Lorazepam was first introduced by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals in 1971 under the brand names of Ativan and Temesta.

Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild anxiety and insomnia to more severe symptoms such as seizures and psychosis. Lorazepam injectable solution is administered either by deep intramuscular injection or by intravenous injection. On regular administration, maximum lorazepam serum levels are attained after three days. Such allegations may arise because of incomplete amnesia, disinhibition, and impaired ability to process cues. edit WithdrawalOn abrupt, or overly rapid discontinuation of lorazepam, anxiety and signs of physical withdrawal have been observed, similar to those seen on withdrawal from alcohol and barbiturates. Staff must use chaperones to guard against allegations of abuse during treatment. Opportunistic counseling has limited value here, as the patient is unlikely to recall this later, owing to drug-induced anterograde amnesia. Benzodiazepines can cause or worsen depression. 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. The higher doses and the longer periods benzodiazepines are taken increase the risk of developing a benzodiazepine dependence.