This NHS content is written for people in England. Medicine names, availability, prescribing and services may differ in other countries.
Lorazepam belongs to a group of medicines called benzodiazepines.
It's used to treat anxiety and sleeping problems that are related to anxiety.
It can also be taken to help you relax before an operation or other medical or dental treatment. This is known as a pre-med.
It's thought to work by increasing the levels of a calming chemical in your brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).
Lorazepam is available on prescription only. It comes as tablets and as a liquid that you swallow.
It can also be given as an injection in hospital if you're having a seizure or fit.
View the original NHS website page ↗. Refreshed 19 August 2026.
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