Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Ativan as follows: Follow closely on the expiration date of the medication. If using a pillbox, check the expiration date on the medication container every time you fill the pillbox. If you are taking this medication for longer periods of time, set reminders on your phone, one 10 days ahead, the next a week ahead, and then every day, before you run out of the [...]

Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Ativan as follows: Some medications, such as, phenytoin and carbamazepine, induce the enzymes needed for the metabolism of Ativan. Concurrent administration of these medications with Ativan can quicken the metabolism of ativan and clear the medication out of the body quicker. Thus, ativan stays in the body for shorter duration of time in comparison to normal and results in compromised therapeutic benefit. If you are being newly started [...]

Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Ativan as follows: Ativan intake can be habit-forming and carries an abuse potential. The risk for addiction and abuse can be even higher, especially in individuals with history of substance abuse. Ativan must be used with extreme caution or avoided in such individuals, to prevent any abuse and toxic side-effects with Ativan use. Ativan use in expectant mothers could harm the unborn baby and result in pregnancy complications, [...]

Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Ativan as follows: Do not take ativan, if you ever manifested any allergic responses to intake of ativan or any other medications belonging to the same group as ativan, such as, oxazepam, alprazolam, prazepam, and diazepam. In the event of an allergic response with any of these medications, check with your physician regarding your safety with intake of Ativan. Ativan, especially when taken in high doses, can lead [...]

Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Ativan as follows: Musculoskeletal side-effects Ativan use can result in slurred speech, motor incoordination, with consequent increased fall risk and accidents. Confusion and dizziness with Ativan use, can add to the motor incoordination, thus enhancing the fall risk significantly. Withdrawal syndrome Tapering the dose gradually over a period of time is the preferred way to quit Ativan. Sudden withdrawal from Ativan, after using for prolonged period of [...]