One of the possible side effects of Ativan is memory loss. Studies show that Ativan is more likely to cause memory loss than other types of benzodiazepine drugs. For patients taking Ativan, this can seem like a very scary risk. But what are the real chances of getting memory loss and can you avoid it?

How Ativan Causes Memory Loss
Despite what seems logical, we actually don’t build our memories while they occur. Rather, most of the process of building memories occurs while we sleep. When you take Ativan, you cause your body to quickly become relaxed and go to sleep. This can disrupt the process of forming memories. Since Ativan can also significantly slow your cognitive processes, the medicine may also impair your ability to form memories while awake too. This can lead to short term memory loss.

If Ativan is taken for long periods of time in high dosages, it can also lead to long term memory loss. However, studies show that Ativan does not actual impair your ability to recall memory. Instead, long term memory occurs because all the short term memory loss builds up.

Are You At Risk?
Memory loss is a rare side effect of Ativan and it is not likely to occur if you take the medicine as prescribed. Most cases of memory loss from Ativan occur when patients or people using the medicine recreationally take too much of the medicine. High dosages can severely impair your memory and even lead to complete blackouts.

Even if you take Ativan as prescribed, it is still common for Ativan to make you feel a bit sluggish, especially if you do not get enough sleep or keep a healthy diet and exercise while taking the medicine. Fatigue can impair your ability to remember things clearly. If you are constantly forgetting things or having complete blackouts, then you should talk to your doctor.

What if You Do Have Memory Loss?
If you start to become very forgetful or have blackouts, then your doctor should immediately be told. In most cases, the patient just needs to have the Ativan dosage reduced. In other cases, you may be told to take Ativan differently, such as only taking it before sleeping or taking several smaller dosages throughout the day.

There are some techniques to help you keep your memory clear while taking Ativan. Always make sure that you are getting enough sleep while taking the medicine. Just as importantly, it is important that you are sleeping on a set schedule so your body is able to adjust to the medicine. Eating a healthy diet can help improve your energy levels and memory. You should also avoid caffeine as it can make you crash and become fatigued. It is crucial that you avoid all alcohol while taking Ativan as this combination can drastically increase the side effects of Ativan and lead to memory impairment.