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About Dr Alan Galbraith
Expertise
I can answer most questions on most drugs. Answers can be given in either technical or layperson terminology. My main areas of interest are psychiatric, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular drugs.

Experience
I have been a university lecturer/head of department for almost thirty years, but am now retired. My research interests were alcohol, smoking and cardiovascular disease.

Organizations
Institute of Biology, London.

Publications
Author of "Fundamentals of Pharmacology" 5th Edition published in November 2007 by Pearson Education, Australia.

Education/Credentials
BSc(Hons);MSc;PhD;MIBiol; Cert Biol; HECert

You are here: Experts > Health/Fitness > Pharmacology > Pharmacy > Ativan

Pharmacy - Ativan

Expert: Dr Alan Galbraith - 10/18/2009

Question
Hi- I was sent to a hematologist after lab blood work showed low white/red count.CBC was done-the only other suspicious thing were blasts.I asked if the ativan i take(.5 mg at bedtime)could affect the low white cell count.He said no-it wasnt enough .Ive never read anywhere how much you would have to take for this to happen--but ive been on and off it for years.It improves my life--i feel much more relaxed(hopefully it's not doing bad stuff too)

Answer
Dear Sandy

There is no evidence that Ativan or any other benzodiazepine causes any blood problems so rest easy there. However, I will point out that long term frequent use can cause memory problems and even some brain damage. This would mainly apply with continuous rather than intermittent usage.

Regards

Dr Alan Galbraith

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