How it works and what it does
Ativan works by acting on GABA receptors in the brain, therefore releasing GABA, a neurotransmitter. Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the body that send messages between nerve cells. GABA works as a nerve calming agent; it is involved in balancing brain activity, relaxing muscles, causing sleepiness, and reducing anxiety. By making the brain produce more of this neurotransmitter, ativan promotes these effects.
Ativan and other benzodiazepines are effective in quickly calming an individual having severe anxiety and anxiety related conditions, such as acute mania, excitement or agitation. It is used as a short term relief while other antidepressants or mood stabilisers can take effect as more long-term solutions. It can also be used by injection for epileptic fits and seizures because GABA helps calm the excessive electrical nerve activity in the brain that causes seizures.
Side effects:
Ativan and other benzodiazepines are effective in quickly calming an individual having severe anxiety and anxiety related conditions, such as acute mania, excitement or agitation. It is used as a short term relief while other antidepressants or mood stabilisers can take effect as more long-term solutions. It can also be used by injection for epileptic fits and seizures because GABA helps calm the excessive electrical nerve activity in the brain that causes seizures.
Side effects:
- Can cause birth defects in unborn children (pregnant women should not take it)
- Causes sleepiness
- Can be addictive (it is only recommended for regular use in short time periods, usually a few weeks)
- can cause impairment of muscles and concentration