Although effective in calming anxiety and controlling seizures, lorazepam also carries side effects and a risk of addiction.
In doctors’ offices, lorazepam often appears as a quick fix to relieve anxiety, control panic attacks, or facilitate sleep on sleepless nights.
However, behind its effectiveness lies a risk that is not always apparent at first glance: the possibility of creating physical and psychological dependence.
The drug belongs to the family of benzodiazepines, compounds that act on the central nervous system by enhancing the action of the neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid).
This mechanism slows neuronal hyperactivity and triggers calmness, drowsiness, and muscle relaxation. According to the Mayo Clinic, its effects appear between 20 and 40 minutes after oral ingestion and can last for 6 to 8 hours.
More than an anxiolytic: the clinical uses of lorazepam
Although most associate it solely with the treatment of anxiety, lorazepam has multiple medical applications.
- Anxiety and panic disorders: The U.S. National Library of Medicine indicates that it is used for acute attacks, but not as a long-term treatment.
- Insomnia linked to anxiety: helps you fall asleep when sleeplessness is related to episodes of anxiety, although it is not indicated for chronic insomnia.
- Preoperative: In hospitals, it is administered before surgery to reduce nervousness and facilitate mild sedation.
- Seizures: In emergencies, intravenous administration is effective against prolonged epileptic seizures.
- Alcohol withdrawal syndrome: helps control tremors, agitation, and risk of seizures in patients undergoing detoxification.
Side effects: from fatigue to danger
Lorazepam, like other benzodiazepines, is not without risks. The most common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, muscle weakness, and confusion. However, in severe cases, it can cause breathing difficulties, intense emotional disturbances, suicidal thoughts, or severe allergic reactions.
The Mayo Clinic warns that continued use increases tolerance, requires increasing doses, and promotes dependence. Stopping the drug abruptly can trigger withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, severe insomnia, palpitations, or even seizures.
Contraindications and precautions
The medication is not suitable for all patients. It is contraindicated in people with benzodiazepine allergies, severe respiratory failure, alcohol or other depressant use, and those diagnosed with myasthenia gravis.
It should be used with special caution in older adults, pregnant or breastfeeding women, patients with depression, and people with a history of addiction.
Is lorazepam addictive?
The answer is yes. Even at therapeutic doses and for relatively short periods—more than two consecutive weeks—dependence can develop. Therefore, experts recommend against self-medicating and always following a medical tapering plan when discontinuing.
Dangerous interactions and safe alternatives
Lorazepam may enhance the sedative effects of alcohol, opioids, antidepressants, antihistamines, and other anxiolytics, increasing the risk of respiratory depression or coma.
As alternatives, specialists suggest options such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, SSRI antidepressants, relaxation techniques, exercise, and improved sleep hygiene. Even some natural remedies, such as valerian or passionflower, may be helpful under professional guidance.
A useful resource, but with limits
Lorazepam can be an effective ally in treating anxiety attacks, anxiety-related insomnia, or specific clinical episodes. However, its abuse or prolonged unsupervised use can turn it into an invisible trap. The key lies in medical vigilance and recognizing that, beyond immediate relief, the medication requires responsible use.