Lorazepam: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Lorazepam is used for short-term anxiety and, by injection, for seizures. It belongs to the Sedative / anti-anxiety (benzodiazepine group) group. These calm the nervous system for short-term anxiety, sleep or seizures. They can cause dependence, so they are used carefully and short-term.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Sedative / anti-anxiety (benzodiazepine group)
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Short-term relief of anxiety
Anxiety-related sleep problems (short-term)
Calming before procedures
Stopping prolonged seizures (injection, in hospital)

Common brand names

India: Ativan, Lorazep, Larpose
Worldwide: Ativan

Common side effects

Drowsiness and tiredness
Dizziness or unsteadiness
Forgetfulness
Muscle weakness

Before taking it — precautions

Do not mix with alcohol, opioid painkillers or other sedatives (risk of slowed breathing)
Tell your doctor about pregnancy, breathing problems, sleep apnoea, liver or kidney disease, or past dependence
Use for the shortest time; older people are more likely to fall

When to see a doctor urgently

Very slow or shallow breathing, or cannot be woken (urgent)
Severe confusion or unusual agitation
Seizures or severe withdrawal symptoms after stopping suddenly (urgent)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of lorazepam depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

How is lorazepam different from diazepam?

Lorazepam acts for a shorter time and builds up less in the body, but both are benzodiazepines with similar dependence risk.

Can lorazepam cause dependence?

Yes. Regular use beyond a few weeks can lead to dependence, so it should be used short-term and reduced slowly.

Can I drive while taking lorazepam?

It can slow your reactions and make you drowsy. Do not drive until you know how it affects you.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.