Ativan (Lorazepam) lindsey adelson

Question 1

Drug Classification

Answer 1

Anticonvulsant, sedative, hypnotic, benzodiazepine

Question 2

Mechanism of Action

Answer 2

Positive allosteric modulator for GABAa receptors->binds to benzo receptor site on chloride channels and potentiates binding and effects of GABA (increases intracellular Cl- concentration leading to hyperpolarization of the cell

Question 3

Pharmacokinetics

• onset of action
• peak effects
• duration of effects
• half life

Answer 3

• Onset of action- 1-5 minutes IV, 15-30 minutes IM
• Peak effects- 15-20 minutes IV, 2 hours IM
• Duration of effect- 6-8 hours
• Half life- 10-20 hours

Question 4

Indications/Field Use

Answer 4

• Major motor seizures
• Pre-medication for cardioversion or TCP
• Acute anxiety
• Alcohol withdrawal/delirium tremens
• Post intubation sedation

Question 5

Contraindications

Answer 5

Hypersensitivity

Question 6

Side effects/adverse reactions

Answer 6

Hypotension, drowsiness, amnesia, respiratory depression, blurred vision, AMS, N+V

Question 7

Dose

Answer 7

Adult:
      Seizure:
             4mg IV/IO
      Pre-medication/anxiety/withdrawal:   
             0.5-2mg slow IV
             1-4mg IM
      Post intubation:
              2-4mg slow IV/IO q-every 5-10 minutes

Pedi:
0.05mg/kg slow IV/IO

Question 8

Precautions

Answer 8

• May cause CNS and respiratory depression

- Caution with acute alcohol intoxication

Question 9

Drug-drug interactions

Answer 9

Additive effects with CNS depressants and alcohol