Ativan drug class
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Ativan Drug Class: Benzodiazepines
Introduction to Ativan (Lorazepam)
Ativan, known generically as lorazepam, is a medication that belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs. Benzodiazepines are central nervous system (CNS) depressants and are primarily used for their anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties 2. Lorazepam is classified as a Schedule IV drug, indicating its potential for abuse and dependence, although this risk is relatively low compared to other controlled substances 2.
Mechanism of Action and Pharmacokinetics
Lorazepam works by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the GABA-A receptor, which results in sedative, anxiolytic, and muscle relaxant properties 2. After oral administration, peak plasma concentrations of lorazepam are typically reached within 1 to 6 hours, with a serum half-life of approximately 12 to 15 hours 2. The drug is primarily excreted through the renal system, with 88% of the drug being eliminated in the urine 2.
Clinical Uses of Ativan
Anxiety Disorders
Lorazepam is widely used for the treatment of acute anxiety disorders. It has been shown to be highly effective in relieving both emotional and physical symptoms of anxiety, comparable to other established benzodiazepines like diazepam (Valium) 1. Its efficacy and safety profile make it a reliable option for managing anxiety symptoms 1.
Status Epilepticus and Pre-Surgical Anxiety
In addition to its use in anxiety, lorazepam is also employed as an initial treatment for status epilepticus, a severe and prolonged seizure condition 2. It is also used to manage pre-surgical anxiety, providing sedative effects to help patients remain calm before undergoing medical procedures 2.
Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome
Lorazepam is frequently used in the management of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS). Benzodiazepines, including lorazepam, are the preferred pharmacologic agents for treating acute alcohol withdrawal states due to their effectiveness in reducing withdrawal symptoms and preventing complications 2. Lorazepam is particularly favored in acute care settings because it can be administered both intravenously and orally, making it versatile for different clinical scenarios 2.
Side Effects and Dependence
While lorazepam is generally well-tolerated, it does have sedative properties that can lead to drowsiness and dizziness 2. Long-term use of benzodiazepines can lead to dependence, although lorazepam has a relatively lower risk compared to other substances 2. It is important for healthcare providers to monitor patients for signs of dependence and to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.
Conclusion
Ativan (lorazepam) is a versatile benzodiazepine with a wide range of clinical applications, primarily in the treatment of anxiety disorders, status epilepticus, and alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Its efficacy, safety profile, and pharmacokinetic properties make it a valuable tool in both acute and chronic settings. However, due to its potential for dependence, careful monitoring and judicious use are essential.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
A CONTROLLED CLINICAL TRIAL OF A NEW ANTIANXIETY AGENT LORAZEPAM (ATIVAN)
Lorazepam (Ativan) and diazepam (Vailum) are equally effective in relieving anxiety symptoms, with minimal side effects and no evidence of dependence.
Ativan (Lorazepam).
Ativan is a safe and effective treatment for acute alcohol withdrawal symptoms, with potential for long-term use in treating alcohol dependency and other substance use disorders.
A randomized trial of the effectiveness of topical "ABH Gel" (Ativan(®), Benadryl(®), Haldol(®)) vs. placebo in cancer patients with nausea.
ABH gel in its current formulation is ineffective in reducing nausea and vomiting in cancer patients compared to placebo.
RCTRohypnol:: Profile of the "Date-Rape Drug"
Rohypnol, a benzodiazepine, is a powerful chemical weapon used by rapists to overpower female victims, and lorazepam, a legitimate medical drug, has also been used by criminals in similar circumstances.
Lorazepam and driving impairment.
Lorazepam can significantly impair driving and psychomotor abilities, regardless of the concentration detected in the blood.
Observational StudyDrug use review.
BZDs are commonly prescribed for various clinical situations, but chronic use can lead to addiction and prescribers worry about liability for abuse and dependence.
Lorazepam in cancer patients treated with cisplatin: a drug having antiemetic, amnesic, and anxiolytic effects.
Lorazepam may block the recall of unpleasant chemotherapy events and reduce anxiety, with no long-term adverse effects observed.
Non-RCT
Highly CitedEffects of lorazepam on rate of forgetting, on retrieval from semantic memory and on manual dexterity
Lorazepam impairs input, not retention, and does not affect retrieval, suggesting its effect is on input, specifically impaired encoding of contextual information.
RCT