Is Ativan for pain or anxiety?

Ativan (lorazepam) is primarily used for anxiety and insomnia, not for pain relief. Ativan belongs to the class of benzodiazepines, which work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Ativan is commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. It may also be used to manage symptoms of insomnia or acute agitation.

Although Ativan is not typically used for pain relief, it may be used as an adjunct medication to manage pain in certain situations, such as acute anxiety or muscle spasms that accompany pain. However, other medications are typically used as first-line treatment for pain, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen, opioids, or muscle relaxants, depending on the type and severity of pain and the individual’s medical history and response to treatment.

It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about the most appropriate treatment options for your individual needs, whether for anxiety, insomnia, or pain. They can help you determine the best course of action based on your symptoms, medical history, and other factors, and monitor your response to treatment to ensure that you are getting the most benefit with the least risk of side effects or complications.


There are various forms of drugs available, such as tablets or liquids, and each may have a separate patient information leaflet (PIL) for different doses. It is important to refer to the PIL for the specific form and dose of the drug that you have been prescribed.

You can search for further information and PILs on websites such as:

  • The British National Formulary (BNF)
  • Electronic medicines compendium (emc)
  • The National Library of Medicine's DailyMed
  • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 
  • Different drug forms like tablets or liquids have specific patient information leaflets (PIL) for various doses. Refer to the PIL for your prescribed drug form and dose.

    Search for PILs on websites like:

    France

    • ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé): ansm.sante.fr

    Spain

    • AEMPS (Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios): aemps.gob.es

    Germany

    • BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte): bfarm.de

    Italy

    For questions about your medication:

    • Consult your doctor, a healthcare professional, or a pharmacist

    France

    • Contact SOS Médecins: 3624
    • For mental health support, contact SOS Suicide: 01 45 39 40 00

    Belgium (French)

    Switzerland (French)

    • La Main Tendue: 143
    • Website: 143.ch

    Canada (French)

    • Centre de prévention du suicide du Québec: 1 866 APPELLE (1 866 277-3553)
    • Website: cpsquebec.ca

    Spain

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Teléfono de la Esperanza: 717 003 717

    Germany

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefonseelsorge: 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222

    Italy

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefono Amico: 199 284 284

    Netherlands

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact 113 Zelfmoordpreventie: 0800 0113

    Portugal

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Sos Voz Amiga: 21 354 45 45, 91 280 26 69, or 96 352 46 60

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