Ativan & B Complex Vitamins

Ativan, with the generic name lorazepam, is a drug used to treat anxiety disorders. Ativan belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines. Ativan is also used to treat insomnia, epilepsy, irritable bowel syndrome and nausea and vomiting caused by cancer treatment, according to PubMed Health. B vitamins are necessary for metabolism and maintenance of healthy nervous system 1. B complex vitamins also helps the brain function properly, which reduces anxiety 1.

Ativan and B-Complex Vitamins

Patients taking B-complex vitamins or multivitamins may require dose adjustment of Ativan, according to PubMed Health 1. B vitamins help maintain healthy nerves and proper nervous system functioning, which decreases anxiety and other neurological symptoms 1. Ativan dosage may therefore be lowered in patients taking B vitamins because of improved neurological and brain functioning 1.

Sources of B Vitamins

Patients with anxiety problems should increase consumption of vitamin B rich foods. Foods high in B vitamins include fortified breads and cereals, brewer's yeast, beans, lentils, peas, bananas, whole grains, nutritional yeast, molasses, red meat, milk, dairy products, tuna, turkey, eggs, potatoes, tempeh, and green leafy vegetables such as:

• spinach
  
• broccoli
  
• cauliflower
  
• Brussels sprouts
  
• according to Medline Plus 1

Ativan Administration

Ativan is available as tablets and liquids that are taken orally. Ativan is usually taken two or three times a day with or without food. Ativan liquid should be diluted in 1 ounce of water or juice before taking it. Patients should not stop taking Ativan suddenly because this can cause withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, nervousness and increased anxiety. Patients can become easily addicted to Ativan. Tolerance may also develop with long-term or excessive use of Ativan.

Ativan Side Effects

Patients taking Ativan may experience common side effects such as:

• dizziness
  
• drowsiness
  
• weakness
  
• dry mouth
  
• nausea
  
• loss of appetite
  
• diarrhea
  
• constipation
  
• restlessness
  
• blurred vision
  
• frequent urination
  
• changes in sex drive
  
• according to PubMed Health