Lorazepam comes in tablet form as a nearly white powder that doesn’t easily dissolve in water. Each tablet contains 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg of lorazepam and includes inactive ingredients like dry lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and polacrilin potassium.
When tested on healthy individuals, lorazepam showed a calming effect on the central nervous system, without affecting respiratory or heart function. It is rapidly absorbed with a 90% bioavailability, reaching peak levels in about 2 hours after taking a dose. A 2 mg dose results in a plasma concentration of approximately 20 ng/mL. Lorazepam remains active in the bloodstream for about 12 hours, and its main metabolite, lorazepam glucuronide, lasts about 18 hours. Around 85% of lorazepam binds to plasma proteins, and it is processed by connecting with lorazepam glucuronide, which is excreted through urine. This glucuronide does not affect the central nervous system in animals. Blood levels of lorazepam match the given dose, with no accumulation noticed over six months of use.
Research comparing young and older adults shows that age doesn’t significantly impact how lorazepam is metabolized, though elderly individuals may experience a 20% decrease in total body clearance after intravenous administration. Lorazepam tablets are used to manage anxiety disorders or provide short-term relief from anxiety symptoms, including those with depressive symptoms, but are not typically needed for general stress or routine anxiety.
The long-term effectiveness of lorazepam, especially beyond four months, has not been fully studied, so doctors should regularly reassess its suitability for each patient. Lorazepam should not be taken by people allergic to benzodiazepines or its components, or those with acute narrow-angle glaucoma.
Possible side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and decreased cognitive function. It’s crucial not to drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how lorazepam affects you. Avoid alcohol or other sedatives unless discussed with your doctor, as these can heighten drowsiness and dizziness. Depression may surface or worsen with benzodiazepines, including lorazepam. Common side effects are sedation, dizziness, weakness, and unsteadiness.
In patients with depression, there’s a suicide risk, so benzodiazepines should only be used with appropriate antidepressant treatment. Caution is necessary for patients with respiratory issues, like COPD or sleep apnea. Elderly or frail patients might be more sensitive to lorazepam’s sedative effects, requiring careful monitoring and dosage adjustments that should start at or below 2 mg. Rarely, paradoxical reactions can occur, more so in older patients and children. If these happen, stopping the medication is advised.
For people with problematic liver or kidney function, standard precautions apply, as lorazepam might worsen hepatic encephalopathy. Dosages need close adjustment, as lower doses may suffice. Although not proven effective for gastrointestinal or cardiovascular disorders often tied to anxiety, lorazepam requires careful use and monitoring, especially in the elderly, considering potential stomach issues.
In case of an overdose, symptoms range from drowsiness to coma. Overdose signs can include drowsiness, confusion, speech troubles, lethargy, trance-like states, reduced reflexes, poor coordination, and lower muscle tone. Paradoxical reactions like irritation or confusion might also occur. Severe overdoses can lead to respiratory distress and coma.
For proper usage, follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and timing. If you overdose, seek immediate help from your doctor or emergency services.
