To reduce agitation or anxiety that cause sleep problems, it is recommended to take 1-2 mg of Ativan orally 10-20 minutes before the anticipated sleep. Ativan sublingual tablet dissolves in about 30-60 minutes. Lorazepam tablets of the Ativan brand also contain lactose, microcrystalline cellulose, polacrilin, magnesium stearate, and coloring agents (indigo carmine in blue tablets and tartrazine in yellow tablets). Consumer information about the medication LORAZEPAM - SUBLINGUAL , includes side effects, drug interactions, recommended dosages, and storage information. Read more about the prescription drug LORAZEPAM - SUBLINGUAL. User Reviews for Ativan to treat Insomnia. The following information is NOT intended to endorse drugs or recommend therapy. While these reviews might be helpful, they are not a substitute for the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgement of healthcare practitioners in patient care. ATIVAN SUBLINGUAL is indicated only when the disorder has not responded to non-drug therapy, and is severe, disabling, or subjecting the individual to unacceptable distress. Overcoming insomnia. Published: February, 2011. Options include lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and medication. People with insomnia — the inability to sleep — may be plagued by trouble falling asleep, unwelcome awakenings during the night, and fitful sleep. They may experience daytime drowsiness yet still be unable to nap, and are often anxious, irritable, and unable to concentrate. Ativan (lorazepam) is readily absorbed with an absolute bioavailability of 90 percent. Peak concentrations in plasma occur approximately 2 hours following administration. The peak plasma level of lorazepam from a 2 mg dose is approximately 20 ng/mL. User Reviews for Lorazepam to treat Insomnia. Also known as: Ativan. The following information is NOT intended to endorse drugs or recommend therapy. Rated Lorazepam (Ativan) for Anxiety Report. I am a tracheal patient and have to sleep with my throat capped off and connected to a trilogy respirator. I started taking Xanax in 2008 and was advised to switch to Lorazapam (Ativan) in 2013. For a while I was taking 2 or more mg. a night to get to sleep because i was under a lot of emotional stress.