Who should not take lorazepam?

Lorazepam is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs called benzodiazepines, which are used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions. While lorazepam can be safe and effective when used as prescribed, there are certain individuals who should not take lorazepam due to the risk of adverse effects or interactions with other medications.

Here are some groups of people who should not take lorazepam:

  1. People with a history of allergic reactions to benzodiazepines: Individuals who have had an allergic reaction to any benzodiazepine medication should not take lorazepam.
  2. People with a history of drug or alcohol abuse: Lorazepam can be habit-forming, and individuals with a history of drug or alcohol abuse may be at increased risk of developing addiction or dependence.
  3. Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Lorazepam can cross the placenta and pass into breast milk, which can be harmful to the developing fetus or nursing infant.
  4. People with certain medical conditions: Individuals with a history of liver or kidney disease, respiratory depression, glaucoma, or myasthenia gravis should not take lorazepam without first consulting with a healthcare provider.
  5. People taking certain medications: Lorazepam can interact with other medications, including opioids, alcohol, and other central nervous system depressants, which can increase the risk of side effects or other complications. Individuals taking these medications should not take lorazepam without first consulting with a healthcare provider.

It is important to discuss any medical conditions or medications with a healthcare provider before taking lorazepam. They can help determine if lorazepam is the best treatment option for your condition and can provide guidance on how to use the medication safely and effectively.


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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