11 Bizarre Twists Your Body Takes on the Lorazepram Rollercoaster

Lorazepam is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines. It is frequently used to treat anxiety, and doctors may also prescribe it for sleep issues, alcohol withdrawal, and active seizures. Patients receiving chemotherapy typically use lorazepam to reduce the nausea and vomiting that could occur during their treatment, and the medication is used during surgical procedures to block memory formation and sedate patients on mechanical ventilators. Lorazepam should not be used during pregnancy, and it is not safe for use in individuals who have narrow-angle glaucoma, severe respiratory insufficiency, or myasthenia gravis. Before lorazepam is prescribed, patients should let their healthcare team know if they have epilepsy, respiratory conditions, liver disease, kidney issues, or a history of depression. Lorazepam can be taken with or without food, and patients who use it for anxiety relief should take the largest dose before bedtime.

1. Drowsiness

Patients who take this medication often report drowsiness, and individuals over fifty years old may experience prolonged sedation when lorazepam is used during surgery. Patients may find they are tired during the day, and the drowsiness might make them unable to participate in daily activities as well as they otherwise would. Since each patient will experience drowsiness differently, it is especially important for patients to avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or performing other potentially dangerous tasks during their first few days or weeks of using this medicine. This will help patients learn how lorazepam impacts their energy levels, and they can plan ways to minimize this impact or get help with driving and other tasks as needed. To minimize drowsiness, it could be beneficial to split the prescribed daily dose of lorazepam into several smaller doses throughout the day. Taking the largest dose just before bedtime could reduce the disruption this medication might create in the patient's daily activities. Patients who are difficult to wake should be taken to an emergency room to be evaluated, and any instances of increasing drowsiness while on lorazepam should be reported to the patient's doctors immediately.

2. Nausea

Although lorazepam is prescribed to reduce nausea caused by chemotherapy, patients who use it have sometimes reported nausea as a side effect. Generally, nausea associated with lorazepam is most likely to occur in female patients over sixty years old, and it typically begins during the first month of treatment. Patients who take lorazepam together with ondansetron (a medication used to reduce vomiting after surgery or chemotherapy) tend to experience nausea more than patients who use lorazepam by itself. Individuals who struggle with chronic pain while on lorazepam are also at an elevated risk of having nausea as a side effect of this medicine. To reduce nausea, patients may want to try getting outside for fresh air, and it can help to avoid strong odors and perfumes. Eating small, bland meals is recommended, and some patients have reduced their nausea with the use of ginger or peppermint. Patients should always let their doctor know if they experience nausea for more than a few days, and it is especially important to inform healthcare staff if nausea worsens or prevents the patient from eating or drinking entirely.

3. Constipation

Constipation is one of the most common side effects associated with lorazepam. The drug slows down the normal stimulation of the gastrointestinal system, and this produces constipation. Female patients over sixty years old are most likely to develop constipation while on lorazepam, and those who take lorazepam with zoledronic acid have an even higher risk of this side effect. To reduce the likelihood of constipation, patients who use lorazepam may want to increase their dietary fiber intake. This can be done by eating more high-fiber foods such as oatmeal, whole wheat, and cereals. Patients may also need to take a fiber supplement, and laxatives could be needed if fiber is not enough to relieve constipation. In cases of prolonged constipation that have lasted more than four or five days, patients might need to use an enema instead; these are available over-the-counter, and they can be administered by hospital staff as well. Prolonged or untreated constipation could cause serious complications. Patients should make a doctor's appointment if constipation is accompanied by abdominal pain, fever, leaking stool, or rectal bleeding. If the patient vomits, has a swollen abdomen, or is unable to pass any bowel movements at all, emergency medical attention is necessary.

4. Headaches

Patients who take lorazepam may sometimes experience headaches. Female patients and those over sixty years old are particularly likely to report this side effect, and it also occurs more frequently in patients with depression and in those who take zolpidem. Tension headaches and headaches that last for a prolonged period have both been reported in patients who use this medication. Since headaches can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, patients should inform their healthcare team if they experience this side effect, and emergency medical attention should be obtained if the patient experiences a headache that causes severe pain or changes in vision. Depending on the severity of the patient's headaches, it may be necessary to take additional prescription medicine to relieve this side effect. Pain from mild to moderate headaches could be eased with the use of hot or cold packs applied to the affected area, and resting in a dark, quiet room is often recommended. Some patients have found relief from headache pain by adding caffeine or ginger products to their diets.

5. Confusion And Memory Problems

Confusion and short-term memory issues are often reported with lorazepam use, particularly in older adults and those on higher doses. Patients might forget recent conversations or tasks, and they may have difficulty concentrating or following instructions. These symptoms can be unsettling and may affect daily functioning, such as managing finances or taking medications correctly. In a hospital setting, healthcare professionals often watch for signs of disorientation or confusion, as these can be especially problematic when combined with an unfamiliar environment. If a patient or their loved ones notice an increase in memory lapses, confusion, or difficulty concentrating, it is crucial to discuss this with the prescribing doctor. Adjusting the lorazepam dose or evaluating for alternative treatments may reduce these side effects. Patients who already have cognitive impairments or dementia might experience exacerbation of these conditions while on lorazepam. In some cases, simple modifications—like using pill organizers or written reminders—can help mitigate the impact of mild confusion or memory issues. However, if confusion escalates into severe disorientation or the patient becomes a danger to themselves (for instance, by wandering or forgetting to turn off appliances), medical attention is necessary to reassess the treatment strategy.

6. Withdrawal Symptoms

Lorazepam, like other benzodiazepines, carries a risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms, particularly when used for an extended period or at higher doses. Patients who suddenly stop taking lorazepam after long-term use may experience withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, restlessness, sweating, tremors, and insomnia. In severe cases, withdrawal can lead to seizures or psychosis. To prevent such complications, healthcare providers often recommend tapering off the medication gradually, reducing the dose incrementally rather than stopping abruptly. Patients should be honest with their doctors about how long they’ve been using lorazepam, any increases in dosage, and any signs of craving or compulsive usage. If withdrawal symptoms begin to manifest, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional immediately; in some instances, temporarily readjusting the dosage or switching to a long-acting benzodiazepine can help stabilize the patient before continuing the taper. Support from a mental health professional or an addiction specialist may also be beneficial for patients struggling with anxiety that initially led to lorazepam usage. Proper management of withdrawal is key to minimizing discomfort and ensuring patient safety.

7. Respiratory Depression

Respiratory depression, characterized by slow or shallow breathing, is a serious potential complication of lorazepam use. This risk elevates when lorazepam is combined with other central nervous system depressants, such as opioids or alcohol. Elderly individuals and patients with existing respiratory conditions, like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or sleep apnea, are at heightened risk. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, blue-tinged lips or fingernails, and excessive drowsiness that progresses to unconsciousness. It is crucial for patients to inform their doctor if they have a history of breathing problems or if they use medications that also depress respiration. In hospital settings, staff may monitor oxygen levels or provide supplemental oxygen for patients taking lorazepam, especially if high doses are administered. If a patient outside of a hospital environment notices signs of respiratory distress—such as extreme fatigue or slowed breathing patterns—they should seek emergency medical care immediately. Prompt intervention, which may involve supportive breathing measures or reversal agents, can be life-saving in cases of severe respiratory depression.

8. Mood Or Behavior Changes

While lorazepam is primarily prescribed to reduce anxiety and induce sedation, some patients experience paradoxical effects such as increased agitation, irritability, or even aggression. These mood or behavior changes can manifest unexpectedly and may be more common in children, the elderly, or individuals with a history of mental health disorders. Patients might notice heightened anxiety rather than relief, and they could act out in uncharacteristic ways. Loved ones and caregivers should keep a close eye on any shifts in disposition, especially if it involves risk-taking behavior or hostility. Medical professionals typically evaluate whether these mood changes stem from lorazepam or from coexisting conditions, and they might recommend altering the dosage or switching to a different medication. If a patient exhibits intense mood swings or harmful thoughts, immediate psychiatric evaluation is warranted. In certain cases, combining lorazepam with other therapeutic methods—like counseling or cognitive-behavioral therapy—may help stabilize mood while still addressing the original reasons for taking the medication.

9. Allergic Reactions

Though relatively rare, allergic reactions to lorazepam can occur and may manifest as hives, rashes, itching, or swelling—particularly in the face, lips, or throat. In severe situations, patients could experience difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate emergency treatment. Individuals with known allergies to other benzodiazepines should exercise caution and consult thoroughly with their healthcare provider before starting lorazepam. Patients are encouraged to watch for any signs of unusual swelling or skin changes when they begin taking this medication, especially during the first few doses. If an allergic reaction is suspected, medical attention is crucial to prevent complications. Treatment may include antihistamines or steroids, and in extreme cases, epinephrine might be administered. After an allergic reaction, doctors typically re-evaluate the patient’s medication regimen, possibly switching to a non-benzodiazepine alternative or exploring other anxiety management strategies. Recognizing and treating allergic reactions promptly can prevent serious harm and guide safer future treatment options.

10. Loss of Coordination

Loss of coordination is one of the most frequently reported side effects of lorazepam use. This side effect is typically worse when larger doses of the medication are used, and patients who are elderly could be affected more severely. Patients have reported feeling unsteady on their feet, and this increases the risk of falls. In conjunction with unsteadiness, patients have also reported dizziness and weakness. Individuals who feel unsteady or dizzy while taking lorazepam should be especially careful to sit up slowly when getting up from a lying position, and it is equally important to take care when standing up from a sitting position. Throw rugs and other trip hazards should be removed from the patient's home, and it may be necessary for the patient to use a cane, walker, or another device to minimize the risk of falls. Any changes in coordination should be evaluated by the patient's physician to determine whether they stem from an underlying medical condition or whether they are just a side effect of the lorazepam.

Putting Lorazepam in Perspective

Lorazepam stands as a valuable medication for managing anxiety, sleep disturbances, and certain other conditions when used under proper medical guidance. As a benzodiazepine, it helps calm the central nervous system, offering relief from symptoms that can disrupt everyday life. However, like many potent medications, lorazepam is not without potential downsides. From drowsiness and confusion to more serious issues such as respiratory depression or withdrawal, users must remain vigilant for any negative changes in their well-being. The likelihood and intensity of these side effects can vary based on factors like age, dosage, other health conditions, and concurrent use of medications or substances. By maintaining open lines of communication with healthcare providers, patients can address concerns early and possibly adjust dosages or explore alternative treatment options. Lifestyle modifications—such as prioritizing sleep hygiene, managing stress, and staying physically active—can enhance the benefits of lorazepam while potentially reducing the need for higher doses. Regular follow-up appointments also play a key role in assessing the medication’s effectiveness and detecting side effects promptly. Ultimately, the decision to use lorazepam requires balancing its therapeutic advantages with an awareness of the possible risks. Through informed choices, consistent monitoring, and proactive self-care, patients can harness the benefits of this medication while safeguarding their long-term health.