Side effects

Tavor® expidet®, like any other drug, can have side effects that are usually triggered by an excessive initial dose. Muscle weakness and fatigue often occurs. As lorazepam affects the central nervous system, too high a dose may result in severe sedation (calming), fatigue and drowsiness.

In addition, it often leads to confusion, dizziness, unsteadiness in walking and movement and coordination disorders. Furthermore, Tavor® expidet® may reduce sexual desire and in rare cases may lead to impotence. Occasionally, nausea may occur while taking Tavor® expidet®.

It can also lead to constipation, jaundice (icterus) and an increase in liver enzymes. If patients are hypersensitive or allergic to the drug or its ingredients, they may experience skin reactions with rashes and itching and, in the worst case, anaphylactic shock with cardiovascular failure and respiratory failure. Since Tavor® expidet® has a high potential for addiction, withdrawal symptoms such as sleep disturbances, renewed anxiety and tension and inner restlessness can occur after weaning. It is therefore essential to gradually reduce the dose of the drug before discontinuing it.

Interaction

When using Tavor® expidet®, special attention must be paid to interactions with other drugs that have a central attenuating effect.These include antidepressants, beta blockers, opiates and neuroleptics. The effect of lorazepam and other centrally attenuating drugs may be enhanced if taken concomitantly. Alcohol should not be consumed while taking Tavor® expidet® as this combination also increases the reduction in brain performance.

Some drugs, such as Probenecid (drug for the treatment of gout), may accelerate the onset of action of lorazepam. In addition, Probenecid causes lorazepam to be excreted through the kidneys at a lower rate. This can prolong the effect of Tavor® expidet®. If lorazepam and clozapine (a neuroleptic used to treat psychosis) are taken simultaneously, increased central attenuation, increased salivation and impaired motor coordination may occur.

Dosage

The dosage of the drug should be considered individually for each patient. Especially patients with certain underlying diseases should be given a risk-benefit assessment. In general, due to the high potential for dependence, Lorazepam should always be prescribed in the lowest effective dose.

The starting dose (initial dose) is usually 1mg Tavor® expidet® 2-3 times a day in anxiety states. In older people a lower dose must be chosen. Therefore, a 50% lower dose of 0.5 mg lorazepam is usually started 2-3 times a day. If the initial dose does not show sufficient effect, it can be slowly increased. If short-term sleep disorders are to be treated, a single daily dose of about 0.5 – 2.5 mg of Lorazepam (depending on the doctor’s advice) half an hour before bedtime is sufficient.