How long should I take Ativan?
I have been on Ativan (Lorazapam) for 21 years now. I started taking it when I was 18 and am now 39. When I was in the hospital a few weeks ago for depression a doctor told me that was neglegence on behalf of the doctor that prescribed me that for that amount of years. He said it was only to be taken for a max of 4 months. I know I have a lot of memory loss. Is there anything I can do about this doctor prescribing me this meds for 21 years.
Chosen Answer:
I have been on ativan off and on for 3 years with my cancer treatment. You were told right, no one should be on it for more than a few months at a time, or any benzodiazapine, for that fact. THey are highly addictive and they all have amnesic qualities.
In my case, ativan is used to help the nausea, and I know of other cases of people having ms pr parkinsons that have used these meds on a long term basis. However, it is generally not recommended.
I would be willing to bet that if you were taking it regularly you are addicted.
You need to talk to the ama, and local state health board.
by: sky
on: 3rd January 08
Yes. Report the DR. to the AMA. Do online,by phone ect. Talk to an attorney.
i am also on ativan and i did hear about that 4 months
when i asked my doc about it he said i could take it longer
but i have to be followed by him the one who prescribes it thats the answer i got
and ive been on them for about 6 years now
probly depending on the mg you got i was on the
2 mg for about 2 years after that he put it down to 1 mg
still works for me and the effects are not as bad
i m also very sensitive to depression i ve had a few to
im 30 btw!
i wish you the best i really do
Long-term use of Ativan is indicated in some cases and long-term, low-dose use is generally considered to be safe. I have no idea what your dosages over the years have been or what it is currently. Long-term use may cause the med to lose its effectiveness. Short-term memory loss is associated with lorazepam.
I don’t know if your memory can be recovered nor do I know for how great a loss you have or how long the loss has continued.
You might want to start with the doctor who prescribed for all this time. Arrange an appointment to sit down and discuss this. Have your questions in order and get answers. If you’re not satisfied with what the doctor tells you, get your medical records from this office and see another doctor. If this second doctor can confirm the strong probablity that long-term use of Ativan has affected your memory, then you may have a case against the prescribing physician. If you feel you can prove that this has adversely affected the quality of your life (that it has harmed you in some significant way), see a lawyer. You will need a written statement from the doctor at the hospital who stated it was “negligence”. A attorney will help you determine if you have a provable case that’s worth pursuing.
Keep in mind, you may have to justify why you didn’t take responsibility for knowing more about the medications you take.
I have been on ativan off and on for 3 years with my cancer treatment. You were told right, no one should be on it for more than a few months at a time, or any benzodiazapine, for that fact. THey are highly addictive and they all have amnesic qualities.
In my case, ativan is used to help the nausea, and I know of other cases of people having ms pr parkinsons that have used these meds on a long term basis. However, it is generally not recommended.
I would be willing to bet that if you were taking it regularly you are addicted.
You need to talk to the ama, and local state health board.