Lorazepam (Ativan^®) is a drug that is approved to treat anxiety. It belongs to a class of medications known as benzodiazepines. The drug is thought to work in the brain by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) -- a brain chemical that is naturally calming.

 

Lorazepam comes in tablet, oral liquid, and injectable forms. As with all medications, side effects are possible with lorazepam. Some of the common side effects of this drug include dizziness, weakness, and unsteadiness. Among the conditions that you should tell your healthcare provider about before you take lorazepam are glaucoma, depression, liver disease (including liver failure or cirrhosis), and any allergies you may have (including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives).