From the Guidelines
Ativan (lorazepam) is a prescription benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety disorders, insomnia, and seizures, with a typical starting dose of 0.5-1 mg for adults with anxiety, taken 2-3 times daily as needed, as recommended by the most recent guidelines 1. Ativan works by enhancing the effects of GABA, a neurotransmitter that reduces brain activity, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. It has a relatively quick onset of action, usually within 20-30 minutes. Important considerations:
- Only take Ativan as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not abruptly stop taking Ativan, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms.
- Avoid alcohol while taking Ativan, as it can increase sedation.
- Be cautious when driving or operating machinery, as Ativan can cause drowsiness.
- Ativan can be habit-forming, so it's typically prescribed for short-term use (2-4 weeks). Side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion. Long-term use can lead to tolerance and dependence, so regular reassessment by your doctor is important. The dosage may need to be adjusted for elderly or debilitated patients, with a recommended dose of 0.25-0.5 mg, as stated in the guidelines 1. Additionally, Ativan may be used in the management of delirium in adult cancer patients, with a suggested starting dose of 1 mg, as mentioned in the guidelines 1. However, it's essential to note that the use of benzodiazepines, including Ativan, should be carefully considered due to the potential risks of increased patient agitation and delirium, as highlighted in the guidelines 1. Overall, Ativan can be an effective treatment option for anxiety disorders, insomnia, and seizures, but its use should be closely monitored and guided by the most recent clinical guidelines 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Lorazepam Oral Concentrate is a prescription medicine used: to treat anxiety disorders for the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety or anxiety that can happen with symptoms of depression Lorazepam Oral Concentrate is a federal controlled substance (CIV) because it contains lorazepam that can be abused or lead to dependence
Ativan (lorazepam) is a benzodiazepine medicine used to treat anxiety disorders and for the short-term relief of anxiety symptoms. It is a federal controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and dependence 2.
- It is available as an oral concentrate containing 2 mg of lorazepam per mL 2.
- The active ingredient is lorazepam, a nearly white powder that is almost insoluble in water 2.
From the Research
What is Ativan (lorazepam)?
Ativan, also known as lorazepam, is a type of benzodiazepine. The key characteristics of benzodiazepines include:
- Hypnotic, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, myorelaxant, and amnesic actions 3
- High efficacy, rapid onset of action, and low toxicity 3
- Potential for abuse and dependence or addiction, although few cases of addiction arise from legitimate use 4
Therapeutic Uses
Benzodiazepines, including lorazepam, have various therapeutic uses, such as:
- Treatment of anxiety disorders, including acute stress reactions, episodic anxiety, and panic disorder 3, 5
- Treatment of insomnia, with lorazepam being a high-potency benzodiazepine suitable for this purpose 5
- Treatment of alcohol withdrawal symptoms, with lorazepam being one of the commonly used benzodiazepines for this purpose 6
- Treatment of other conditions, such as epilepsy, motor disorders, and acute psychoses 3
Important Considerations
When using benzodiazepines like lorazepam, it is essential to consider: