Key takeaways
Ramelteon (Rozerem) and lorazepam (Ativan) are both medications that can help with sleep issues, but they work in different ways and have important differences. Ramelteon is a melatonin receptor agonist used to treat insomnia by helping you fall asleep, while lorazepam is a benzodiazepine primarily used for anxiety and sometimes off-label for sleep issues. Ramelteon is taken as an 8 mg oral tablet 30 minutes before bedtime, whereas lorazepam can be taken in various forms, including tablets, oral solutions, and injections, with dosing depending on the condition being treated. Ramelteon is not a controlled substance, while lorazepam is a Schedule IV controlled substance due to the risk of misuse and dependence. Common side effects of ramelteon include dizziness and sleepiness, while lorazepam can cause sleepiness, dizziness, and weakness. Ramelteon should not be taken with high-fat meals and can interact with many medications, including fluvoxamine and fluconazole, while lorazepam should not be mixed with alcohol or opioid pain medications due to the risk of severe side effects.
