Ativan can be taken multiple ways. Lorazepam may be administered orally, by patch, sublingually or under the tongue, through muscular injection or by IV. If administered through IV, effects can begin within one minute. If given via injection, it can take up to an hour for the recipient to feel the results. When taking Ativan by mouth it can take up to two hours in order to work. Unlike other benzodiazepines, because Ativan has been found to have a high affinity for GABA receptors in the brain which may explain the strong amnesic effect it can have. Because of the strength associated with the drug, it is important that the dosing of Ativan not be all in one shot. So, unless Ativan is prescribed just for night sedation, its best to split up the doses to several throughout the day.

Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur: breathing difficulties chest pain convulsions (seizures) hallucinations skin rash or itching swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat