Lorazepam, sold under the brand name Ativan among others, is a medication of the benzodiazepine and depressant category. [15] It inhibits activity of the central nervous system, and has anxiolytic and hypnotic effects. 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 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. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription. Lorazepam is FDA-approved to treat status epilepticus. Learn how this injectable drug is used in emergency seizure management and rapid response. 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. Lorazepam is used in adults and children at least 12 years old to treat anxiety disorders. How long does it take for lorazepam to work? When starting lorazepam, anxiety or insomnia may improve rapidly or over a period of days or within hours of the first dose of medication. Find patient medical information for Lorazepam (Ativan, Loreev XR) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings Lorazepam is used for the management of anxiety disorders, the short-term relief of symptoms of anxiety or anxiety associated with depression. Lorazepam is effective for panic attacks, short-term and long-term treatment of insomnia and is used in combination with other medications to prevent nausea and vomiting resulting from chemotherapy. Lorazepam is used for the short-term treatment of anxiety disorders or the temporary relief of anxiety symptoms associated with depression. Typical dosage: Most adults take 2 to 6 mg per day in. Lorazepam is a prescription medical treatment used to manage anxiety. Lorazepam belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines which act on the brain and nerves (central nervous system) to produce a calming effect that relieves symptoms of anxiety.