Lorazepam 0.5 mL Oral Concentrate Equals 1 mg (One Tablet)
0.5 mL of lorazepam 2 mg/mL oral concentrate contains 1 mg of lorazepam, which is equivalent to one standard 1 mg tablet.
Calculation
The FDA-approved lorazepam oral concentrate is formulated at 2 mg per mL 1. Using basic pharmaceutical calculation:
- 0.5 mL × 2 mg/mL = 1 mg lorazepam
The calibrated dropper provided with the oral concentrate is specifically graduated to measure 0.5 mL (which delivers 1 mg), along with other common doses 1.
Clinical Context
Standard lorazepam tablets are available in 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg strengths. The oral concentrate formulation allows for more precise dosing adjustments, particularly useful in:
- Elderly or debilitated patients requiring initial doses of 1-2 mg/day in divided doses 1
- Patients needing gradual dose titration
- Those who cannot swallow tablets
Important Administration Details
The oral concentrate must be mixed with liquid or semi-solid food immediately before administration 1. Acceptable mixing vehicles include:
- Water
- Juices
- Soda or soda-like beverages
- Applesauce
- Puddings
Do not store the mixture for future use - the entire prepared dose must be consumed immediately 1.
Storage and Stability
The oral concentrate requires refrigeration at 2-8°C (36-46°F) and must be protected from light 1. Once opened, the bottle should be discarded after 90 days 1.
Dosing Equivalence Across Formulations
Research confirms that lorazepam demonstrates complete bioavailability (approximately 95-100%) regardless of administration route - oral tablets, sublingual, or intramuscular 2. This means 1 mg from the oral concentrate provides equivalent systemic exposure to one 1 mg tablet.