Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Dom Lorazepam.
HEALTH CANADA ADVISORY
October 30, 2020
Health Canada has issued new restrictions concerning the use of benzodiazepines and benzodiazepine-like prescription drugs. To read the full Health Canada Advisory, visit Health Canada's web site at www.hc-sc.gc.ca.
Alcohol and other medications that cause drowsiness: People taking Dom Lorazepam should not combine it with alcohol and avoid combining it with other medications, such as narcotic pain relievers, that cause drowsiness. Doing so can cause additive drowsiness and reduced breathing, as well as other side effects, which can be dangerous.
Allergic reaction: Some people may develop a serious allergic reaction to Dom Lorazepam. Signs of an allergic reaction include a severe rash, Hives, swollen face or throat, or difficulty breathing. If these occur, seek immediate medical attention.
Dependence and withdrawal: Physical dependence (a need to take regular doses to prevent physical symptoms) has been associated with benzodiazepines such as lorazepam. Severe withdrawal symptoms may be experienced if the dose is significantly reduced or suddenly discontinued. Withdrawal symptoms can include:
- abdominal cramps
- agitation
- confusion
- diarrhea
- extreme anxiety
- headache
- irritability
- memory impairment
- muscle pain
- nervousness
- restlessness
- sleep problems
- tension
- tremors
- vomiting
Reducing the dose gradually under medical supervision can help prevent or decrease these withdrawal symptoms. If you have a history of addiction or Substance Use Problems, discuss the risks and benefits of the medication with your doctor.
Depression: People who have preexisting depression may experience emerging or worsening symptoms of depression while taking Dom Lorazepam. If you experience this, contact your doctor as soon as possible. People with depression should be treated with appropriate antidepressant therapy.
If you experience symptoms of depression such as poor concentration, changes in weight, changes in sleep, decreased interest in activities, or notice them in a family member who is taking Dom Lorazepam contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Drowsiness/reduced alertness: People taking lorazepam should not drive a car or perform hazardous tasks until they determine that Dom Lorazepam does not impair their ability to perform these tasks safely. Avoid drinking alcohol, as it can increase the drowsiness effects of Dom Lorazepam.
Kidney function: Kidney Disease or reduced kidney function may cause Dom Lorazepam to build up in the body, causing side effects. If you have reduced kidney function or kidney disease, discuss with your doctor how Dom Lorazepam may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Dom Lorazepam, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Liver function: Liver disease or reduced liver function may cause Dom Lorazepam to build up in the body, causing side effects. If you have liver problems, discuss with your doctor how Dom Lorazepam may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Dom Lorazepam, and whether any special monitoring is needed. Your doctor may want to test your liver function regularly with blood tests while you are taking Dom Lorazepam.
If you experience symptoms of liver problems such as fatigue, feeling unwell, loss of appetite, nausea, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, dark urine, pale stools, abdominal pain or swelling, and itchy skin, contact your doctor immediately.
Lung disease: If you have underlying lung disease (e.g., COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), Sleep Apnea), discuss with your doctor how Dom Lorazepam may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Dom Lorazepam, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Pregnancy: Taking lorazepam during the first trimester of pregnancy may result in an increased risk of certain birth defects. Dom Lorazepam should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while taking Dom Lorazepam, contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: Dom Lorazepam passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking lorazepam, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children and adolescents: The safety and effectiveness of using Dom Lorazepam have not been established for those under 18 years of age.
Seniors: Seniors may be more likely to experience side effects of lorazepam, such as sedation (drowsiness) and impaired coordination. Seniors should discuss with their doctor the risks and benefits of taking Dom Lorazepam.
