Trade Name of Lorazepam
The trade name of lorazepam is Ativan. 1, 2, 3
Lorazepam (Ativan) is a benzodiazepine medication that is widely used in clinical practice for various indications. According to multiple clinical guidelines and the FDA drug label, Ativan is the established brand name for lorazepam.
Clinical Applications of Lorazepam (Ativan)
Lorazepam is commonly used for:
- Anxiety management 1
- Insomnia treatment 1
- Management of alcohol withdrawal syndrome 1
- Acute agitation in psychiatric and emergency settings 1
- Sedation in intensive care settings 1
- Antiemetic effects for chemotherapy-associated nausea 1, 3
- Pre-anesthetic medication 4
Pharmacological Properties
- Mechanism of action: Lorazepam exerts its CNS depressant effect by binding to presynaptic γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors 1
- Formulations: Available in oral tablets, oral concentrate (2 mg/mL), and injectable forms 2
- Onset of action: Fast onset compared to some other benzodiazepines 1
- Duration: Intermediate-acting benzodiazepine 1
- Metabolism: Metabolized by the liver with no active metabolites, making it preferable in certain patient populations 1, 4
Clinical Considerations
- Dosing: Varies by indication but typically starts at lower doses (0.5-2 mg) for anxiety and can be higher for acute agitation 1
- Administration routes: Can be given orally, intravenously, intramuscularly, or sublingually 1
- Cautions:
- Can cause sedation, dizziness, weakness, and impaired driving ability 5
- Regular use can lead to tolerance, addiction, depression, and cognitive impairment 1
- Paradoxical agitation occurs in about 10% of patients 1
- May have prolonged effects in elderly patients, those with hepatic dysfunction, or renal insufficiency 1
Important Distinctions
- Lorazepam has advantages over some other benzodiazepines:
The identification of lorazepam's trade name as Ativan is consistent across multiple clinical guidelines and is important for accurate prescription, administration, and documentation in medical practice.