So, How Is Ativan Supposed To Work?

[REP]

Is it supposed to make you so tired that you just can't notice how stressed and anxious you are anymore? I'm still awake; does this mean that I haven't taken enough?

[Bullwinkle925]

1. I don't know the # of mg. you took -

When my husband takes 2mg - it knocks him on his ass for the day.

[depakid]

2. Ativan (one of the benzos) is a sedative hypnotic

No conclusive data explain how sedative-hypnotics function. Gamma-aminobutyric butyric acid (GABA) is the most widely distributed inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. GABA opens chloride (Cl) channels, causing an influx of Cl ions. The influx of Cl ions causes hyperpolarization of the neuron, subsequently inhibiting neuronal discharge. Benzodiazepines and barbiturates potentiate the actions of GABA in a similar fashion via specific receptors, which are located near the GABA receptors. The GABA (A) receptor subunit, composed of multiple forms (eg, alpha, beta, gamma) has been proposed as the functional unit on which benzodiazepines and barbiturates operate.

Benzodiazepine receptors in the CNS have been classified as BZ1 and BZ2 subtypes, based on relative affinities for different benzodiazepines and nonbenzodiazepines. As an example, imidazopyridines (eg, zolpidem) may act via the BZ1 receptors, although contradictory evidence exists regarding this. GABA is believed to facilitate the affinity these drugs have for their receptors. The action of hyperpolarization is reversed by the influx of calcium into the cell.

The long-term pharmacodynamics interaction of benzodiazepines with the GABA receptor is thought to be extremely complex. Long-term use of benzodiazepines and barbiturates is thought to result in down-regulation of inhibitory GABA receptors and configurational changes of the receptor-agonist complex, resulting in diminished agonist sensitivity.

These changes are potential mechanisms of tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal. The abrupt cessation of benzodiazepines, as in the case of a patient discontinuing a benzodiazepine after long-term use, is thought to result in the classically described acute withdrawal symptoms as the inhibitory pressure is removed, leaving a relative excitatory state.

http://www.emedicine.com/med/topic3119.htm

[REP]

5. Well, No Wonder Then

I know it's a benzo, but it just occurred to me that I have the paradoxical reaction to a lot of sedatives. I'm very tired, but not especially sleepy.

[Eurobabe]

3. No, it takes the edge off so you can function

if you take too much, then yes you will get sleepy. I would start with the lowest dose possible and if you need more, ramp up. I take Klonopin (another benzo) for the anxiety related to an autoimmune disorder, and I am on a very small dosage.

It has given me my life back, in combination with my thyroid medication.

[REP]

4. I Take Another Anti-Anxiety Med Daily

I was given Ativan to deal the the increased stress and anxiety I've been dealing with (when it gets to a certain point, I get a form of aphasia and do things completely out of character, like lock myself out of my apartment). The dose I'm on doesn't seem to do shit except make me tired - not sleepy, just tired.

[Eurobabe]

6. My mom takes

Lexapro (for depression and anxiety) and Klonopin (plus thyroid meds). I know they do have a tendency to make her tired sometimes, but the thyroid meds mitigate that to an extent.

[zanne]

7. Same here. nt

[xchrom]

8. once when i was on chemo -- they gave me ativan --

i asked for valium after that.

made me nuttier than i am.