Ativan with antidepressants: interactions

Many adults take an antidepressant for mood, anxiety or chronic pain. The combination with Ativan (Lorazepam) is common and, for most antidepressant classes, well tolerated. A few specific combinations require attention because of additive effects or shared metabolic pathways.

Antidepressant interaction landscape

SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, MAOIs and atypical antidepressants each interact differently. SSRIs are the most commonly co-prescribed and usually have minor or no clinically meaningful interaction with Lorazepam at 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg. MAOIs require special caution with many medications. Tricyclics can amplify cardiovascular and sedative effects of some Anti-anxiety Medications agents.

Practical guidance

According to the prescribing information for Lorazepam, any change in antidepressant therapy should be reviewed alongside Ativan dosing. Switching antidepressants — particularly to or from MAOIs — usually requires a washout period before resuming Ativan at the standard 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg schedule.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Ativan on an SSRI? ▾

For most SSRIs and most Anti-anxiety Medications agents, the combination is acceptable with normal monitoring. A few combinations require dose adjustment or alternative selection. The prescriber confirms based on the specific antidepressant and the active ingredient Lorazepam.

Are there antidepressants to avoid with Ativan? ▾

MAOIs are the antidepressant class most often flagged for caution with many medications. Other interactions depend on Lorazepam and the specific antidepressant; a pharmacist review is the practical safeguard at 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg.

More on Ativan

The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.