Lorazepam: Uses, Side Effects, Dependence and Treatment

What Is Lorazepam?

Lorazepam is a prescription-only medicine belonging to the benzodiazepine group of medicines. Across the EU, lorazepam is used for the short-term management of anxiety disorders, severe agitation, and insomnia related to anxiety. It may also be used in hospital settings for status epilepticus, sedation, or pre-operative anxiety.

It works by enhancing the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that helps calm activity in the brain.

What Is it Prescribed For?

For Anxiety

It is most commonly prescribed for the short-term relief of severe anxiety or anxiety associated with acute stress.

It may help to:

• Reduce feelings of anxiety or panic

• Promote relaxation

• Improve sleep disrupted by anxiety

It is usually prescribed for short durations only, due to the risk of dependence.

Other Medical Uses.

Lorazepam may also be prescribed for:

• Severe agitation

• Acute insomnia related to anxiety

• Management of seizures, including status epilepticus

• Pre-operative or procedural sedation

Use is always guided by clinical assessment and specialist oversight.

How it Works

Lorazepam enhances the action of GABA, a naturally occurring chemical in the brain that reduces nerve activity. This results in:

• Sedative effects

• Reduced anxiety

• Muscle relaxation

• Anticonvulsant activity

Because this medication acts relatively quickly, it can be effective in acute situations but also carries a risk of misuse.

Side Effects.

Common Side Effects

Some people may experience side effects, particularly when starting treatment, including:

• Drowsiness or sedation

• Dizziness

• Fatigue

• Reduced alertness

• Muscle weakness

• Confusion, especially in older adults

Serious Side Effects

Less common but serious side effects include:

• Breathing difficulties

• Severe drowsiness or unresponsiveness

• Memory problems

• Paradoxical agitation or aggression

• Increased risk of falls

Medical advice should be sought if serious symptoms occur.

Lorazepam Misuse and Dependence

It can cause physical and psychological dependence, particularly if taken:

• For longer than prescribed

• At higher doses

• Without medical supervision

Tolerance may develop, meaning higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect. Long-term use can lead to difficulty stopping the medication.

Lorazepam Withdrawal

Stopping it suddenly can result in withdrawal symptoms, which may include:

• Increased anxiety or panic

• Sleep disturbances

• Irritability

• Tremors

• Sweating

• Headaches

• In severe cases, seizures

For this reason, this medication should always be reduced gradually under medical supervision.

Treatment for Lorazepam Dependence

Medically Supervised Tapering

Where dependence has developed, treatment usually involves a gradual dose reduction (tapering) plan. This may include:

• Slow, controlled reduction

• Monitoring of withdrawal symptoms

• Support from healthcare professionals

Tapering schedules are personalized based on dose, duration of use, and individual health needs.

Psychological and Supportive Therapies

Treatment may also include:

• Psychological therapies for anxiety

• Education on coping strategies

• Support for sleep and stress management

Dual Diagnosis Care

Some individuals who develop dependence on lorazepam may also experience underlying conditions such as:

• Generalized anxiety disorder

• Depression

• PTSD

• Insomnia

Dual diagnosis care ensures that both the medication dependence and the underlying mental health condition are treated together.

Ongoing Care and Recovery

Ongoing care may involve:

• Regular review by a healthcare professional

• Non-medication treatments for anxiety or sleep problems

• Gradual transition to alternative therapies where appropriate

Long-term follow-up helps reduce the risk of relapse and supports overall wellbeing.

When to Seek Help

If you are concerned about lorazepam use, side effects or dependence, speak with a healthcare professional. Early support can help prevent complications and improve treatment outcomes.

Help is available across EU healthcare systems through primary care providers, mental health services and specialist clinics.