FYI information about Ativan

When I saw my pdoc last week I complained to him about my memory loss issues.  I couldn't remember many things - conversations, things that I had done or not done.  It was becoming a huge issue for me.  He then told me that the culprit for this issue was the Ativan - I was on 2mg.  He said that Ativan is notorius for causing memory loss.    There are other medications that can be used that will provide the same thing that Ativan does - help keep the anxiety down.  One of those meds is Valium which is what I am on now.  I won't get back the things I couldn't remember before, but at least I will be able to remember what is going on now.  I just wanted to share this info. with you all in case you are on Ativan and having the same issue.  If anyone is, then maybe you should talk to your pdoc about this and try a different me.    I hope this information has helped.   Hugs to all, Wen

Thanks Wen and to go a step further, my Pdoc feels all the benzos are  not good long term as they do act as a sedative and therefore you don't think as clear on the meds as off.

I believe they have their place in the treatment of anxiety but I am willing to give it a go without them.........not until after the holidays thow. :)  I am down to 1 mg of Valium per day.

Love

Kitt

Lyn and Kitt,   Thank you for more information on this issue.  I too was on 2mg 3x/day with the Ativan.  Now I'm on Valium 1mg 3x/day but can also have up to 6/day if needed.  So far the most I have had is 4.  Although I am not a senior (yet - LOL), the memory loss was a HUGE issue for me and frankly, it's quite scary to think that a prescript ion drug can cause this kind of a problem.   Here's hoping we all have the best time tomorrow.   Love to both of you,   Wen

Wen,

So glad you posted this.  I was on Ativan for 7 years, and changed to Clonazepam about 6 months ago.  It definitely has affected my memory.  My pdoc didn't specify which drug caused this (I've been on so many over the years) but now I am sure that could have been it.

Anyway, hope you are continuing to get well hun

I am so glad this information has helped others.  Even though I'm not on the Ativan now (only been a few days), I'm still having trouble with my memory.  My daughter told me today that yesterday I told her she could do something - I don't remember even having this conversation!!!!!!!!  This is so annoying and frustrating.  Oy Vei!   Again, glad I could help.  I hope everyone has had a great day today!  Merry Christmas all.   Wen