Ativan (Lorazepam)

Anticonvulsant,sedative,and hypnotic

Benzodiazepine bind to specific sites on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) Type A receptors within the brain. GABA is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter of the central nervous system. Increased GABA levels cause sedation.

Lorazepam is the most potent benzodiazepine available. It has strong antianxiety, sedative, hypnotic, and skeletal muscle relaxant properties, and a relatively short half-life

• Onset: IV 1-5min / IM 15-30min
• Peak: IV 15-20min / IM 2 hours
• Duration: 6-8 hours
• Half Life: 10-20 hours

Used in major motor seizures, in status epilepticus, as premedication before cardioversion, and acute anxiety states.

Hypersensitivity to drug, Hypotension

Should be diluted in with normal saline or d5w prior to IV administration. Due to short-acting half life of the drug seizures may recur. Additional dose may be required.

Amnesia, blurred vision, drowsiness, hallucinations, tachycardia, headache, hypotension, nausea, respiratory depression, vomiting

• Adult: IV 0.5-2.0mg / IM 1-4mg
• Pedi: .05-.10mg/kg max 4mg

PRN

IV, IM, IO

Vials