I've been having insomnia for the past 5 nights. i've been taking 0.5 - 1mg of ativan (lorazepam) and it hasn't helped at all. just makes me way more tired the next day because of no sleep. could ativan (lorazepam) cause it?

Yes: Some people do not get relief from many sleep aids. You should consider having a sleep study to determine the exact cause of your insomnia as this will help guide physicians to the proper treatment whether medications or other treatments that are availabe. Act now as lack of sleep can cause both phsical and mental health problems in a relatively short period of time.

Yes: Ativan (lorazepam) and the anxiety/ sleepers in general can cause sleepiness. Best to be evaluated by you doctor to look for the etiology of your insomnia

Ativan (lorazepam): I doubt that ativan (lorazepam) is keeping you awake, but on the other hand it is not a sleeping pill either. It is a tranquilizer that relieves anxiety and may help some people fall asleep easier. You must avoid alcohol,caffeine and nicotine, and late night meals while you're having trouble sleeping. Discuss your insomnia with your MD who may refer you to a sleep specialist or possibly order short term meds

Yes.: The ativan is an anti-anxiety medication which can cause daytime sleepiness and it is addictive. Consider starting Ambien or another hypnagogic (sleep) medication such as Lunesta (eszopiclone). Only take this when prescribed and monitored by your doctor.

Insomnia: The medication has different effects on different people, but if you keep a log, or sleep diaries, you can get more accurate information about what might affect your sleep and daytime fatigue. Your doctor may want to prescribe a hypnotic med, or one of the 2 low dose antidepressants that are helpful with sleep. But the longterm answer for insomnia is usually Cognitive Behavioral Treatment for Inso

Yes: For some patients, there can be a hang over effect which may cause increased sedation after taking Ativan (lorazepam).

Insomnia: You deserve good sleep to function effectively. Ativan is not specific medication for anxiety, it can cause tiredness. Let the wise man within you reflect stresses causing sleep problem and discuss with Psychiatrist about Anxiety, Depression, Therapy and Medication such as Restoril or Ambien (zolpidem). Do Yoga in evening. Before sleeping, do Breathing and Music Relaxation, Visual imagery, and Meditation.

Doubtful: It is doubtful that Ativan (lorazepam) is causing difficulty with sleep but you always test it out by not taking the Ativan (lorazepam) for a few nights. There are so many possibilities for insomnia. You can try the usual things advised for sleep hygiene and try to create a relaxing atmosphere before sleep. Over the counter Melatonin sometimes helps as does warm milk. Of course you can talk to a psychiatrist.

Suggestions: First, stop the Ativan (lorazepam) completely, as it is likely you have developed tolerance. Secondly uncover why you have insomnia: emotional, sleep disorder, naps during day, restless leg syndrome, etc. If you feel you need a sleep aide, try OTC melatonin. Recommend focus on aerobic exercise, healthy diet, and stress management.

It could.: Please keep a diary of your sleep patterns without drugs for a wk. then discuss them with your provider. Include in the journal your daily moods( anxiety, depression) and stressors .