ABSTRACT
Lorazepam intravenous pharmacotherapy usually is indicated for the initial control of seizures among patients who have status epilepticus. The intravenous injection of lorazepam should not exceed a rate of 2 mg/minute. Availability of appropriate emergency equipment and properly trained personnel must be assured prior to the intravenous administration of lorazepam because of the possibility of heavy sedation and associated partial airway obstruction. In addition to the injectable formulation, lorazepam is available in various other dosage forms including a concentrated oral solution, oral tablets, and sublingual tablets. Lorazepam has anticonvulsant, anxiolytic, and sedative actions. The exact mechanisms of these actions have not yet been fully determined. Lorazepam is well absorbed following oral ingestion with a mean bioavailability of 93%. Peak blood concentrations of lorazepam are achieved within 2 hours after oral ingestion and 60 minutes after sublingual placement. Lorazepam pharmacotherapy commonly has been associated with dizziness, drowsiness, sedation, unsteadiness, and weakness.
