Lorazepam
Mental healthAlso known as Ativan
Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine that eases anxiety by boosting GABA, your brain's natural calming chemical. It acts faster than clonazepam but lasts longer than alprazolam, which makes it a common choice for short stretches of intense anxiety. Like all benzodiazepines it's a controlled substance, and your body can become dependent on it even when you follow the prescription exactly — so it works best as a short-term bridge, not a long-term fix.
How to take it
When
Exactly as prescribed — some people take it on a schedule, others only when anxiety spikes. Follow your doctor's plan.
Food
With or without food — food doesn't change how it works.
Avoid
Never mix with alcohol, opioids, or other sedatives — combined with opioids it can slow your breathing to the point of death. Don't drive until you know how it affects you.
Stopping
Never stop suddenly after regular use — withdrawal can include seizures. Taper with your doctor's guidance.
Missed a dose?
If you take it on a schedule, take the missed dose when you remember — unless it's nearly time for your next one, in which case skip it. Never double up.
Common side effects
- Drowsiness or sedation
- Dizziness
- Weakness or feeling unsteady
- Memory gaps, especially for events right after taking it
- Feeling emotionally flat or foggy
Call a doctor if
- Very slow or shallow breathing, or extreme sleepiness someone can't be woken from — this is an emergency, call for help immediately
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat — this is an emergency, call for help immediately
- Thoughts of hurting yourself — get help now
- Seizures, tremors, or hallucinations after stopping or cutting back — get medical help right away
- Severe confusion or agitation