The Truth about Lorazepam
If you’re a fan of The White Lotus and watching (or have watched) Season 3, you might be wondering about lorazepam. One of the main characters, Victoria Ratliff, played by Parker Posey, takes it casually—almost like vitamins—and even offers it to her husband without a second thought.
But what is this seemingly magical pill that appears to calm whoever takes it? More importantly, what are the risks?
What Is Lorazepam?
Lorazepam, commonly known by its brand name Ativan, is a prescription medication in the benzodiazepine family. It is used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and certain medical conditions requiring sedation or seizure control. While it can be highly effective, it also carries serious risks—including dependence, withdrawal, and overdose.
Despite its common use, lorazepam is not a harmless pill to be taken lightly.
A Brief History of Lorazepam
Lorazepam was developed in the 1960s and introduced into medical practice in 1977, following the success of earlier benzodiazepines like diazepam (Valium).
Benzodiazepines were initially praised as a safer alternative to barbiturates, which had a high risk of overdose and fatal respiratory depression. Over time, lorazepam became one of the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines due to its effectiveness in treating acute anxiety and its shorter duration of action compared to Valium.
However, as prescriptions increased, so did concerns about addiction, withdrawal, and misuse.
Why Frequent Use Can Be Risky
1. It’s Addictive
One of the biggest concerns is dependence. The brain quickly adapts to lorazepam’s effects, leading to tolerance (needing higher doses for the same effect) and physical dependence (experiencing withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly).
2. Withdrawal Can Be Severe—Even Dangerous
It can be difficult to stop lorazepam (especially when they’re taken daily or regularly). Withdrawal symptoms can range from uncomfortable to life-threatening, including:
Severe rebound anxiety and panic attacks
Insomnia and restlessness
Irritability and agitation
Tremors and muscle spasms
Sweating and nausea
Hallucinations and seizures (in severe cases)
Because of these risks, stopping lorazepam should always be done gradually under medical supervision.
3. Overdose Risk—Especially with Alcohol or Opioids
Lorazepam is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, meaning it slows down brain activity. When taken in high doses or combined with alcohol, opioids, or other sedatives, it can cause:
Extreme drowsiness
Confusion
Slowed or stopped breathing
Coma or death
This is a major reason why benzodiazepines, including lorazepam, are involved in a significant number of overdose deaths—especially when mixed with other substances.
Final Thoughts: Should You Take Lorazepam?
There is a time and a place for lorazepam. It can be effective when used appropriately, but it’s not a long-term solution for anxiety or insomnia. The potential for addiction, withdrawal, and overdose makes it a medication that should be used with caution and under close medical supervision.
