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Does Ativan (Lorazepam) Cause Weight Gain?

Table of Contents

Ativan is not linked to weight changes, but related drugs, such as Xanax, are often associated with a change in weight.

Article at a Glance:

Ativan (lorazepam) is not known to cause weight gain or weight loss.

However, related drugs like Xanax (alprazolam) are linked to weight changes.

Benzodiazepines like Ativan are often used alongside antidepressants and antipsychotics that can cause weight gain.

Withdrawal from benzos can cause weight loss.

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How Lorazepam Affects Weight

Ativan does not usually impact weight, and weight changes arenot a known side effectof the medication. However, other drugs that are prescribed alongside lorazepam can contribute to weight changes.

Ativan (Lorazepam) Weight Gain

Weight gain is not a known side effect of lorazepam. However, when used for mental health conditions, lorazepam may sometimes be used alongside other drug classes likeantidepressantsorantipsychotics, which have both been linked to weight gain. Someone may assume that lorazepam is causing their weight gain, but a different drug may be the culprit.

Does Ativan lose its effectiveness?

Do all benzos make you gain weight?

Does alprazolam cause weight gain?

Ativan (lorazepam) Side Effects

Ativan’s most common side effectsinclude:

  • Sedation
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Unsteadiness

Different Anti-Anxiety Drugs

Generally,recommended treatmentsfor anxiety includeantidepressantsandantipsychotics, which are both linked to weight gain. These treatments include:

  • Venlafaxine
  • Duloxetine
  • Paroxetine
  • Escitalopram
  • Sertraline
  • Fluoxetine
  • Mirtazapine
  • Quetiapine
  • Olanzapine

If you or a loved one are misusing anti-anxiety medication or can’t stop despite negative consequences, it may be a sign of asubstance use disorder. The Recovery Village can help. Our licensed clinicians and therapists can develop a treatment plan that addresses the substance use and any co-occurring anxiety you experience.Contact ustoday to discuss treatment options that can start you on the road to recovery.

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Sources

Drugs.com. “Lorazepam.” November 9, 2020. Accessed November 1, 2021.

Gafoor, Rafael; Booth, Helen P.; Gulliford, Martin C. “Antidepressant utilisation and incidence of weight gain during 10 years’ follow-up: population based cohort study.” The British Medical Journal (BMJ), May 16, 2018. Accessed November 1, 2021.

Dayabandara, Madhubhashinee; Hanwella, Raveen; Ratnatunga, Suhashini; et al. “Antipsychotic-associated weight gain: management strategies and impact on treatment adherence.” Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, August 22, 2017. Accessed November 1, 2021.

Puttegowda, Beeresha; Theodore, Joseph; Basappa, Ramesh; Nanjappa, Manjunath Cholenally. “Olanzapine Induced Dilated Cardiomyopathy,” The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences, March 2016. Accessed November 1, 2021.

Willems, Inge A.T.; Gorgels, Wim J.M.J.; Voshaar, Richard C. Oude; et al. “Tolerance to benzodiazepines among long-term users in primary care.” Oxford Academic Family Practice, August 2013. Accessed November 1, 2021.

Drugs.com. “Xanax.” September 1, 2021. Accessed November 1, 2021.

Anxiety & Depression Association of America. “Clinical Practice Review for GAD.” July 2, 2015. Accessed November 1, 2021.

Medical Disclaimer

The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.

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