Lorazepam

Antidepressant Drug

Drug class: Benzodiazepine, BDZs

Lorazepam (ATIVAN)（中文：勞拉西泮）

Common Strengths of Lorazepam

Lorazepam are available in the following strengths:

• Tablets: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg
• Oral solution: 2 mg/mL
• Injection solution: 2 mg/mL, 4 mg/mL

Drug Trade Names of Lorazepam

Ativan

Drug Usage

• Anxiety disorders
• Insomnia due to anxiety or stress
• Status epilepticus
• Pre-operative sedation

Mechanism of Action

Lorazepam enhances the effect of GABA, the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, by binding to GABA_A receptors. This results in sedative, anxiolytic, muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsant effects.

Route of Administration

Oral (tablets, solution), intramuscular injection, intravenous injection

Dosages

• For anxiety: 2-3 mg/day in divided doses, maximum 10 mg/day
• Elderly or debilitated patients: Start with 1 to 2 mg/day in divided doses

Side Effects

Frequency	Adverse reactions
Common	Sedation (15.9%)
	Dizziness (6.9%)
	Weakness (4.2%)
	Unsteadiness (3.4%)
	Drowsiness
	Fatigue
	Confusion
	Amnesia
	Ataxia
	Respiratory depression
	Hypotension
	Vertigo
	Visual disturbances
	Dysarthria
	Nausea
	Constipation
The incidence of sedation and unsteadiness increase with age. Lorazepam can impair both explicit and implicit memory more profoundly than other benzodiazepines.
Serious	Respiratory depression and failure
	Seizures
	Suicidal ideation/attempt
	Dependence and abuse
	Tachycardia
	Blood dyscrasias
	Jaundice
	Paradoxical reactions (hyperactive and aggressive behavior)
	Withdrawal symptoms if abruptly discontinued after long-term use
Lorazepam's effects are dose-dependent. Using the smallest effective dose minimizes adverse effects. Sedative drugs like lorazepam have been associated with increased mortality risk.
Note: Lorazepam carries risks of dependence and withdrawal. It should be used under close medical supervision and not stopped abruptly.