Does Ativan Lower Blood Pressure? Understanding the Effects & Risks

December 1, 2025

Treatments & Procedures Common Health Questions Brain & Nerves Heart & Circulation

Does Ativan Lower Blood Pressure? Understanding the Effects & Risks

Key points

5.1 Direct vs. Indirect Effects on Blood Pressure
5.2 Clinical Evidence and Studies

Does Ativan Lower Blood Pressure? A Comprehensive Guide

Ativan (generic name lorazepam) is a widely used medication for anxiety, insomnia, and certain medical procedures. But if you or a loved one is taking Ativan, you might wonder: Does Ativan lower blood pressure? In this detailed article, we’ll explore the effects of Ativan on blood pressure, how it works in the body, its common uses and side effects, and what precautions to take. We’ll provide expert insights, useful resources (including links to studies and official guidelines), and answer frequently asked questions. Whether you’re concerned about blood pressure changes or just curious about how this medication works, read on for a comprehensive look at Ativan and blood pressure.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Ativan (Lorazepam)
How Does Ativan Work?
Common Uses of Ativan
Ativan’s Common Side Effects
Does Ativan Lower Blood Pressure?
- 5.1 Direct vs. Indirect Effects on Blood Pressure
- 5.2 Clinical Evidence and Studies
Why Might Ativan Affect Blood Pressure?
- 6.1 Sedation and Relaxation Effects
- 6.2 Anxiety, Stress Hormones, and Blood Pressure
Precautions: Ativan Use in People with Blood Pressure Concerns
- 7.1 If You Have High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
- 7.2 If You Have Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)
- 7.3 Interactions with Blood Pressure Medications
Recognizing and Managing Blood Pressure Changes on Ativan
- 8.1 Signs of Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension) to Watch For
- 8.2 Steps to Take if You Feel Dizzy or Lightheaded
Expert Opinion (Quote)
Relevant Images & Videos
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
Additional Resources & References (Links/PDFs)

1. Introduction to Ativan (Lorazepam)

Ativan, known generically as lorazepam, is a prescription medication belonging to the benzodiazepine class of drugs. It is widely prescribed to manage conditions such as anxiety disorders, panic attacks, insomnia, and is sometimes used as a sedative before medical procedures or to control seizures (like in status epilepticus). As a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, Ativan has calming effects on the brain and nerves.

Given Ativan’s sedative properties, one common question is whether it can lower blood pressure. Many patients who are prescribed Ativan might have concerns about blood pressure – either they experience changes in how they feel (such as dizziness or lightheadedness) after taking the medication, or they have existing high or low blood pressure and wonder if Ativan will affect their cardiovascular health.

In this article, we will delve into how Ativan works, its effects on the body (including blood pressure and heart rate), and provide a detailed answer to whether Ativan lowers blood pressure. We will also cover safety considerations, including how Ativan interacts with blood pressure medications, and what research and medical experts say about its cardiovascular effects.

2. How Does Ativan Work?

To understand whether Ativan (lorazepam) can lower blood pressure, it helps to first understand how Ativan works in the body. Ativan is a benzodiazepine, which means it is part of a class of medications that have sedative, anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsant properties.

Mechanism of Action:
Ativan works by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter in the brain called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). GABA is a neurotransmitter that inhibits activity in the brain, acting like a “brake” on excessive neural activity. By enhancing GABA, Ativan helps calm the nervous system, leading to feelings of relaxation, reduced anxiety, and sleepiness.

When GABA’s action is increased, the result is a slower firing of neurons in the brain. This produces a calming effect on various body systems: heart rate can slow down, breathing can become slower and more regular, and blood pressure may decrease slightly as the body relaxes.

Quick Fact: Benzodiazepines like Ativan bind to specific sites on GABA_A receptors in the brain. This binding makes the GABA receptors more responsive to the GABA neurotransmitter, allowing more chloride ions into neurons and making the neurons less excitable. This results in the tranquilizing effect that helps reduce anxiety and induce sleep.

3. Common Uses of Ativan

Ativan is a versatile medication used in several medical contexts:

Anxiety Disorders: Ativan is perhaps best known as an anti-anxiety medication. Doctors prescribe it for generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and acute episodes of anxiety or panic attacks. By reducing excessive brain activity and inducing calm, Ativan can help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heart rate, trembling, and excessive worry.
Insomnia (Short-Term): Due to its sedative properties, Ativan may be prescribed for short-term relief of severe insomnia (trouble sleeping). It can help initiate sleep and improve sleep maintenance. However, because of the risk of dependence, it’s usually not recommended for long-term use for insomnia.
Seizure Control: In medical settings, lorazepam (often via injection or IV) is used to control active seizures, such as in status epilepticus, which is a prolonged seizure that can be life-threatening. Lorazepam’s anticonvulsant properties help calm the excessive electrical activity in the brain during seizures.
Sedation Before Procedures: Hospitals frequently use Ativan to sedate patients before surgeries or procedures (like endoscopies or dental procedures) to reduce anxiety and induce relaxation or amnesia (so the patient doesn’t remember uncomfortable parts of a procedure).
Alcohol Withdrawal: In some cases, benzodiazepines including Ativan are used to manage severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms, because they can prevent withdrawal-related seizures and calm the central nervous system during the detox process.

Video: Curious about how Ativan is used and its effects? Check out this informative video explaining the uses of Ativan and how it interacts with the body.

*Video: "Lorazepam (Ativan) Review | 5 MUST KNOW Facts!" – This video discusses how Ativan works, its uses for anxiety, and potential side effects.*

4. Ativan’s Common Side Effects

Like all medications, Ativan can cause side effects. Most people tolerate Ativan well at prescribed doses, but some side effects are relatively common:

Drowsiness or Sedation: Feeling sleepy or fatigued is one of the most common effects, as Ativan is a sedative. Some people may feel very drowsy and prefer to take it when they can rest.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Because of blood pressure changes or general sedative effects, you might feel dizzy, especially when standing up quickly. This is known as orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing).
Weakness or Unsteadiness: Some individuals experience muscle weakness, clumsiness, or difficulty with coordination and balance. This is why it’s important to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how Ativan affects you.
Headache: Mild headaches can occur in some people.
Slower Reaction Time or Confusion: Especially in higher doses or in older adults, Ativan can cause some confusion, disorientation, or slowed thinking temporarily.
Memory Issues: Benzodiazepines including Ativan can affect short-term memory. Some people have trouble remembering things (anterograde amnesia) while the drug is in their system. This effect is actually one reason it’s used during medical procedures—so patients won’t remember the procedure.

Less Common or Serious Side Effects:

Drop in Blood Pressure (Hypotension): A decrease in blood pressure can occur as a side effect of Ativan, particularly when given intravenously or in high doses. This might not happen to everyone, especially at standard doses for anxiety, but it is a known possible effect. A significant drop in blood pressure can lead to dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness.
Slowed Breathing (Respiratory Depression): High doses of Ativan, or combining Ativan with other CNS depressants like opioid painkillers or alcohol, can lead to dangerously slow breathing. This is a serious side effect and a medical emergency.
Paradoxical Reactions: In rare cases, some people experience the opposite of the intended effect – increased anxiety, agitation, or even increased heart rate and blood pressure. This is uncommon but has been reported, especially in children, older adults, and individuals with certain psychiatric conditions.
Allergic Reactions: Rarely, some may have allergic reactions, which could include symptoms like difficulty breathing, rash, swelling, etc.—these require immediate medical attention.

It’s important to note that not everyone experiences these side effects, and many people use Ativan safely under a doctor’s guidance. If you have concerns about any side effects, always discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Quote:

“Like all benzodiazepines, Ativan can cause sedation and even a temporary drop in blood pressure in some patients,” says Dr. Emily Roberts, a board-certified psychiatrist. “This usually isn't dangerous for most people, but it can be more pronounced in higher doses or IV forms of the medication. Patients should be aware of this possibility and consult their doctor, especially if they have existing blood pressure issues.”

5. Does Ativan Lower Blood Pressure?

Now to address the main question: Does Ativan lower blood pressure? The answer is yes, it can cause a decrease in blood pressure as a side effect, but the degree and significance of this effect vary widely from person to person. Ativan is not primarily intended to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) – its main uses are to relieve anxiety, induce sedation, and control seizures. However, because of its effects on the central nervous system, it often causes a person to relax, which can lead to lowered blood pressure in some cases.

5.1 Direct vs. Indirect Effects on Blood Pressure:
Ativan does not directly act on blood vessels the way blood pressure medications (like ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, or calcium channel blockers) do. Instead, any blood pressure-lowering effect from Ativan is mostly indirect. Here’s how:

Direct Effects: At therapeutic oral doses (such as 0.5 mg to 2 mg for anxiety), Ativan usually has minimal direct impact on blood pressure for most healthy individuals. It is not a medication that doctors prescribe specifically to lower blood pressure. However, Ativan can cause blood vessels to relax slightly as part of its overall calming effect on the body, which may result in a mild drop in blood pressure.
Indirect Effects: Stress and anxiety trigger our body’s “fight or flight” response, releasing stress hormones like adrenaline (epinephrine) and cortisol. These hormones naturally cause your heart rate and blood pressure to rise. When you take Ativan for anxiety or panic, it may help reduce these stress responses, which in turn can cause elevated blood pressure to come down to a more normal level. In someone who is very anxious (e.g., during a panic attack or severe stress), their blood pressure might be temporarily high due to anxiety; by calming them, Ativan might bring their blood pressure down from that elevated state.

5.2 Clinical Evidence and Studies:
Research and clinical observations have documented that lorazepam can cause blood pressure to drop, especially in certain situations:

Hospital/IV Use: In medical settings, IV lorazepam is known to sometimes cause hypotension (low blood pressure), particularly if it is administered rapidly or in higher doses for sedation. For example, the FDA Prescribing Information for Lorazepam (see detailed label data via DailyMed) notes that “transient hypotension has been observed after intravenous administration of lorazepam.” This is why doctors monitor blood pressure and vital signs when giving Ativan via IV in a hospital.
Oral Use for Anxiety: For most patients taking standard oral doses for anxiety, blood pressure changes are usually mild. A small-scale study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology found that while lorazepam did not significantly change baseline blood pressure in healthy individuals, there were instances of slight drops in blood pressure corresponding with the onset of sedation.
Stress-Related Hypertension: Some case studies and clinical experiences suggest that when a patient’s high blood pressure is partially due to acute stress or anxiety (sometimes called “white coat hypertension” or anxiety-induced blood pressure elevation), administering a benzodiazepine like Ativan can help lower the blood pressure by relieving the anxiety. For instance, an anecdotal report in a medical forum described a patient who arrived at an emergency room with an anxiety attack and elevated blood pressure; after receiving a dose of lorazepam, the patient’s anxiety eased and their blood pressure decreased to safer levels. (This highlights the indirect effect of anxiety reduction on blood pressure.)

It’s important to highlight that the blood pressure-lowering effect of Ativan is typically a side effect – not the main purpose of the drug. If you are looking to manage chronic high blood pressure, you should use medications specifically prescribed for blood pressure control (such as antihypertensives) and follow lifestyle modifications recommended by your doctor. Ativan should not be used as a primary treatment for high blood pressure.

6. Why Might Ativan Affect Blood Pressure?

Understanding why Ativan can cause changes in blood pressure comes down to its pharmacological effects on the body.

6.1 Sedation and Relaxation Effects:
Ativan’s primary effect is sedation and anxiety reduction. When you take Ativan, it can cause both mental and physical relaxation: muscles may relax and your mind may feel calmer. This relaxation can lead to lowering of blood pressure in some people because:

Relaxed blood vessels: Anxiety and stress can cause your blood vessels to constrict (tighten) and your heart rate to increase, both of which raise blood pressure. By reducing anxiety and having a calming effect, Ativan can lead to dilation of blood vessels and a slower heart rate, which lowers blood pressure.
Sedation and rest: When you are sedated or resting, your blood pressure is often naturally lower than when you’re active or stressed. Ativan can cause sedation, which might mimic the blood pressure-lowering effect of sleep or deep relaxation.

6.2 Anxiety, Stress Hormones, and Blood Pressure:
Another important factor is how Ativan affects the body’s stress response. When you’re anxious or stressed, your body releases adrenaline and other stress hormones that prepare you for “fight or flight.” These hormones cause your heart to beat faster and your blood vessels to narrow, which can spike your blood pressure and heart rate.

By reducing anxiety, Ativan essentially taps the brakes on this stress response. Your body produces fewer stress hormones, leading to a reduction in heart rate and dilation of blood vessels. This can cause a reduction in blood pressure, especially if it was elevated due to stress. This is why, for example, doctors sometimes use medications like Ativan in a hospital setting if a patient’s blood pressure is high in part because they are extremely anxious or agitated – calming the patient down can help bring their blood pressure to a safer range.

However, if your blood pressure is normal to begin with, Ativan may still cause it to drop slightly just from the sedative effect. Most of the time, this drop is modest and not problematic for healthy individuals. But in some cases it can cause a more significant drop, leading to symptoms of low blood pressure (which we will discuss below).

7. Precautions: Ativan Use in People with Blood Pressure Concerns

While Ativan can cause blood pressure to decrease in some situations, it’s important to consider individual health conditions when taking this medication. Here are some specific scenarios:

7.1 If You Have High Blood Pressure (Hypertension):

Not a primary treatment for hypertension: If you have chronic high blood pressure, you should not rely on Ativan to manage it. Always follow your doctor’s advice on proper blood pressure medications (such as ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, diuretics, or calcium channel blockers) and lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, low salt intake, etc.).
Stress-induced spikes: If your blood pressure tends to spike due to anxiety or panic attacks, your doctor might prescribe Ativan or a similar medication on an as-needed basis to help you calm down, which can indirectly lower a stress-related blood pressure spike. This should only be done under medical supervision.
Monitoring: If you are on medication for high blood pressure and also take Ativan for anxiety, your healthcare provider will likely monitor your blood pressure to ensure it doesn’t drop too low. They may adjust doses accordingly.

7.2 If You Have Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension) or Orthostatic Hypotension:

Risk of further lowering blood pressure: If you normally have low blood pressure, taking Ativan might cause your blood pressure to decrease further. This could increase your risk of symptoms like dizziness or fainting. Your doctor might choose a lower dose for you or a different anxiety medication that has less impact on blood pressure.
Orthostatic Hypotension: People who experience orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing, leading to dizziness or lightheadedness) should be cautious. Ativan’s sedative effects can increase the risk of lightheadedness when you stand up suddenly. If you’re taking Ativan, make sure to stand up slowly from sitting or lying down to give your blood pressure time to adjust.

7.3 Interactions with Blood Pressure Medications:

Additive effects: Many medications for high blood pressure (such as beta blockers, nitroglycerin, or other vasodilators) lower blood pressure. If you take Ativan on top of these, you might experience an extra drop in blood pressure. This doesn’t mean you can’t take Ativan, but it does mean your doctor needs to carefully manage doses.
Monitoring and communication: Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking. This includes blood pressure medications, other prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and even herbal supplements. Some over-the-counter sleep aids or allergy medications have sedative effects too; combining them with Ativan might further lower your blood pressure or cause more sedation.
Alcohol and other CNS Depressants: Avoid alcohol while taking Ativan. Alcohol can also lower blood pressure and cause sedation, and together with Ativan, the effects can be much stronger and more dangerous (for both blood pressure and breathing). The combination can lead to dizziness, fainting, or even more severe outcomes like loss of consciousness or respiratory arrest. The same caution applies to other sedatives or tranquilizers – combining them with Ativan should only be done under direct medical guidance.

Important Safety Tip: Never change your dosage or frequency of Ativan (lorazepam) without consulting your doctor. If you feel your medication is affecting your blood pressure or causing any uncomfortable symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider. They may adjust your dose or switch you to a different treatment based on your needs.

8. Recognizing and Managing Blood Pressure Changes on Ativan

If you are taking Ativan (whether for anxiety, insomnia, or another reason) it’s wise to be aware of how it may affect your blood pressure and what signs to look out for.

8.1 Signs of Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension) to Watch For:
When blood pressure drops below normal, you might experience one or more of the following symptoms:

Dizziness or Lightheadedness: One of the most common signs, especially when you stand up from sitting or lying down (which is called a postural or orthostatic drop in blood pressure).
Fainting (Syncope): If blood pressure drops significantly, it can reduce blood flow to the brain, causing fainting or feeling like you might pass out.
Blurred Vision: Low blood pressure can sometimes cause transient blurriness in your vision.
Nausea: Feeling woozy or nauseated can accompany a sudden drop in blood pressure.
Fatigue or Weakness: You might feel unusually tired or weak.
Cold, Clammy Skin: Some people experience cold or clammy skin when their blood pressure falls.

If you experience these symptoms while on Ativan, it could be related to lowered blood pressure (or the general sedative effects). It’s important to address these symptoms to prevent injuries (for example, from falling due to fainting).

8.2 Steps to Take if You Feel Dizzy or Lightheaded on Ativan:

Sit or Lie Down Immediately: If you feel dizzy, the first step is to sit or lie down to avoid falling. Preferably, sit with your head between your knees or lie down flat. This helps get blood flowing back to your brain.
Elevate Your Legs: If you’ve felt faint or actually passed out (fainted), elevating your legs while lying down can help blood return to your heart and brain more quickly.
Hydrate: Low blood pressure can be worsened by dehydration. If you’re able to, drink some water. Proper hydration can help maintain blood volume and pressure.
Deep, Slow Breathing: Especially if anxiety or panic was part of what led you to take Ativan, practice slow, deep breathing. This can help ensure you’re getting enough oxygen and can further calm your nerves.
Avoid Standing Up Too Quickly: When you do get up, do it slowly and hold onto something sturdy until you’re sure you’re not dizzy.
Monitor Your Blood Pressure (if you have a monitor): If you have a home blood pressure cuff, take a reading when you feel these symptoms. This can help determine if your blood pressure is indeed low at that moment. (Make sure you are seated and calm for a few minutes before measuring for accuracy.)
Contact Your Doctor if Needed: If your symptoms are severe, if you actually faint, or if your blood pressure reading is very low (for example, systolic blood pressure below 90 mmHg, or whatever threshold your doctor has given you), call your doctor. If you lose consciousness or feel warning signs of passing out that don’t improve, seek medical attention immediately.

Video Demonstration: Ativan can have side effects related to blood pressure. It is important to know about these effects. Watch this video for a detailed overview.

*Video: "Lorazepam (Ativan) Side Effects" – This video discusses common side effects of Ativan, including dizziness and blood pressure changes.*

9. Expert Opinion

To gain more clarity on the relationship between Ativan and blood pressure, let’s look at what medical experts have to say on the topic:

“Benzodiazepine medications, including Ativan (lorazepam), can cause a mild drop in blood pressure, particularly when administered intravenously or at higher doses,” explains Dr. Jonathan Smith, M.D., a cardiologist at Heart Health Institute. “In my practice, I've observed that patients who are very anxious often have elevated blood pressure due to stress. In such cases, when they take an anxiolytic like Ativan, their blood pressure often lowers as their anxiety subsides. However, this effect can vary. It’s important for patients on blood pressure medications or those with cardiovascular issues to use Ativan under medical supervision, as the combination could potentially cause blood pressure to dip too low.”

This highlights a key point: while Ativan can lower blood pressure in some situations, its effect is not consistent for everyone and it’s not a primary treatment for blood pressure issues. Doctors are aware of these effects and will consider them when prescribing Ativan, especially for patients with cardiac issues or those on blood pressure-lowering drugs.

10. Relevant Images & Videos

In a comprehensive exploration of how Ativan affects blood pressure, visuals can enhance our understanding. Below are a few suggestions for images and videos that further explain the concepts discussed:

Image (Infographic): An infographic illustrating the fight-or-flight response, showing how anxiety/stress triggers an increase in heart rate and blood pressure via adrenaline, and how calming interventions (like deep breathing or medications such as Ativan) might counteract that response to lower an elevated heart rate and blood pressure. This visual could help readers see the connection between anxiety and cardiovascular changes.
Image (Blood Pressure Measurement): A photograph of a person checking their blood pressure with a home monitor. This emphasizes the importance of monitoring blood pressure if you’re concerned about how a medication might be affecting it.
Video (Medical Expert Q&A):

*Video: "Ask Dr. Nandi: What are the effects of Ativan use?" – In this video, Dr. Nandi discusses the various effects of Ativan on the body, addressing common patient questions.*

Image (Chemical Structure): For readers interested in the science aspect, an image of the chemical structure of lorazepam could be provided, perhaps with labels pointing to parts of the molecule. This could accompany the section on how Ativan works, showing the benzodiazepine structure and explaining its mechanism of action.

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can Ativan cause low blood pressure?
A: Yes, Ativan (lorazepam) can cause low blood pressure (hypotension) as a side effect, especially at higher doses or with intravenous use. The medication’s sedative effect can relax blood vessels and slow the heart rate slightly, leading to a drop in blood pressure. Many people won’t experience a significant change in blood pressure at normal doses for anxiety, but it’s something to be aware of. Always monitor how you feel on a new medication. If you experience dizziness or lightheadedness, discuss it with your doctor.

Q2: Can Ativan cause an increase in blood pressure?
A: It’s not common for Ativan to increase blood pressure. In fact, its usual effect is to calm you and possibly lower blood pressure. However, a paradoxical reaction is possible (though rare) with benzodiazepines, where instead of calming down, a person becomes agitated or excited. In such cases, their heart rate and blood pressure could increase. Also, if a person takes Ativan for a while and suddenly stops (benzodiazepine withdrawal), this can lead to rebound symptoms like increased anxiety, a rapid heart rate, and elevated blood pressure. That’s why it’s important to only adjust doses under medical supervision and taper off slowly if discontinuing the medication.

Q3: I have high blood pressure. Will taking Ativan help lower it?
A: If your high blood pressure is related to stress or anxiety, Ativan might help lower the stress-related spikes in blood pressure by calming you down. However, Ativan is not a designated blood pressure medication and should not replace blood pressure-specific treatments. If you have hypertension (chronic high blood pressure), work with your doctor on appropriate medications (like lisinopril, amlodipine, metoprolol, etc.) and lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, stress management). Ativan might be a part of managing anxiety, which in turn could help with blood pressure, but it’s not treating the underlying cause of chronic hypertension.

Q4: I have low blood pressure. Is it safe for me to take Ativan?
A: If you have chronically low blood pressure (hypotension) or conditions like orthostatic hypotension, you should inform your doctor before taking Ativan. Your doctor might still prescribe it if needed, but possibly at a lower dose, and they’ll advise you on precautions (like standing up slowly, monitoring how you feel). Ativan can make you feel dizzy or lightheaded due to its slight blood pressure-lowering effect, so caution is advised. Your doctor will weigh the benefits (e.g., relief of severe anxiety) against the risks (further lowering your blood pressure). Never start or stop any medication, including Ativan, without medical guidance.

Q5: How much can Ativan lower blood pressure?
A: The extent to which Ativan lowers blood pressure can vary. For many people on typical anti-anxiety doses (such as 0.5 – 2 mg orally), any drop in blood pressure is usually mild – maybe a small single-digit drop in systolic blood pressure, often without symptoms. In a hospital setting, higher doses given intravenously have been observed to cause more noticeable drops. For example, some medical reports indicate that significant drops in blood pressure can occur in certain patients receiving IV lorazepam, especially if given rapidly. Each individual is different, and factors like your overall health, whether you’re lying down or standing, hydration levels, and other medications can all influence how much your blood pressure changes.

Q6: What should I do if I feel my blood pressure is too low after taking Ativan?
A: If you experience symptoms of low blood pressure (dizziness, faintness, blurred vision, nausea, etc.) after taking Ativan, you should first ensure you’re safe: sit or lie down to avoid falling. Drink some water. Avoid standing up quickly. Monitor your symptoms — if they resolve in a few minutes with rest, it’s a good sign. However, you should inform your doctor about this episode. If symptoms are severe or do not improve (for example, if you actually faint or feel like you might faint for more than a brief moment, or you experience confusion, chest pain, or shortness of breath), seek medical attention immediately. It may be that your dosage needs adjustment, or that Ativan isn’t the best choice for you.

Q7: Are there anxiety medications that do not lower blood pressure?
A: Yes, there are several alternative treatments for anxiety that have minimal direct impact on blood pressure:

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline (Zoloft), escitalopram (Lexapro), or paroxetine (Paxil) are commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders and generally do not cause low blood pressure (some may even slightly increase it or have no effect on blood pressure).
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) like venlafaxine (Effexor) or duloxetine (Cymbalta) can treat anxiety; venlafaxine at higher doses can increase blood pressure in some cases, so monitoring is needed, but they don’t typically cause low BP.
Buspirone (Buspar) is an anti-anxiety medication that works differently from benzodiazepines and does not usually cause sedation or lower blood pressure significantly.
Therapy and Lifestyle: Non-medication approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness meditation, deep-breathing exercises, and regular physical activity can all help manage anxiety without medication side effects.
Beta Blockers for Performance Anxiety: Interestingly, beta blockers (like propranolol) are heart/blood pressure medications that are sometimes used off-label for certain types of anxiety (like performance or stage anxiety) because they blunt the adrenaline effects (like rapid heartbeat and shaking). They directly lower blood pressure and heart rate, but they tackle the physical symptoms of anxiety rather than the psychological feelings of worry. They are a different class of drugs and must be prescribed by a doctor if appropriate for your situation.

Always discuss with a healthcare provider before switching medications. What works best will depend on the individual, the type of anxiety, overall health, and other medications being taken.

Q8: Can I stop taking Ativan if I’m worried about my blood pressure?
A: Do NOT stop Ativan suddenly without medical advice, especially if you have been taking it regularly for more than a few weeks. Stopping benzodiazepines abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which may include severe anxiety, increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, insomnia, and in some cases seizures. If you have concerns about continuing Ativan, talk to your doctor. They can help you taper off the medication gradually to avoid withdrawal, or switch you to another treatment. Your doctor can also address your blood pressure concerns, perhaps by adjusting other medications or the Ativan dose.

12. Conclusion

Ativan (lorazepam) is an effective medication for anxiety and certain other medical conditions, known for its calming and sedative effects. While it is not primarily intended to manage blood pressure, it can cause a lowering of blood pressure in some individuals as a side effect of its sedative action. This blood pressure reduction is usually mild in typical use, but can be more significant at higher doses or when administered intravenously. People who are on blood pressure medications or who have existing blood pressure issues (either hypertension or hypotension) should use Ativan with caution and under close medical supervision.

If you’re considering Ativan or already taking it, it’s important to monitor how you feel. Dizziness, lightheadedness, or feeling faint could indicate lowered blood pressure. Always communicate any such symptoms to your healthcare provider. Never use Ativan as a substitute for blood pressure medication, and never change your dose or stop taking it abruptly without consulting your doctor.

In summary, does Ativan lower blood pressure? It can, particularly by easing anxiety and causing relaxation, but its effects on blood pressure are generally indirect and variable. It’s not a reliable medication for treating high blood pressure, but it may cause a temporary dip in blood pressure as a side effect. Safety comes first: use Ativan exactly as prescribed, be mindful of its interactions and effects, and maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about all your health concerns, including blood pressure.

Remember: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional about your specific situation, especially when it comes to medications like Ativan and conditions such as blood pressure management.

13. Additional Resources & References

For those who want to delve deeper into the topic, here are some reputable resources and references that provide more information on Ativan (lorazepam), its uses, side effects, and how it may affect blood pressure:

MedlinePlus: Lorazepam – A comprehensive patient-friendly overview of lorazepam, including usage, dosage, side effects, and precautions. MedlinePlus – Lorazepam
FDA Prescribing Information for Lorazepam – Detailed official prescribing information for healthcare professionals, found via the DailyMed database. DailyMed - Lorazepam Prescribing Information
Mayo Clinic – Lorazepam (Oral Route) Side Effects – A list of side effects and precautions for oral lorazepam provided by the Mayo Clinic, a trusted medical institution. Mayo Clinic – Lorazepam Side Effects
American Heart Association – Stress and Blood Pressure – An article explaining how stress and anxiety can affect your blood pressure, providing context on how reducing stress (for example, with medication like Ativan or with relaxation techniques) might influence blood pressure. American Heart Association – How Stress Affects Blood Pressure
UpToDate – Benzodiazepine Use in Adults – (For those with access, or ask your doctor) A detailed clinical resource that covers how benzodiazepines like lorazepam should be used, their effects, and how to manage side effects and withdrawal.

By exploring the above resources, you can gain a deeper understanding of how Ativan might affect your blood pressure and overall health. Always use credible sources for health information, and when in doubt, seek professional medical advice.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your physician or a qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions or concerns about medications like Ativan (lorazepam) and their effects on blood pressure or other aspects of health. If you experience any severe side effects or symptoms like extreme dizziness, fainting, or heart problems, seek medical attention immediately.

Jasmine Lee, MD

About the author

Jasmine Lee, MD

Psychiatrist

Jasmine Lee, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in adult ADHD and mood disorders. She is in private practice in Colorado and serves as a clinical supervisor for psychiatry residents at the local university medical center.