See the DrugPatentWatch profile for ativan

High doses of Ativan, a medication commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders, can have significant impacts on cognitive function. Ativan, the brand name for lorazepam, is a benzodiazepine that works by enhancing the effect of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain [1].

High doses of Ativan can lead to several cognitive impairments. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, high-dose benzodiazepine users exhibited significantly worse performance on tasks that required sustained attention and working memory compared to low-dose users [2]. Additionally, a study in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that long-term use of benzodiazepines, including Ativan, was associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease [3].

Moreover, high doses of Ativan can also cause anterograde amnesia, which is the inability to form new memories after the event of intoxication [4]. This can lead to significant impairments in daily functioning and cognitive performance.

It is important to note that the impact of high-dose Ativan on cognitive function can vary depending on several factors, including the individual's age, the duration of use, and the presence of other medical conditions [5]. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and consult with a healthcare provider if any cognitive impairments are experienced.

In summary, high doses of Ativan can significantly impact cognitive function, leading to impairments in sustained attention, working memory, and the formation of new memories. These impairments can have significant consequences on daily functioning and quality of life.

Sources:
[1] "Ativan" (lorazepam) DrugPatentWatch.com. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/ativan>.
[2] Barker, M. J., et al. "Cognitive function in long-term benzodiazepine users." Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, vol. 14, no. 4, 1994, pp. 263-271.
[3] Billioti de Gage, S., et al. "Benzodiazepine use and risk of Alzheimer's disease: case-control study." BMJ, vol. 346, 2013, f289.
[4] "Benzodiazepines: What You Need To Know." National Institute on Aging, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 11 Jan. 2022, <https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/benzodiazepines-what-you-need-know>.
[5] "Lorazepam." StatPearls [Internet]., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2022. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537053/>.