From the Research
Treatment of catatonia in adolescents typically begins with low doses of lorazepam (often 0.5-1mg) that may be gradually increased under close medical supervision, but the exact regimen must be determined by a psychiatrist or physician familiar with the patient's complete medical history. The use of lorazepam in catatonia is supported by several studies, including a case series published in 2024 1, which demonstrated marginal reduction in symptoms with high-dose lorazepam in conjunction with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Another study published in 2024 2 highlighted the importance of careful titration and monitoring of lorazepam doses, as some patients may require high-dose maintenance treatment.
Key considerations in the treatment of catatonia with lorazepam include:
- Monitoring for side effects such as sedation and respiratory depression
- Regular reassessment of symptoms
- Administration under direct medical supervision in a hospital setting
- Informed consent from parents or guardians
- Emergency psychiatric evaluation before treatment begins
It is also important to note that lorazepam may be used in combination with other treatments, such as ECT, as supported by a study published in 2017 3, which found that 95% of patients fully recovered after administration of lorazepam and/or ECT. Additionally, a study published in 2025 4 highlighted the use of IM ketamine to facilitate IV access for ECT in patients with autism and hyperactive catatonia who were prescribed high-dose benzodiazepines.
Overall, while the exact dosage of lorazepam for a 17-year-old with catatonia cannot be recommended without individualized medical assessment, low doses of lorazepam (often 0.5-1mg) with gradual increase under close medical supervision is a common approach, as supported by the most recent and highest quality studies 1, 2.