Lorazepam: What It Does and How to Use It Safely

Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine many doctors prescribe for short-term anxiety relief, panic attacks, and trouble sleeping. It starts working faster than many antidepressants used for anxiety, which is why people notice relief quickly. That speed is useful but comes with real risks, including sedation, dependence, and withdrawal if used long-term or stopped suddenly.

How to take lorazepam

Lorazepam comes as a tablet and as an injection. Most people take it by mouth in doses from 0.5 mg to 2 mg, usually once to three times a day depending on the problem. For panic attacks doctors may give a single higher dose; for ongoing anxiety they aim for the lowest effective dose and short duration.

Take it exactly as your prescriber tells you. Don’t split doses to use more often, and don’t mix it with alcohol. With the oral form you’ll usually feel effects within 20–60 minutes; plan your activities accordingly. If you’re given the IV form in a hospital, that’s for emergency situations like severe seizures or agitation.

Risks, interactions, and withdrawal

Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, light-headedness, and slowed coordination. Combining lorazepam with opioids, alcohol, or other sedatives can dangerously slow breathing. Tell your provider about all meds and supplements you take.

Using lorazepam for weeks or months can lead to tolerance and physical dependence. Stopping it suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms like anxiety rebound, tremors, sweating, or, rarely, seizures. If you need to stop, your doctor should provide a slow taper plan to lower the dose step by step.

Special groups need extra care: older adults are more prone to falls and confusion and usually need lower doses. Pregnant or breastfeeding people should avoid lorazepam unless a doctor says it’s necessary—there can be risks to the baby.

If you worry about long-term anxiety treatment, ask about alternatives. SSRIs or SNRIs are safer for long-term control. Buspirone and certain therapy approaches (like CBT) can also help without the dependence risk.

Store lorazepam in a secure place away from children and pets. Keep track of your pills so you notice any missing doses. Use only pharmacies you trust and never share your medication. If you buy online, pick a licensed pharmacy that requires a prescription.

Call your doctor or 911 if you have severe drowsiness, breathing trouble, fainting, or a serious allergic reaction. If you’re having trouble with sleep, anxiety, or signs of dependence, talk to your provider right away—there are clear steps to reduce risk and switch to safer options when needed.