Lorazepam

What is lorazepam?

Lorazepam is a prescription-only medicine. It comes from the benzodiazepine family which are controlled drugs. Lorazepam treats various conditions, all of which affect the central nervous system. It brings calming sedative and muscle-relaxing effects[1]. 

What is lorazepam used for?

Lorazepam is typically prescribed for short-term use for a number of anxiety disorders, along with anxiety linked insomnia. It’s also used for seizures, for sedation in medical procedures, or to address some withdrawal symptoms, like general agitation[1]. 

How does lorazepam work?

Lorazepam works by increasing the activity of a natural brain chemical called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). This has an overall calming effect on the brain, often helping to reduce anxiety, induce sleep, relax the muscles, and control seizures. This works by bringing balance to brain signals that are overly active[1]. 

Who can take lorazepam?

Lorazepam is suitable for most adults and sometimes for children under strict medical supervision. It may not be safe for people who have severe breathing problems, sleep apnoea or central nervous system depression or respiratory depression. It is also unsuitable for individuals with significant liver disease, a history of alcohol or drug misuse, have unstable myasthenia gravis or who are allergic to benzodiazepines. It should not be used alone in the treatment of psychosis or depression[1].  

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have before you start treatment, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

What is the typical dosage of lorazepam?

The usual lorazepam dosage depends on the condition being treated and any individual needs. Your doctor or pharmacist will advise of the right dose for your circumstances. In most cases treatment will be for short-term use and the dosage will be between 0.5-4mg daily in divided doses. Older adults or those with liver or kidney problems may need a lower dose, to help reduce the risk of side effects[1]. 

How do you take lorazepam?

Lorazepam comes in several forms – tablets, oral liquid, and injections in hospital settings. You can take it with or without food, swallowing tablets whole with water. It’s important not to chew or crush tablets unless you’re told it’s safe to do so. If you’re taking a liquid solution, measure doses carefully using a proper measuring device (not a kitchen spoon)[1].  

Do not increase the dose or take it more often than directed. If in any doubt, consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice before making any changes. 

Can you stop taking lorazepam suddenly?

No, when taking lorazepam, you should not stop suddenly. This is because of the risk of dependence, especially if taken regularly for more than a few weeks. Stopping abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, irritability, trouble sleeping, sweating, or tremors. Seizures may be seen in severe cases. Instead of stopping abruptly, your doctor or pharmacist will create a gradual tapering plan to reduce the dose safely[1]. 

What should you do if you take too much lorazepam?

Taking too much lorazepam can be very dangerous. The symptoms of lorazepam overdose can include severe drowsiness and confusion or difficulty thinking clearly. There may also be slurred speech, a loss of coordination, along with slow or difficult breathing, or even unconsciousness. These symptoms are also a risk when benzodiazepines are co-prescribed with opioids as have an additive effect of CNS depression[1].  

It’s important to call 999 or go to A&E immediately if you or someone else may have overdosed on lorazepam. 

What should you do if you forget a dose of lorazepam?

If you forget to take lorazepam, you can take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if your next dose is due soon, skip the missed one and carry on as normal from then. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose[1]. 

Which medicines should you avoid while taking lorazepam?

Lorazepam can interact with other medications and bring serious side effects. In particular, it’s important not to combine lorazepam with other sedatives, sleeping pills, or opioid painkillers, such as morphine or codeine. You should also avoid taking lorazepam with antihistamines that cause drowsiness (like diphenhydramine), alcohol, and certain antidepressants or antipsychotics (such as clozapine), which can all cause severe drowsiness or even unconsciousness[1].  

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

What are the side effects of lorazepam?

The most commonly seen side effects of lorazepam include increased drowsiness or sleepiness, dizziness, muscle weakness, and confusion – especially in older adults. You may also experience memory problems or difficulty concentrating. These symptoms often improve as your body adjusts to the medication[1]. 

In other cases, more serious side effects which require medical attention include[1]: 

• Breathing difficulties 

• Hallucinations 

• Rash, itching, or swelling 

• Suicidal thoughts or unusual changes in mood 

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice.

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2]. 

Frequently asked questions about lorazepam

Is lorazepam addictive? 

Yes, lorazepam can lead to addiction, dependence, and tolerance, especially with long-term use. That’s why it is usually prescribed short-term or for occasional use[1]. 

Can I drink alcohol while taking lorazepam? 

No, you should not drink alcohol while taking lorazepam. That’s because alcohol can increase the sedative effects and depress your breathing to a dangerous level, so you should avoid alcohol completely while taking lorazepam[1]. 

Can I drive or use machinery while taking lorazepam? 

You must not drive or use machinery if you feel drowsy or dizzy, or if your vision is blurred. This medicine can affect your ability to perform these activities safely. It can cause drowsiness, slow reaction times and impair judgement, which may endanger you or others[1]. It is an offence to drive, attempt to drive or be in charge of a vehicle with excess of benzodiazepines in their blood[3].  

Can I take lorazepam during pregnancy or breastfeeding? 

Lorazepam is usually not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding as it may affect both the individual and the baby. You can talk to your doctor or pharmacist about safer alternatives instead[1]. 

How long does lorazepam stay in your system? 

In general, lorazepam has a half-life of about 12 hours. However, its effects may last longer depending on the dose and your metabolism. Traces may remain in your body for up to a few days[1]. 

For the official NHS guide to lorazepam, visit their website.