Is it OK to take Ativan before bed?

Ativan (lorazepam) is a medication that is commonly used to treat anxiety and insomnia. It can cause drowsiness and sedation, and it is often prescribed to be taken before bedtime to help with sleep. However, the timing and dosage of Ativan should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider, as it can cause side effects and dependence if used improperly or for prolonged periods.

It’s important to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions and not to exceed the recommended dosage or duration of treatment, as Ativan can cause side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, memory impairment, and dependence. Long-term use of Ativan can also lead to tolerance, meaning that higher doses are needed to achieve the same effects, and withdrawal symptoms, such as rebound anxiety, agitation, and seizures, when the medication is stopped abruptly.

If you are taking Ativan before bed, make sure that you have enough time to sleep and avoid activities that require concentration or coordination, such as driving, operating machinery, or drinking alcohol. It’s also important to avoid taking Ativan with other medications that can cause sedation or respiratory depression, such as opioids, antihistamines, or alcohol, as this can increase the risk of side effects or overdose.

If you have any questions or concerns about the use of Ativan, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you determine the best course of action based on your individual needs and monitor your response to the medication. They may also suggest other treatments or lifestyle changes that can improve your sleep or reduce the need for medication.


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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