What is lorazepam?
Lorazepam (brand names: Ativan®, Lorazepam Intensol®) is a benzodiazepine medication used to treat behavior problems such as anxiety, fears, and phobias. It can also be used to treat seizures or to stimulate appetite in cats.
Its use in cats and dogs to treat seizures or behavior problems is ‘off label’ or ‘extra label’. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off label use in veterinary medicine. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully as their directions may be significantly different from those on the label.
Lorazepam is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or liquid. It can also be given as an injection in the hospital setting. It may be given with or without food, however, if vomiting occurs when dosed on an empty stomach, give future doses with food. Tablets will dissolve quickly in the mouth, so if pilling is difficult, place the pill in the check followed by a treat a minute later to facilitate swallowing. Measure liquid forms carefully.
When using for behavioral triggers, give this medication about an hour prior to the triggering event. Do not leave your pet unattended the first time this medication is used and monitor your pet for side effects. If using long-term, do not stop this medication abruptly or rebound effects may occur.
This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 days, and improvements in clinical signs should follow.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
Lorazepam should not be used in pets that are allergic to it or other benzodiazepines. Do not use in pets with severe breathing problems or liver disease. Do not stop this medication abruptly or rebound effects may occur. It should be used cautiously in pets that are pregnant or lactating. Use lorazepam cautiously in pets with kidney disease, glaucoma, debilitated or geriatric pets, or in working dogs.
How is Ativan Given to a Dog?
Ativan can be administered in a couple of ways including by mouth or by injection.
When it is fed to a dog, it is given in a tablet or in liquid form, which can be taken with or without food, but if there’s vomiting, then it should be taken only with food.
When administering this medication for the first time, make sure not to leave your pet unattended and also keep a close eye out for any negative effects.
How To Use Lorazepam (Ativan) | Pharmacist Explains
Whenever possible, lorazepam should be given to dogs in advance of an event that is known to cause anxiety. The drug can also be given at the earliest sign that a dog is becoming anxious.