Introduction of Lorazepam
Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine medication that is commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, including anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, or seizures. It is available in both orally administered tablet and injectable form. It depresses the central nervous system and is used as a sedative, for muscle relaxation, and to control seizures.
Uses for Lorazepam
Lorazepam is mainly used to treat anxiety, insomnia, seizure disorders, muscle related disorders or issues with alcohol withdrawal. It can also be used as a sedative before medical procedures.
| Brand Name | Lorazepam |
|---|---|
| Type | |
| Weight | |
| Generic | Lorazepam |
| Manufacturer | |
| Available in | English বাংলা |
Mechanism of Action
Lorazepam works by affecting the brain's GABA receptors, which increases the effects of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). It causes the brain to become more relaxed and calm.
How Long Does it Take to Work
The effects of lorazepam may appear within 20 minutes of taking the medication. Its effects may last up to 6 hours after taking the medication.
Absorption
Lorazepam is well absorbed when taken by mouth and its absorption is not affected by food.
Route of Elimination
Lorazepam is eliminated mainly through the kidneys as unchanged (active) drug.
Dosage
Lorazepam is administered orally. For optimal results; dose, frequency of administration and duration of therapy should be individualized according to patient's response.- The usual range is 2 to 6 mg/day given in divided doses, the largest dose being taken before bedtime, but the largest dosage may vary from 1 to 10 mg/day.
- For anxiety, most patients require an initial dose of 2 to 3 mg/day given b.i.d. or t.i.d.
- For elderly or debilitated patients, an initial dosage of 1 to 2 mg/day in divided doses is recommended, to be adjusted as needed and tolerated.
- For insomnia 1 to 2 mg before bedtime and as premedicant 1 to 2 mg the night before surgery and 1 to 2 hour before surgery.
For IM use, undiluted Lorazepam injection should be administered. For IV use, it must be diluted with an equal volume of compatible solutions e.g. Sterile Water for Injection, Sodium Chloride Injection, 5% Dextrose Injection. The rate of injection should not exceed 2 mg per minute.
The usual adult dosage of lorazepam ranges from 0.5 to 2 mg per day, taken two to three times a day. It is recommended to start at the lowest possible dose and gradually increase it to the desired effect.
Administration
Lorazepam can be taken orally (in tablet form) or can be injected intramuscularly.
Side Effect
Common side effects of lorazepam include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, headache, weakness, drymouth, coordination problems. More serious side effects may include changes in behavior or depression.
Toxicity
Overdosing on lorazepam can be dangerous and may result in respiratory depression, coma, or death.
Precautions
Before taking lorazepam, it is important to inform your doctor of your full medical history as well as any medications that you are currently taking. People with certain medical conditions, such as severe liver or kidney disease, may not be able to take lorazepam.
Interactions
Lorazepam may interact with a variety of medications, including antihistamines, antidepressants, and antipsychotics. It can also interact with alcohol, as well as certain herbal supplements.
Disease Interactions
Lorazepam should be used with caution in people with certain underlying illnesses, such as glaucoma, asthma, or depression. It can also affect people with liver or kidney disease, or chronic respiratory diseases.
Drug Interactions
Lorazepam should not be used in combination with certain other medications and substances, including alcohol and certain opioids.
Food Interactions
Food does not appear to significantly affect the absorption of lorazepam.
Pregnancy Use
Lorazepam is a category D drug in pregnant women and should not be taken during pregnancy. If taken in the third trimester, it may cause neonatal respiratory depression.
Lactation Use
It is not known if lorazepam is excreted into human milk. Therefore, breastfeeding is usually not recommended during treatment with lorazepam.
Acute Overdose
Signs and symptoms of acute overdose with lorazepam include confusion, impaired coordination, oversedation, and respiratory depression. If overdose occurs, contact a poison control center immediately.
Contraindications
Lorazepam is contraindicated in people with a known hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines. It should not be taken by people with a history of drug abuse.
Use Directions
Lorazepam should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than the prescribed dose. Do not stop taking the medication suddenly as this may cause withdrawal symptoms.
Storage Condition
Lorazepam should be stored in a cool, dry place at room temperature and protected from light.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution (Vd) is the amount of lorazepam that enters the bloodstream after being administered. The Vd of lorazepam is 1-2 L/kg.
Half Life
The half-life of lorazepam is 12-18 hours. This indicates how long it takes for the drug to be reduced by half in your system.
Clearance
The clearance of lorazepam is 0.5-1 L/hr/kg. This indicates how quickly the drug is eliminated from your system.
See in details version Lorazepam also Lorazepam in bangla
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Lorazepam
Prof. Dr. Haradhan Deb Nath
Brain Tumor, Spine Surgery & Pediatric Neurosurgery Specialist
