Ativan
(Lorazepam)
Ativan is a benzodiazepine that acts quickly and powerfully to relieve acute anxiety, panic attacks, and seizures. It is a controlled substance and is typically prescribed for short-term or as-needed use due to its potential for dependence.
Most patients pay less than $20 per appointment.
Ativan works by enhancing the effect of GABA, a calming neurotransmitter in the brain. Its active ingredient, lorazepam, is one of the most commonly used medications for acute anxiety situations and is standard care in emergency settings. Due to dependence risk, it is prescribed with careful oversight and is not typically intended for long-term daily use.
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Komal is an LGBTQ+ affirming psychiatrist who works with queer, trans, and gender-expansive adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and identity. She offers a space where your full self is welcome, and brings real understanding to the intersection of queerness, culture, and mental health.
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Adam Butera
Adam is an LGBTQ+ affirming psychiatrist with 23 years in private practice, offering care for depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, addiction, and ADHD. He takes time to understand each person as a whole human being, working with adolescents, adults, and seniors across diverse backgrounds.
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Ativan (lorazepam) is used for anxiety, panic disorder, seizures, alcohol withdrawal management, and short-term insomnia. It is frequently used in clinical settings for pre-procedure sedation.
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Ativan carries a significant risk of physical dependence when used regularly. It is a Schedule IV controlled substance. Your psychiatrist will discuss appropriate use and duration carefully.
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Ativan typically begins working within 15–30 minutes when taken orally, making it effective for acute anxiety and panic.
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Sedation, dizziness, memory impairment, and coordination problems. It should never be combined with alcohol or other CNS depressants.
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No — Ativan significantly impairs coordination and reaction time. Do not drive or operate machinery after taking it.
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Long-term daily use is generally not recommended due to dependence risk and tolerance. Your psychiatrist will discuss the appropriate length of use and a tapering plan.
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Stopping Ativan abruptly can cause serious withdrawal symptoms, including seizures. Always taper under medical supervision — never stop suddenly on your own.
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Book a free consult at Outspace. Our psychiatrists will thoroughly assess whether Ativan is appropriate and discuss safe, responsible use.