What is lorazepam used for?

• Anxiety disorders
• Anxiety associated with depressive symptoms
• Relief of insomnia (sleeping problems) due to anxiety or situational stress
• Surgery-related anxiety(given shortly before anesthesia)
• Status epilepticus (seizures that last more than 5 minutes or more than one seizure in a 5-minute span)

How does lorazepam work?

Lorazepam belongs to a drug class called benzodiazepines. Lorazepam works by increasing GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) levels in the brain. Researchers have shown that GABA may boost mood and have a calming, relaxing effect on the central nervous system. Increased levels of GABA helps reduce anxiety and stop seizures. 

What is the suggested dosing for lorazepam?

Healthcare professionals administer intravenous lorazepam. The dose of intravenous lorazepam differs based on the condition being treated and the patient’s clinical response. 

Dose, frequency of administration, and duration of therapy should be individualized according to the patient’s response for optimal results. Dosage should be increased gradually based on the response to avoid adverse effects.

The usual range is 2 to 6 mg/day given in divided doses

• The largest dose should be taken at bedtime 
• The daily dose can vary from 1 mg to 10 mg per day.

For anxiety:

• Initial dose: Take 2 to 3 mg by mouth up to 2 to 3 times per day 
• Maintenance dose: Take 1 to 2 mg by mouth up to 2 to 3 times per day

For insomnia due to anxiety or transient situational stress:

• Take 2 to 4 mg by mouth at bedtime. There is no data on the efficacy in long-term treatment (more than 4 months)

For elderly or frail/weak patients: 

• The initial dose of 1 to 2 mg per day in divided doses is recommended; the dose is adjusted based on response and tolerance.