lorazepam /lôrā″zəpam/ , a benzodiazepine tranquilizer. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed in the treatment of anxiety, nervous tension, and insomnia and is given intravenously to abort status epilepticus and for preanesthesia. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Acute glaucoma, psychosis, pregnancy, or known hypersensitivity to this drug or to any benzodiazepine prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more serious adverse effects are drowsiness and fatigue. Withdrawal symptoms may occur on discontinuation of the drug, especially after prolonged use or high dosage.
