Lorazepam — Drug Interactions, Alcohol & Pregnancy Guide
Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database · 247CanITakeWith Editorial Team
- Lorazepam is a Benzodiazepine used for Acute anxiety.
- Alcohol: Never mix lorazepam and alcohol — both depress the CNS and together can cause respiratory failure and death.
- Pregnancy: Lorazepam should be avoided in pregnancy — benzodiazepines cause neonatal withdrawal syndrome and floppy infant syndrome near delivery.
About Lorazepam
Lorazepam is a potent short-acting benzodiazepine. It is often used for acute anxiety and status epilepticus. Like all benzodiazepines, it is dangerous with alcohol and carries dependence risk.
Also sold as: Ativan
Lorazepam at a glance
Lorazepam is classed as benzodiazepine and is used for acute anxiety, status epilepticus, procedure sedation, nausea from chemotherapy. It is a prescription medicine, so doses and combinations should always be agreed with your prescriber or pharmacist.
Typical adult dosing guidance: 0.5-4mg depending on indication. Your own label or prescription always takes priority over general figures.
Interactions most often flagged
- Alcohol
- Opioids
- Pregnancy
Before you combine Lorazepam with anything new
- Read the patient information leaflet for both products.
- Keep one up-to-date list of every medicine and supplement you take.
- Ask a pharmacist — it is free and takes a couple of minutes.
- Seek urgent medical help if you feel seriously unwell after combining medicines.
Lorazepam and Alcohol
Never mix lorazepam and alcohol — both depress the CNS and together can cause respiratory failure and death.
Full guide →Lorazepam in Pregnancy
Lorazepam should be avoided in pregnancy — benzodiazepines cause neonatal withdrawal syndrome and floppy infant syndrome near delivery.
Full guide →More in this category: anxiolytics
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lorazepam used for?
Lorazepam is a Benzodiazepine used for Acute anxiety, Status epilepticus, Procedure sedation, Nausea from chemotherapy.
What is the maximum adult dose of Lorazepam?
The maximum adult dose is 0.5-4mg depending on indication. This is general guidance — always follow the dose on your prescription or product label, and check with a pharmacist if you're unsure.
Can I drink alcohol with Lorazepam?
Never mix lorazepam and alcohol — both depress the CNS and together can cause respiratory failure and death.
Is Lorazepam safe to take during pregnancy?
Lorazepam should be avoided in pregnancy — benzodiazepines cause neonatal withdrawal syndrome and floppy infant syndrome near delivery.
Is Lorazepam available over the counter in the UK?
Lorazepam is prescription-only in the UK.
What should I check before taking Lorazepam with other medicines?
The interactions most often flagged for Lorazepam are: alcohol, opioids, pregnancy. Tell your pharmacist or prescriber about everything you take, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, before combining it with anything new.
What are the brand names for Lorazepam?
Lorazepam is sold under brand names including Ativan. The active ingredient is the same, so check labels carefully to avoid doubling up on it.
Do I need a prescription for Lorazepam?
Lorazepam is a prescription medicine, so take it exactly as your prescriber directed and ask them before changing the dose.
Not sure if Lorazepam is safe with your other medications?
HealthLabs.com lets you check liver enzyme or kidney function levels before combining medications long-term — no GP referral needed.
Check your levels at HealthLabs →Always speak to your pharmacist or GP for personalised medical advice. Affiliate link — we may earn a commission.