Lorazepam in Pregnancy — Is It Safe?
Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database
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Lorazepam should be avoided in pregnancy — benzodiazepines cause neonatal withdrawal syndrome and floppy infant syndrome near delivery.
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Is it safe to take Lorazepam with Pregnancy?
Lorazepam and all benzodiazepines are generally avoided in pregnancy. Chronic use leads to fetal dependence and neonatal benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome after birth. Use near delivery causes floppy infant syndrome (hypotonia, respiratory depression, hypothermia). If acute seizure or severe anxiety requires benzodiazepine treatment in pregnancy, it is given under medical supervision as a one-off at the lowest effective dose.
How do Lorazepam and Pregnancy interact?
Benzodiazepines readily cross the placenta; the fetus lacks the hepatic enzyme maturity to clear them. Lorazepam is glucuronidated — relatively less affected by fetal CYP immaturity than diazepam, but still accumulates. Neonatal withdrawal: 24-72 hours after birth. Floppy infant syndrome: within hours of delivery.
Data sourced from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) drug label database: OpenFDA lorazepam label — neonatal withdrawal and floppy infant warnings.
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All pregnant women. Women on regular lorazepam (anxiety, epilepsy) should not stop suddenly — seek urgent GP review for a managed plan.
What if I've already taken Lorazepam and Pregnancy?
Do not stop suddenly. Contact your GP for a planned taper or alternative. Tell your delivery team about lorazepam use.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take lorazepam while pregnant?
No — avoid it. Benzodiazepines cause neonatal withdrawal and floppy infant syndrome. Never stop suddenly without medical guidance.
What is floppy infant syndrome?
Hypotonia, respiratory depression and lethargy in newborns exposed to benzodiazepines near delivery. Requires neonatal monitoring but resolves as the drug clears.
What can I take for anxiety in pregnancy?
CBT and psychological therapies are first-line. Discuss medication options with your perinatal mental health team.
I'm on lorazepam and just found out I'm pregnant — what do I do?
Do not stop suddenly. Contact your GP this week to plan a safe taper or switch. Abrupt withdrawal can cause seizures.