Lorazepam, whose brand name is Ativan, has the highest potential for sedative addiction in the benzodiazepine family. It is used to treat anxiety, epilepsy, and in some cases, preoperatively. Lorazepam acts on the physiological process-it is an enhancer of the neurotransmitter GABA. A chemical occurring naturally in the body that induces calmness in the system.
According to the National Institutes of Health, Benzodiazepines should only be prescribed and taken on a short-term basis because of the high potential for abuse. The DEA lists benzodiazepines as a Schedule IV Controlled Substance, which means that they have a moderate potential for abuse.
Peak Time Of Lorazepam
Lorazepam, when taken orally as tablets it will usually start exerting its effect approximately 15-30 minutes after ingestion. Reaching the peak effect for about 1-2 hours and keeping its standard effects for 6-8 hours, depending on the amount given with a single dose. However, the euphoric effects of the medicine occasionally continue for up to 10 hours if the user is taking it to get high.
Lorazepam has an intermediate half-life of 12 hours, though outliers have been observed between 10 and 20 hours. This indicates that within 12 hours of taking the medicine, half of its dose will have left the body. The exact timing can vary based on individual factors such as age, metabolism, body weight, and liver function.
Factors That Impact Lorazepam’s Duration in the System
Age: Lorazepam metabolism and elimination in older people is about 20% slower than in the younger group.
Metabolism: One aspect of these individual differences is how quickly the body metabolizes and removes the drug from the system. Those who can more quickly metabolize may experience a faster declining brilliance effect.
Body Weight: A person’s weight can affect how the body metabolizes and distributes the drug, altering how long it stays in its intended location.
Liver function: Individuals with liver disease will metabolize and eliminate Lorazepam in a slower manner as compared to healthy individuals.
Frequency of use: Frequent usage of lorazepam may cause a buildup in the body. Which will prolong the time it takes for the medication to exit the body.