Ativan (lorazepam) belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines. It is thought that benzodiazepines work by enhancing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. Ativan is used in adults and children at least 12 years old to treat anxiety disorders. Lorazepam (Ativan) is a medication that treats anxiety. It helps your nervous system slow down. Lorazepam, sold under the brand name Ativan among others, is a benzodiazepine medication. [15] It is used to treat anxiety (including anxiety disorders), insomnia, severe agitation, active seizures including status epilepticus, alcohol withdrawal, and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. [15] Ativan (lorazepam) is a prescription medication used for anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. Learn about side effects, dosage, uses, and more. What Is Ativan? Ativan is the brand name for lorazepam, a prescription medication commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, panic attacks, insomnia, and sometimes alcohol withdrawal. Ativan is part of a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, sometimes referred to as tranquilizers. Ativan, with the active ingredient lorazepam, is a short to intermediate-acting benzodiazepine for adults. Doses range from 1 mg to 10 mg a day. Ativan can be given once daily or every 4-6 hours as needed. Ativan uses include the management of anxiety disorders or tension. Lorazepam is used to treat anxiety disorders. It is also used for short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety or anxiety caused by depression. Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine that works in the brain to relieve symptoms of anxiety. Benzodiazepines are central nervous system (CNS) depressants, which are medicines that slow down the nervous system. Ativan (lorazepam) is indicated for the management of anxiety disorders or for the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety or anxiety associated with depressive symptoms. Anxiety or tension associated with the stress of everyday life usually does not require treatment with an anxiolytic. Lorazepam comes in a few oral forms. These include an immediate-release tablet (Ativan) and a liquid (Lorazepam Intensol). It’s also available as an extended-release capsule (Loreev XR). If you take lorazepam, there are some common side effects and more serious risks to be aware of. Find patient medical information for Lorazepam (Ativan, Loreev XR) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings.