What are the effects of Ativan on baby?

Understanding Ativan and Its Effects on Infants
Ativan, known generically as lorazepam, is a benzodiazepine commonly prescribed to manage anxiety disorders, insomnia, and seizures. While it can be effective for these conditions, its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding raises significant concerns regarding the health of newborns and infants.
Effects on Newborns
When mothers take Ativan during pregnancy, particularly in the later stages, there is a risk of the baby experiencing withdrawal symptoms after birth. These symptoms can manifest as irritability, excessive crying, sleep disturbances, tremors, and even respiratory issues. In severe cases, the infant may require medical intervention, such as ventilation, due to depressed respiration.
Research indicates that neonates exposed to lorazepam may exhibit lower Apgar scores, which assess the health of newborns immediately after birth. This can include signs of hypothermia and poor suckling reflexes, which are critical for feeding. Although not all infants exposed to Ativan will show these symptoms, the potential for serious effects necessitates caution.
Long-term Implications
Fortunately, most symptoms associated with Ativan exposure in newborns tend to resolve within a few weeks. Current evidence suggests that there are no known long-term effects on infants who experience these withdrawal symptoms. However, the immediate impact can be distressing for both the baby and the parents, highlighting the importance of careful medication management during pregnancy.
Breastfeeding Considerations
For mothers who are breastfeeding while taking Ativan, there are additional risks. Infants may experience sleepiness, feeding difficulties, and potential weight gain issues due to the sedative effects of the medication. This can complicate the breastfeeding process, as a lethargic baby may not feed effectively, leading to concerns about nutrition and growth.
Conclusion
In summary, while Ativan can be an effective treatment for anxiety and related disorders, its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding poses risks to infants. The potential for withdrawal symptoms and feeding difficulties underscores the need for healthcare providers to carefully evaluate the risks and benefits of prescribing this medication to expectant or nursing mothers. Parents should engage in open discussions with their healthcare providers to ensure the safety and well-being of their children.

What happens if a kid takes lorazepam?

street drugs. Drug use disorder can happen even if your child takes this drug as told by the doctor. Get medical help right away if your child has changes in mood or behavior, suicidal thoughts or actions, seizures, or trouble breathing.

Is Ativan used for autism?

Many children with autism may have seizure disorders and it is very important that these medications are carefully monitored and managed. ANTI-ANXIETY: Benzodiazepines, including Ativan® and Klonopin® are used to address symptoms related to anxiety.

Does Ativan affect pregnancy?

Lorazepam can be taken during pregnancy. However, taking lorazepam for a long time, particularly towards the end of pregnancy, may make your baby drowsy after they’re born and can cause withdrawal effects.

What is the most common side effect of Ativan?

Ativan can cause side effects that range from mild to serious. Common side effects include dizziness, weakness, and drowsiness.

Does Ativan affect birth control?

Lorazepam will not affect any contraception, including the combined pill, progestogen-only pill or emergency contraception. Some contraceptives may make lorazepam less effective. Talk to a doctor if you’re taking a contraceptive and you think your lorazepam is not working very well.

Do anxiety meds affect birth control?

Like antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications — such as SSRIs — do not have any known interactions with birth control medications. An essential consideration for anti-anxiety and antidepressants is that these medications can have starting side effects, such as mood swings or headaches.

What is Ativan used for in pediatrics?

Lorazepam is used to relax muscles or relieve muscle spasms. It may also be used if your child is anxious, has seizures, or has nausea and vomiting because of chemotherapy.

Who should not take Ativan?

Do not use Ativan if you are pregnant. Lorazepam can cause birth defects or life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in a newborn. You should not use this medicine if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, severe respiratory insufficiency, myasthenia gravis, or if you are allergic to Valium or a similar medicine.

What are the side effects of lorazepam in infants?

The use of lorazepam during pregnancy can cause temporary symptoms in newborns soon after birth. These symptoms are sometimes referred to as withdrawal. Symptoms can include irritability, crying, sleep disturbances, tremors, jitteriness, trouble breathing, or muscle weakness.

What organ does Ativan affect?

Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine that works in the brain to relieve symptoms of anxiety. Benzodiazepines are central nervous system (CNS) depressants, which are medicines that slow down the nervous system.