HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Does Long Term Usage Of Lorazepam-2mg Cause Any Side Effects Like Memory-loss?

I was looking for information about the effects of long term usage of the drug lorazepam. I am 85 years of age and have been taking a dose of 2mg a night to help sleep for the past 3 years and was concerned of memory loss and other side effects from long term usage. Without it I really have a hard time falling asleep and staying asleep. Should I have concerns of this with continued use of this drug?
Mon, 20 Mar 2017
Report Abuse
General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello,
Yes, any dose of lorazepam can cause memory problems, fatigue and most importantly it puts elderly patients at risk for falls. You will need to work closely with your doctor to taper off this medication. It cannot be stopped suddenly but you really need to find another way to get a good night's sleep. This medication is very dangerous in patients over 65 years of age.
Regards
I find this answer helpful

Note: Get a consultation booked to know more about aging related medical issues. Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 
Loading Online Doctors....
Does Long Term Usage Of Lorazepam-2mg Cause Any Side Effects Like Memory-loss?

Hello, Yes, any dose of lorazepam can cause memory problems, fatigue and most importantly it puts elderly patients at risk for falls. You will need to work closely with your doctor to taper off this medication. It cannot be stopped suddenly but you really need to find another way to get a good night s sleep. This medication is very dangerous in patients over 65 years of age. Regards