Does lorazepam help with depression?

Lorazepam is not typically used as a first-line treatment for depression, as it is primarily a medication for anxiety and insomnia. However, in some cases, lorazepam may be used to help manage symptoms of depression, particularly when anxiety or agitation is present.

Lorazepam belongs to the class of benzodiazepines, which work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. By reducing anxiety and agitation, lorazepam may indirectly improve some symptoms of depression, such as irritability, restlessness, or insomnia.

However, it’s important to note that lorazepam is not a long-term solution for depression, and it can cause side effects and dependence if used improperly or for prolonged periods. Additionally, lorazepam can worsen some symptoms of depression, such as apathy, lethargy, or cognitive impairment, and it may interact with other medications that are used to treat depression, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs).

If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about the most appropriate treatment options for your individual needs. They may recommend medications, such as SSRIs or TCAs, psychotherapy, or other treatments, depending on the severity and duration of your symptoms. They can also monitor your response to treatment, adjust your medication or dosage as needed, and provide support and guidance throughout your recovery journey.


There are various forms of drugs available, such as tablets or liquids, and each may have a separate patient information leaflet (PIL) for different doses. It is important to refer to the PIL for the specific form and dose of the drug that you have been prescribed.

You can search for further information and PILs on websites such as:

  • The British National Formulary (BNF)
  • Electronic medicines compendium (emc)
  • The National Library of Medicine's DailyMed
  • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 
  • Different drug forms like tablets or liquids have specific patient information leaflets (PIL) for various doses. Refer to the PIL for your prescribed drug form and dose.

    Search for PILs on websites like:

    France

    • ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé): ansm.sante.fr

    Spain

    • AEMPS (Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios): aemps.gob.es

    Germany

    • BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte): bfarm.de

    Italy

    For questions about your medication:

    • Consult your doctor, a healthcare professional, or a pharmacist

    France

    • Contact SOS Médecins: 3624
    • For mental health support, contact SOS Suicide: 01 45 39 40 00

    Belgium (French)

    Switzerland (French)

    • La Main Tendue: 143
    • Website: 143.ch

    Canada (French)

    • Centre de prévention du suicide du Québec: 1 866 APPELLE (1 866 277-3553)
    • Website: cpsquebec.ca

    Spain

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Teléfono de la Esperanza: 717 003 717

    Germany

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefonseelsorge: 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222

    Italy

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefono Amico: 199 284 284

    Netherlands

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact 113 Zelfmoordpreventie: 0800 0113

    Portugal

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Sos Voz Amiga: 21 354 45 45, 91 280 26 69, or 96 352 46 60

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