Comprehensive medication guide to {drug} including estimated pricing, availability information, side effects, and how to find it in stock at your local pharmacy.
Lorazepam (brand name Ativan) is a benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety disorders, short-term anxiety relief, insomnia related to anxiety, and status epilepticus (seizures). It is also used for preoperative sedation. Lorazepam works quickly and is considered an intermediate-acting benzodiazepine, making it useful for both acute anxiety and short-term management of anxiety symptoms.
Off-label, Lorazepam is also prescribed for alcohol withdrawal, chemotherapy-induced nausea, panic disorder, catatonia, and procedural sedation. It has been available since the 1970s and is one of the most widely prescribed benzodiazepines in the United States.
Lorazepam enhances the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that inhibits brain activity. It binds to the benzodiazepine site on the GABA-A receptor complex, increasing the frequency of chloride ion channel opening. This results in greater neuronal inhibition, which produces calming, anxiety-reducing, sedative, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant effects. Unlike some other benzodiazepines, Lorazepam is metabolized primarily through glucuronidation (not the CYP450 system), which means it has fewer drug interactions and is often preferred in elderly patients or those with liver concerns.
Oral tablets are the most commonly prescribed form. The typical starting dose for anxiety is 0.5–1 mg taken two to three times daily, with a usual range of 2–6 mg per day.
Lorazepam oral tablets are generally available at most pharmacies, but some patients report intermittent difficulty finding specific strengths or formulations. As a Schedule IV controlled substance, supply is subject to DEA manufacturing quotas, which can occasionally create localized shortages. Injectable Lorazepam has experienced more frequent shortages since 2016. Overall, most patients should be able to fill prescriptions for oral Lorazepam without significant delays, though it may require checking a few pharmacies. Medfinder can help you locate pharmacies with Lorazepam in stock near you.
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Lorazepam can be prescribed by a variety of healthcare providers, including:
Telehealth prescribing of Lorazepam is available in some states, though many telehealth platforms have restrictions on prescribing controlled substances, particularly benzodiazepines.
Yes, Lorazepam is a Schedule IV controlled substance under the DEA. Schedule IV drugs have a recognized medical use but carry a risk of abuse and physical or psychological dependence. Prescriptions for Lorazepam are subject to controlled substance regulations, including limits on refills (up to 5 refills within 6 months of the original prescription date), ID requirements at pickup, and potential quantity limits imposed by insurance plans or state laws.
Important: Lorazepam carries an FDA Boxed Warning about the risks of combining it with opioids, which can cause profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. It also warns of risks of abuse, misuse, addiction, physical dependence, and life-threatening withdrawal reactions if stopped abruptly.
Serious side effects can include respiratory depression (especially when combined with opioids or alcohol), paradoxical reactions (agitation, aggression), suicidal thoughts, seizures upon abrupt discontinuation, and severe withdrawal syndrome. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, severe confusion, or allergic reactions.
Talk to your doctor about which alternative may be right for you, especially if you're having trouble finding Lorazepam in stock.
Always inform your doctor and pharmacist about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting Lorazepam.
Lorazepam is a widely prescribed and effective benzodiazepine for managing anxiety, insomnia related to anxiety, and seizures. As an inexpensive generic medication, it is accessible to most patients with or without insurance. While oral tablets are generally available, some patients may experience intermittent supply issues at individual pharmacies due to DEA quotas and supply chain factors. If you're having trouble finding Lorazepam at your usual pharmacy, Medfinder can help you search for pharmacies with it in stock near you. Always work closely with your prescriber, never stop Lorazepam abruptly, and discuss any concerns about side effects or alternatives with your healthcare provider.
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