Lorazepam’s Clinical Use and Consequences
With the recent release of the TV Series White Lotus Season 3– this time featuring a subplot centered around Lorazepam abuse– the show spotlights a growing concern in clinical medicine and public health.
Lorazepam, sold under the brand name Ativan, is a prescription medication classified as a benzodiazepine. Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs that slow down the central nervous system, causing the body to feel relaxed, and are often used to relieve feelings of anxiety. Lorazepam is only Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approved for short-term use in clinical settings to treat anxiety disorders (typically for no longer than four months), anxiety-related insomnia, acute seizures, and as a premedication before anesthesia to reduce anxiety and help patients feel calm prior to surgical procedures. Like other drugs in its class, Lorazepam works by boosting the effects of a natural chemical in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid, GABA. GABA helps slow down brain activity, which makes people feel calmer and more relaxed.
Lorazepam, sold under the brand name Ativan, is a prescription medication classified as a benzodiazepine. Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs that slow down the central nervous system, causing the body to feel relaxed, and are often used to relieve feelings of anxiety. Lorazepam is only Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approved for short-term use in clinical settings to treat anxiety disorders (typically for no longer than four months), anxiety-related insomnia, acute seizures, and as a premedication before anesthesia to reduce anxiety and help patients feel calm prior to surgical procedures. Like other drugs in its class, Lorazepam works by boosting the effects of a natural chemical in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid, GABA. GABA helps slow down brain activity, which makes people feel calmer and more relaxed.
Lorazepam, commonly used to alleviate anxiety symptoms, is known for its rapid onset of action.
Image Source: Liza Summer
Due to its fast-acting and powerful calming effects, Lorazepam is highly effective for short-term symptom relief. When taken by mouth, it typically begins working within 15 to 30 minutes and lasts for 10 to 20 hours. However, these same properties also make it more likely to be misused. Some people may begin using Lorazepam more often or in higher doses than prescribed in an attempt to manage everyday stress or emotional discomfort. Over time, the body can build a tolerance– meaning higher doses are needed to feel the same effects. This can lead to physical dependence, and in some cases, addiction.
Lorazepam can cause a range of side effects, including dizziness, confusion, and memory problems. At higher doses or with long-term use, more serious risks include depression, dependence, seizures, and suicidality. It can also interact dangerously with other depressants such as alcohol, opioids, and certain medications, increasing the risk of overdose. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, close to 11,000 overdose deaths in the United States in 2022 involved benzodiazepines– many of them in combination with opioids, another class of drugs.
The depiction of Lorazepam misuse in White Lotus Season 3 mirrors broader trends observed in clinical practice and public health. While Lorazepam remains a useful short-term treatment for anxiety, seizures, and procedural sedation, its properties make it susceptible to misuse and dependency. As prescribing patterns and public perceptions evolve, understanding the misuse potential of Lorazepam remains a critical area of focus.
Lorazepam can cause a range of side effects, including dizziness, confusion, and memory problems. At higher doses or with long-term use, more serious risks include depression, dependence, seizures, and suicidality. It can also interact dangerously with other depressants such as alcohol, opioids, and certain medications, increasing the risk of overdose. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, close to 11,000 overdose deaths in the United States in 2022 involved benzodiazepines– many of them in combination with opioids, another class of drugs.
The depiction of Lorazepam misuse in White Lotus Season 3 mirrors broader trends observed in clinical practice and public health. While Lorazepam remains a useful short-term treatment for anxiety, seizures, and procedural sedation, its properties make it susceptible to misuse and dependency. As prescribing patterns and public perceptions evolve, understanding the misuse potential of Lorazepam remains a critical area of focus.
Featured Image Source: Anna Shvets
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