"ativan was prescribed inpatient to me.  after major suicidal ideations and an active plan, i was given this to take when required ( about 3 to 4 mg a day ) inpatient.  i am on lamictal, lexapro and ritalin also seroquel as needed for sleep, plus ativan 1 mg when required.  i usually take 1 mg in the evening.  works great!  very subtle compared to klonopin, valium and xanax.  i would rank xanax as number 1, ativan number 2, valium 3 and klonopin a close 3rd but 4th.  give ativan about 1.5 hours to feel effects, it takes about 2 hours to peak and lasts about 8 for me.  doesn&#039;t pack a &#039;punch&#039; like xanax or valium but it is noticeable.  it also seems to help depression somewhat!  whereas others can drag u down."