Lorazepam (Rapid Tranquillisation)

Psychiatry

Psychiatry · Benzodiazepine

Lorazepam (Rapid Tranquillisation)

Dose

1–2 mg PO/IM, repeat after 45–60 min; max 4 mg/24 h in elderly, 8 mg otherwise.

Use

Acute behavioural disturbance, catatonia, alcohol withdrawal adjunct.

Monitoring

Sedation score, RR, SpO₂, BP every 15 min after IM; flumazenil available.

Side effects

  • Respiratory depression
  • Over-sedation
  • Paradoxical disinhibition

Related in WardRound

Always confirm dose against your local formulary / BNF before prescribing.

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