Uses for lorazepam

Ativan (lorazepam) is a 1,4-benzodiazepine derivative. This class of drugs are also known as "classical" or "traditional" benzodiazepines as opposed to something like Xanax (alprazolam) which is a triazolobenzodiazepine. Valium (diazepam) is a classical benzodiazepine.

Ativan is indicated in the treatment and management of anxiety and anxiety related disorders, including panic attacks. It is also the drug of choice (neck and neck with diazepam, but disputed) in the treatment of convulsive seizures or status epilepticus (prolonged seizures lasting longer than 5 minutes, may be life threatening.)

Ativan is also used for inducing anterograde amnesia in dental/conscious sedation procedures. So the patient should have a safe driver home. Alcohol withdrawal (delirium tremens, hallucinations, etc.) respond to lorazepam. Ativan does not go through the liver like so many benzodiazepines as it passes through the kidneys more extensively making benefits for those with hepatic impairment. It has also been successfully used in children as well as elderly. Insomnia is also treated with Ativan. There are also off-label uses such as an anti-nausea/vomiting for chemotherapy.

Ativan comes in tablets, an oral solution, and injections.