Lorazepam as a Treatment for Schizophrenia

Lorazepam may be used for the treatment of catatonic schizophrenia, as well as agitation in other forms of schizophrenia.

Definition

• Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder that can involve hallucinations, delusions and disorganized thoughts, as well as speech, cognitive and movement disorders. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, the cause of schizophrenia is uncertain, though genetics, brain chemistry and environment may be factors.

Treatment

• Symptoms of schizophrenia may be treated by antipsychotics, atypical antipsychotics and some form of psychotherapy. According to MayoClinic.com, catatonic schizophrenia may be treated with benzodiazepine medications, such as lorazepam.

Lorazepam

• Lorazepam is used for the treatment of anxiety, and may also be used to treat insomnia, panic attacks, symptoms of alcohol withdrawal and mania in cases of bipolar disorder. Lorazepam is also known by its brand name Ativan.

Features

• According to research published in the journal Drugs, lorazepam is widely used for the treatment of acute agitation in patients of mental disorders, such as schizophrenia. Lorazepam may be administered by intramuscular injection for rapid sedation of aggressive or agitated patients.

Considerations

• According to the National Institutes of Health, lorazepam may be habit forming, and tolerance of the drug's effects may develop with prolonged use.