Therapeutic Response for lorazepam (Ativan) {Ans: decrease anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia}Action of lorazepam (Ativan) {Ans: It increases the effectiveness of GABA, especially in the limbic system and the reticular formation. GABA is an amino acid that acts as a neurotransmitter. Its function is to decrease neuron activity and inhibit nerve cells from overfiring.}Adverse Effects from lorazepam (Ativan) {Ans: CNS: Dizziness, drowsiness CV: Orthostatic hypotension, ECG changes, tachycardia, apnea, CARDIAC ARREST EENT: Blurred vision}Contraindications -- lorazepam (Ativan) {Ans: Pregnancy (D), breastfeeding Hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines, benzyl alcohol Closed-angle glaucoma, psychosis, history of drug abuse, COPD, sleep apnea}Therapeutic Uses for lorazepam (Ativan) {Ans: Anxiety; irritability; insomnia}Medication Administration -- lorazepam (Ativan) {Ans: Can be crushed if patient is unable to swallow medication whole Dry mouth: gum, hard candy, sips of water Give largest dose before bedtime GI symptoms: give with food, milk}