Although lorazepam is not necessarily better than diazepam at initially terminating seizures, lorazepam is, nevertheless, replacing diazepam as the intravenous agent of choice in status epilepticus.

Increasing the dose may overcome tolerance, but tolerance may then develop to the higher dose and adverse effects may persist and worsen. Its relatively potent amnesic effect, with its anxiolytic and sedative effects, makes lorazepam useful as premedication. Before taking Ativan, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:* glaucoma; * asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), or other breathing problems; * kidney or liver disease; * a history of depression or suicidal thoughts or behavior; or * a history of drug or alcohol addiction. This medication can increase the effects of alcohol. Due to tolerance and dependence, lorazepam is recommended for short-term use, 2–4 weeks only. government study of pharmaceutical-related ED visits by SAMHSA found that sedative-hypnotics in the United States are the pharmaceuticals most frequently used outside of their prescribed medical purpose, with 35% of drug-related emergency room visits involving sedative-hypnotics. Do not use Ativan if you are pregnant. 9%), weakness (4. Benzodiazepines should not be administered to already-ataxic patients. How should I take Ativan?Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you.