What it means
A benzodiazepine that strengthens GABA, the brain's calming messenger. It is used for anxiety, sedation before procedures, alcohol withdrawal and, given IV, to stop prolonged seizures (status epilepticus). It comes as tablets, an extended-release capsule, and an injection. Drowsiness, dizziness, confusion and unsteadiness are common; too much can slow breathing, especially with opioids or alcohol.
For the nurse
Check breathing, oxygen saturation and level of sedation, and keep flumazenil and airway equipment available after IV doses. Use fall precautions. Teach the client not to drink alcohol and not to stop suddenly after regular use, because withdrawal can cause seizures. ISMP lists IV lorazepam for moderate sedation as high alert.
At a glance
| Drug class | benzodiazepine (anxiolytic, sedative, anticonvulsant) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Ativan, Loreev XR |
| Spanish | lorazepam |
| Also written | Ativan, Loreev XR |
Easy to confuse with
alprazolam
A benzodiazepine drug taken by mouth to treat anxiety and panic disorder.
clonazepam
A long-acting benzodiazepine drug used for seizure disorders and panic disorder.
Related terms
seizure
A sudden burst of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that changes movement, feeling, behavior or awareness.
sedative-hypnotic
A drug that calms a person (sedative) or helps them fall asleep (hypnotic); the same drug can do either, depending on the dose.
alprazolam
A benzodiazepine drug taken by mouth to treat anxiety and panic disorder.
clonazepam
A long-acting benzodiazepine drug used for seizure disorders and panic disorder.