Overview Of Lorazepam

Medication Interactions

Lorazepam interacts with other benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam, as well as with opioids. Due to the risk of medication interactions, lorazepam should not be used with pain relievers or cough medicines containing codeine or hydrocodone. It should not be used with other medicines that cause sedation. Examples include some antidepressants, antipsychotics, and antihistamines. Experts advise against using lorazepam with muscle relaxants, such as carisoprodol. It has strong interactions with kava, clozapine, and sodium oxybate (GHB) as well.

Patients should inform their medical team about all medications they take, including over-the-counter medicines, prescriptions, herbal and natural remedies, vitamins, and supplements. This will help them avoid complications from potential medication interactions. Doctors should check the patient's medication list for potential interactions before prescribing lorazepam. The pharmacist should also check for interactions before dispensing this medication.

Common Dosage Recommendations

Anxiety disorder patients are typically prescribed two to three milligrams of lorazepam every eight to twelve hours. Some patients may need a maintenance dose of up to six milligrams. In most cases, patients cannot exceed ten milligrams daily. Individuals who are given this medication as a sedative before surgery often receive 0.05 milligrams per kilogram of their body weight. A doctor or nurse will provide this medication as an intramuscular injection around two hours before the patient’s operation. Alternatively, a dose of 0.044 milligrams per kilogram of body weight can be administered intravenously fifteen to twenty minutes before surgery.

Some patients can receive this medication for short-term insomnia. In this case, they often receive two to four milligrams before bed. Of course, patients must talk to their doctor about this medication first. Their doctor will determine the most appropriate dose for their needs.