Ativan, such as an antidepressant or anti-anxiety medication. There are also non-pharmaceutical treatments for anxiety and insomnia, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and exercise.

Related Faq

Can You Drink Alcohol With Ativan?

Answer: No, it is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Ativan. Taking Ativan along with alcohol can cause a dangerous reaction that can lead to serious complications and even death. When taken together, Ativan and alcohol can increase the effects of both substances, leading to confusion, drowsiness, and other serious side effects.

What Are the Risks of Drinking Alcohol With Ativan?

Answer: Drinking alcohol with Ativan is extremely dangerous and can lead to serious health complications including difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, coma, and even death. Additionally, combining Ativan and alcohol can increase the effects of both substances, leading to confusion, drowsiness, impaired judgment, and impaired coordination. This can increase the risk of falls, accidents, and other serious injuries.

Can You Take Ativan and Drink Alcohol Later?

Answer: It is not recommended to take Ativan and drink alcohol at separate times. Even if several hours have passed since taking Ativan, alcohol can still increase the effects of Ativan and lead to serious side effects. Additionally, taking Ativan and drinking alcohol at separate times can lead to an increased risk of alcohol poisoning, as the effects of Ativan can mask the symptoms of alcohol poisoning.

What Are the Alternatives to Taking Ativan and Drinking Alcohol?

Answer: If you are taking Ativan, it is important to avoid drinking alcohol. Instead, look for other activities to manage symptoms of anxiety or insomnia. Examples include exercising, deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation. Additionally, talking to a therapist or counselor can help you manage stress and anxiety without the use of drugs or alcohol.

What Should I Do If I Accidentally Take Ativan and Drink Alcohol?

Answer: If you have accidentally combined Ativan and alcohol, seek medical attention immediately. Signs of a dangerous reaction to the combination of Ativan and alcohol can include disorientation, confusion, slurred speech, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness. Do not attempt to “sleep it off” as this can be extremely dangerous.

What Should I Tell My Doctor Before Taking Ativan?

Answer: Prior to taking Ativan, it is important to tell your doctor if you consume alcohol regularly. Additionally, be sure to provide your doctor with a list of all medications, vitamins, and supplements that you are currently taking. This will help ensure that Ativan is prescribed in a safe and effective manner.

The Dangers of Mixing Ativan and Alcohol

In conclusion, alcohol and Ativan are both powerful central nervous system depressants that can interact with each other and increase the risk of serious side effects. It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Ativan, as the combination could potentially be fatal. It is best to speak with a doctor or pharmacist before combining the two substances to ensure that it is safe to do so.