As a loving dog owner, seeing your furry friend struggle with anxiety or seizures can be heart-wrenching. Ativan (lorazepam) is a prescription medication that veterinarians may recommend to help manage these conditions in dogs.
This comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed information about Ativan for dogs, including a dosage chart by weight, safety considerations, and answers to frequently asked questions to help you make informed decisions about your pet’s health.
Key Takeaways
- Ativan (lorazepam) is a prescription benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety, phobias, and seizures in dogs
- The typical dosage for anxiety ranges from 0.01-0.045 mg/lb up to three times daily
- For status epilepticus, a single dose of 0.09 mg/lb is administered by a veterinarian
- Ativan may be safer than other benzodiazepines for dogs with liver impairment
- Common side effects include increased hunger, lethargy, and loss of coordination
- Never stop Ativan abruptly after prolonged use – wean your dog off gradually under veterinary supervision
- In case of overdose, contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately
What is Ativan For Dogs?
Ativan® (lorazepam) is a benzodiazepine medication that veterinarians may prescribe as an alternative to more commonly used medications like Valium®. This versatile medication can help treat several conditions in dogs, primarily anxiety disorders and seizures.
Unlike some other benzodiazepines, Ativan doesn’t put as much strain on the liver, making it a potentially better option for dogs with liver impairment. The medication works by enhancing the effects of GABA, a neurotransmitter that inhibits brain activity, producing calming and anti-seizure effects.
Ativan Dosage For Dogs
For treating anxiety and phobias in dogs, the typical dosage ranges from 0.01 to 0.045 mg per pound of body weight (0.022 to 0.099 mg per kilogram), up to three times daily as needed.
Important Note: Ativan is available by prescription only. Never administer this medication to your dog without explicit approval and dosage instructions from your veterinarian.
Ativan Dosage Chart for Dogs By Weight
| Weight (lbs) | Weight (kg) | Low Dose (mg) | Typical Dose (mg) | High Dose (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 lbs | 4.5 kg | 0.1 mg | 0.2 mg | 0.45 mg |
| 20 lbs | 9.1 kg | 0.2 mg | 0.4 mg | 0.9 mg |
| 30 lbs | 13.6 kg | 0.3 mg | 0.6 mg | 1.35 mg |
| 40 lbs | 18.1 kg | 0.4 mg | 0.8 mg | 1.8 mg |
| 50 lbs | 22.7 kg | 0.5 mg | 1.0 mg | 2.25 mg |
| 60 lbs | 27.2 kg | 0.6 mg | 1.2 mg | 2.7 mg |
| 70 lbs | 31.8 kg | 0.7 mg | 1.4 mg | 3.15 mg |
| 80 lbs | 36.3 kg | 0.8 mg | 1.6 mg | 3.6 mg |
| 90 lbs | 40.8 kg | 0.9 mg | 1.8 mg | 4.05 mg |
| 100 lbs | 45.4 kg | 1.0 mg | 2.0 mg | 4.5 mg |
Ativan Dosage for Status Epilepticus
For the treatment of status epilepticus (a seizure emergency), a single dose of 0.09 mg per pound (0.2 mg per kilogram) is typically administered. This should only be done by a veterinarian, usually via intranasal administration or IV/IM injection.
| Weight (lbs) | Weight (kg) | Dosage for Status Epilepticus (mg) |
|---|---|---|
| 10 lbs | 4.5 kg | 0.9 mg |
| 20 lbs | 9.1 kg | 1.8 mg |
| 30 lbs | 13.6 kg | 2.7 mg |
| 40 lbs | 18.1 kg | 3.6 mg |
| 50 lbs | 22.7 kg | 4.5 mg |
| 60 lbs | 27.2 kg | 5.4 mg |
| 70 lbs | 31.8 kg | 6.3 mg |
| 80 lbs | 36.3 kg | 7.2 mg |
| 90 lbs | 40.8 kg | 8.1 mg |
| 100 lbs | 45.4 kg | 9.0 mg |
Uses of Ativan in Dogs
Veterinarians typically prescribe Ativan for dogs to treat:
- Anxiety disorders: Including separation anxiety, noise phobias (like thunderstorms or fireworks), and situational anxiety
- Phobias: Such as fear of veterinary visits or travel
- Status epilepticus: A serious condition involving prolonged seizures (lasting 30 minutes or more) or multiple seizures without recovery in between
Ativan vs. Valium: Which is Better for Dogs?
When comparing Ativan (lorazepam) to Valium (diazepam), both are benzodiazepines that can be effective for treating anxiety and seizures in dogs. However, there are some important differences:
| Feature | Ativan (Lorazepam) | Valium (Diazepam) |
|---|---|---|
| Liver Impact | Less strain on the liver | More significant liver metabolism |
| Anticonvulsant Duration | Potentially longer-lasting effects | Shorter duration of action |
| Usage Frequency | Less commonly prescribed | More commonly used in veterinary practice |
| Best For | Dogs with liver impairment | General use without liver issues |
While some studies suggest that Ativan may have longer-lasting anticonvulsant effects compared to diazepam, other research indicates the difference in duration might be negligible. Your veterinarian will consider your dog’s specific health needs, especially liver function, when determining which medication is most appropriate.
Safety Guidelines and Precautions
While Ativan is generally considered safe for dogs when used as prescribed, there are important safety guidelines to follow:
Before Starting Ativan
- Consult your veterinarian: Never give your dog Ativan without veterinary approval
- Disclose all medications: Inform your vet about any other medications or supplements your dog is taking
- Discuss health history: Be sure to mention if your dog has liver problems, respiratory issues, or is pregnant/nursing
During Treatment
- Monitor appetite: Lorazepam can significantly increase appetite, leading to overeating
- Watch for side effects: Pay attention to any changes in behavior or physical symptoms
- Follow dosage instructions precisely: Never adjust the dosage without consulting your vet
- Don’t stop abruptly: After prolonged use, your dog will need to be gradually weaned off the medication to avoid withdrawal symptoms
Special Considerations
- Liver impairment: Ativan may be a better choice than other benzodiazepines for dogs with liver problems, but still requires careful monitoring
- Respiratory issues: Use with caution in dogs with severely impaired respiratory function
- Pregnancy and nursing: While generally considered safe at normal doses, discuss the risks with your veterinarian if your dog is pregnant or nursing
Common Side Effects of Ativan in Dogs
Like any medication, Ativan can cause side effects in dogs. Most are mild and may decrease as your dog adjusts to the medication:
Common Side Effects
- Increased hunger: This is one of the most frequently reported side effects
- Lethargy: Especially at the beginning of treatment or when dosage is increased
- Loss of coordination: Your dog may seem unsteady or clumsy
- Hyperactivity: Paradoxically, some dogs may become more active
- Aggression: Rare, but some dogs may exhibit increased aggression
Serious Side Effects (Contact Your Vet Immediately)
- Vomiting
- Yellowing of the eyes or mucous membranes
- Loss of appetite
- Extreme lethargy or unresponsiveness
While liver damage is not expected with Ativan use, it’s important to watch for any signs of liver problems and contact your veterinarian if you notice concerning symptoms.
What to Do in Case of Overdose
Accidental overdoses can happen, especially with curious dogs who might get into medication bottles. Here’s what you need to know:
Signs of Ativan Overdose
- Extreme sedation or lethargy
- Loss of coordination or difficulty walking
- Confusion or disorientation
- In severe cases: coma, seizures, or respiratory depression
Immediate Actions
- Contact your veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately
- Call the ASPCA Pet Poison Helpline at (800) 213-6680
- Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a veterinarian
- Bring the medication container with you to the veterinary clinic
While mild overdoses typically cause only central nervous system depression, very large overdoses can be dangerous and potentially fatal if left untreated. Prompt veterinary care is essential.
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FAQs
Can I give my dog human Ativan?
No. You should never give your dog medication prescribed for humans without explicit veterinary approval. While the active ingredient (lorazepam) is the same, human formulations may contain additional ingredients that could be harmful to dogs. Additionally, the dosage for humans is typically much higher than what dogs require, increasing the risk of overdose.
How quickly does Ativan work in dogs?
Ativan is relatively fast-acting in dogs. When administered orally for anxiety, effects are typically seen within 30-60 minutes. When administered intravenously or intranasally for seizures, effects can be seen within minutes. However, the exact timing can vary depending on your dog’s metabolism, size, and whether they have food in their stomach.
How long does Ativan last in dogs?
The effects of Ativan typically last 6-8 hours in dogs when used for anxiety management. When used for seizure control, the anticonvulsant effects may last longer, potentially up to 12 hours in some cases. This is one reason why some veterinarians prefer Ativan over Valium for seizure management, as it may have longer-lasting effects.
