Can I take Ativan daily for my Panic attacks?

Dear Ask The Doctor: I have ativan for panic attacks I MAy have when going on a long trip soon. Yesterday and Today my chest became tight with exercise.Thinking I was Stressing out as I prepared to leave I took one and the chest relaxed. However I am concerned it could have been my heart as I am at high risk for an attack...or was before lipitor for 18 years.Can I take them daily to prevent a panic attack or wait till one happens..if that was what it was?

Dear Barbara: Ativan may be taken daily, but it may have several side effects including sedation, dizziness, blurred vision, weakness etc. Since you have several other medications to take daily, extra caution needs to be exercised in order to avoid any harmful drug interactions with ativan (for example, further lowering of BP may occur when taken along with your high blood pressure medication). Thus it is recommended to talk to your doctor before changing the dosage of this medication.