About Lorazepam

Introduction

• Lorazepam is a medicine classified under benzodiazepines.
• Brand name: Ativan.
• Primarily used to treat:
  • Anxiety
  • Sleeping problems related to anxiety
• Used as a pre-med to help relax before:
  • Operations
  • Medical or dental treatments
• Functions by increasing levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a calming chemical in the brain.

Availability and Administration

• Available by prescription only.
• Comes in forms of:
  • Tablets
  • Liquid for oral consumption
• Administered as an injection in hospitals for seizures or fits.

Key Facts

• Onset and Duration:
  • Tablets and liquid take effect in 20-30 minutes.
  • Full sedating effect lasts 6-8 hours.
• Common Side Effect:
  • Daytime drowsiness.
• Usage Recommendations:
  • Not advised for use longer than 4 weeks.
  • Avoid driving, biking, or operating tools/machinery if drowsy.
  • Avoid alcohol; can cause deep sleep, breathing problems, and difficulty waking.

Additional Information

• For more information, refer to further sections on:
  • Who can and cannot take lorazepam.
  • How and when to take it.
  • Side effects.
  • Considerations during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and for fertility.
  • Interactions with other medicines and supplements.
  • Common questions about lorazepam.

Reviews and Updates

• Last Reviewed: 14 February 2023
• Next Review Due: 14 February 2026

Additional Support Links

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  • And more related services and policies.