NATIONAL
CALIFORNIA
VENTURA
category
mechanism
- Binds to benzodiazepine receptors on the GABA neuron at several sites within the central nervous system and enhances the effect of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter.
indications
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Seizure
contraindications
- Preexisting CNS depression (alcohol or other CNS depressant drugs)
- Angle-closure glaucoma
- Hypotension
- Use with caution in patients with severe liver or pulmonary impairment
dosing
Adult
Active seizure: IV, IM: 2 mg
Sedation for agitation or intubated patient: IV, IM, PO: 0.5 - 2 mg
Pediatric
Active seizure: IV, IM: 0.1 mg/kg
Sedation for agitation or intubated patient: IV, IM, PO: 0.05 mg/kg
administration
IM: Administer undiluted
IV: Dilute prior to use (according to the manufacturer). Do not exceed 2 mg/minute over 2 to 5 minutes.
onset
IV: Within 10 minutes
IM, Oral: 20 to 30 minutes
peak
1 to 2 hours
duration
6-8 hours
notes
- Respiratory adverse reactions: The most common complication in the treatment of seizures with benzodiazepines is hypoventilation, respiratory depression, and apnea.
- Monitoring: Monitor blood pressure, pulse, and respirations continuously during administration. Oxygen and resuscitative equipment should be readily available.
- CNS depressant medications: Additive CNS depression when used with other CNS depressants such as antihistamines, antidepressants, opioid analgesics, or alcohol.
dosage form
Oral tablet: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg
IV solution: 2 mg/mL (1 mL, 10 mL)
IV solution: 2 mg/mL (1 mL, 10 mL)
brand name
Ativan
adverse reactions
- Respiratory
- Apnea
- Respiratory depression
- Cardiovascular
- Cardiac Arrest
- Bradycardia
- Hypotension
- Gastrointestinal
- Constipation
- Diarrrhea
- Nausea/Vomiting
- Central Nervous System
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Lethargy
- Headache
- Slurred speech
- Confusion
- Paradoxical excitation
structure
