11 Bizarre Twists Your Body Takes on the Lorazepram Rollercoaster

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.