Lorazepam Research Paper

Lorazepam (Ativan) Lorazepam is indicated for the management of anxiety disorders or the short-term (up to 4 months) relief of the symptoms of anxiety or anxiety associated with depressive symptoms in adults (“Lorazepam/ATIVAN”, 2012, p. 1). Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine anxiolytic and work by interacting with benzodiazepine receptors (Preston et al., 2013, p. 218). “Benzodiazepine receptors are co-located with GABA receptors, which usually function as presynaptic inhibiting receptors” (Preston et al., 2013, p. 218; McRay et al., 2016, p.177). Benzodiazepines are sometimes referred to as minor tranquilizers or sedatives (Kring & Johnson, 2016, p. 197). Lorazepam is also used for the treatment of insomnia due to anxiety or transient situational …show more content…
It is important to encourage patients to take the medication long enough to get the benefits (Preston et al., 2013, p. 224). This is especially important for individuals who might be looking for a quick fix. Additionally, “Patients who have been on the medications for some time need to be advised against abrupt discontinuation, which can lead to a severe withdrawal syndrome and possible convulsions” (Preston et al., 2013, p. 224). Individuals decreasing the medication could experience an emergence of anxiety symptoms for which the person is being treated (Preston et al., 2013, p. 224). These side effects are the main reason why it is best to taper off benzodiazepine dosage very …show more content…
However, prolonged use may lead to tolerance and dependence” (Preston et al., 2013, p. 222). “Lorazepam may have abuse potential, especially in patients with a history of drug or alcohol abuse” (“Lorazepam/ATIVAN”, 2012, p. 1; Ghinassi, 2010, p. 100). Patients should be cautioned about the risk of dependence and the dangers of combining these drugs with alcohol and the possible impairment of coordination (Preston et al., 2013, p. 223). Research has shown that an increased risk of relapse and medication dependency can occur if benzodiazepines are used long-term (Ghinassi, 2010, p. 100). Perkins et al. (2013), note a unique perspective whether anti-anxiety drugs cause their effects by altering anxiety or through general emotional and cognitive alteration (p. 613). Perkins et al. (2016) are questioning if medications like Lorazepam impair the moral judgment of

Show More