Lorazepam 1.25 mg Daily Prescription Guidelines
The recommended prescription for Lorazepam (Ativan) 1.25 mg daily should be written as "Lorazepam 1.25 mg PO once daily" with appropriate instructions for duration, refills, and patient monitoring.
Prescription Format Details
When writing a prescription for Lorazepam 1.25 mg daily, include:
- Patient information (name, DOB, address)
- Medication name: Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Strength: 1.25 mg tablets
- Route: PO (by mouth)
- Frequency: Once daily
- Quantity: 30 tablets (for a 30-day supply)
- Refills: Typically limited (e.g., 1-3) due to benzodiazepine class
- Signature: Include DEA number as Lorazepam is a Schedule IV controlled substance
Dosing Considerations
- The FDA-approved dosage range for Lorazepam is 1-10 mg/day, with most patients requiring 2-6 mg/day divided into doses 1
- For anxiety, the typical initial dose is 2-3 mg/day divided into 2-3 doses 1
- For elderly or debilitated patients, a lower initial dosage of 1-2 mg/day in divided doses is recommended 1
- The 1.25 mg daily dose falls within the FDA-approved range but is on the lower end
Administration Instructions
- Lorazepam can be taken with or without food
- For oral concentrate formulations, specific mixing instructions should be included:
- Mix with liquid or semi-solid food (water, juice, applesauce)
- Use only the calibrated dropper provided
- Consume the mixture immediately 1
Important Prescribing Considerations
- Dependency and withdrawal risk: Include instructions for gradual tapering when discontinuing to reduce withdrawal reactions 1
- Duration of therapy: Should be as short as possible to minimize dependence risk
- Monitoring requirements: Regular assessment for side effects, efficacy, and signs of tolerance or dependence
Special Populations
- Elderly patients: Consider starting at a lower dose (1 mg/day) and titrating as needed 1
- Patients with hepatic impairment: Lower doses may be required due to reduced clearance
- Patients on multiple medications: Be aware of potential drug interactions, particularly with other CNS depressants
Discontinuation
If discontinuation is planned, include a tapering schedule:
- Reduce dosage gradually to minimize withdrawal symptoms
- If withdrawal reactions occur, pause the taper or return to previous dosage level before continuing with a slower taper 1
Remember that benzodiazepines like Lorazepam carry risks of dependence and withdrawal, so prescribing should be done judiciously with regular monitoring of patient response and continued need for therapy.