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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Severe Alzheimer's, Really Declining, On Ativan. Seems To Make Opposite Reaction. What To Do ?

My mother, 79 yrs. old has severe Alzheimer's and living with my Father in a small town. She's really declining and is on some Ativan and tonight they have given her an injection as she can't settle down or sleep, I see not being able to sit still is a side effect? Must jump up every minute,
this Ativan seems to have the opposite effect on her...what else could she possibly take if not Ativan.... local hospital and Dr. are at a loss...Thanks
Wed, 20 Nov 2013
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Addiction Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
Hi,

Her restlessness is not a side effect of Ativan. Most probably the dose of Ativan that she was given was not strong enough for her. Usually 4 mg can be given safely in a single intramuscular or intravenous dose to a person who is otherwise physically fit. If hiking the dose of Ativan is not possible, then she may need an additional agent to calm her down. Haloperidol can be used either singly or with Ativan on days when she is very agitated.

Hope this helps her. Best wishes.
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Severe Alzheimer's, Really Declining, On Ativan. Seems To Make Opposite Reaction. What To Do ?

Hi, Her restlessness is not a side effect of Ativan. Most probably the dose of Ativan that she was given was not strong enough for her. Usually 4 mg can be given safely in a single intramuscular or intravenous dose to a person who is otherwise physically fit. If hiking the dose of Ativan is not possible, then she may need an additional agent to calm her down. Haloperidol can be used either singly or with Ativan on days when she is very agitated. Hope this helps her. Best wishes.