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Lorazepam

This document summarizes key information about the medication lorazepam (Ativan). It is a benzodiazepine antianxiety agent that works by potentiating the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA in the central nervous system. It has a rapid onset of 15-60 minutes with peak effects in 1-6 minutes and a duration of action of 8-12 hours. The normal dosage is 1-2mg orally as needed, not to exceed 44mcg/kg. Side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, and lethargy. Nurses should assess a patient's anxiety levels before and during therapy and monitor for adverse effects like excessive sedation.

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Michael Kuzbyt
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2K views1 page

Lorazepam

This document summarizes key information about the medication lorazepam (Ativan). It is a benzodiazepine antianxiety agent that works by potentiating the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA in the central nervous system. It has a rapid onset of 15-60 minutes with peak effects in 1-6 minutes and a duration of action of 8-12 hours. The normal dosage is 1-2mg orally as needed, not to exceed 44mcg/kg. Side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, and lethargy. Nurses should assess a patient's anxiety levels before and during therapy and monitor for adverse effects like excessive sedation.

Uploaded by

Michael Kuzbyt
Copyright
© Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOC, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Clinical Medications Worksheets Generic Name Trade Name lorazepam Ativan Peak 1-6 min Onset 15-60 min

Classification Dose Route Benzodiazepines 1-2mg PO antianxiety agents, sedative/hypnotics Duration Normal dosage range 8-12 hr 44mcg/kg (not to exceed 2mg) Time/frequency PRN

Why is your patient getting this medication management of anxiety, pain Mechanism of action and indications (Why med ordered) Depresses the CNS, probably by potentiating GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter Indicated for patients with anxiety

For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and/or solutions N/A Nursing Implications (what to focus on) Contraindications/warnings/interactions Hypersensitivity, Cross-sensitivity with other benzodiazepines may exist. Lower doses recommended for geriatric or debilitated patients. Common side effects dizziness, drowsiness, lethargy, apnea, cardiac arrest

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal medicines (ask patient specifically) None for this pt

Nursing Process- Assessment (Pre-administration assessment) Assess degree and manifestations of anxiety prior to and periodically throughout therapy

Lab value alterations caused by medicine Patients on high-dose therapy should receive routine evaluation of renal, hepatic, and hematologic function Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication May cause drowsiness or dizziness Assessment Evaluation Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving med? Decrease in subjective Troublesome occurrence of adverse feelings of anxiety without side effects excessive sedation

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