LORAZEPAM (Ativan®)

Question 1

Generic/Trade Name

LORAZEPAM

Answer 1

Ativan®

Question 2

Generic/Trade Name

Ativan®

Answer 2

LORAZEPAM

Question 3

LORAZEPAM (Ativan®)

Drug Classification:

Answer 3

Anticonvulsant

Benzodiazepine

Sedative

Hypnotic

Question 4

LORAZEPAM (Ativan®)

Mechanism of Action:

Answer 4

Positive allosteric modulator for GABAA receptors ⇒ Binds to benzo receptor siteon chloride channels and potentiates binding and effects of GABA

(increases intracellular Cl- concentration leading to hyperpolarization of the cell)

Question 5

LORAZEPAM (Ativan®)

Pharmacokinetics

Answer 5

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 6

LORAZEPAM (Ativan®)

Indications & Contraindications

Answer 6

Indications/Field Use:
• Major motor seizures
• Pre-medication for cardioversion
• Acute anxiety

Contraindications:
Hx Hypersensitivity

Question 7

LORAZEPAM (Ativan®)

Side Effects/Adverse Reactions:

Answer 7

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

Question 8

LORAZEPAM (Ativan®)

Adult & Pedi Dose:

Answer 8

(ADULT): 0.5-2mg (0.1mg/kg) IV, IO

(ADULT): 1-4mg IM

(PEDI): 0.05mg/kg IV, IO

Question 9

LORAZEPAM (Ativan®)

Precautions:

Answer 9

Have benzo antagonist available

Question 10

LORAZEPAM (Ativan®)

Drug-Drug Interactions:

Answer 10

Additive effects with CNS depressants and alcohol