The likelihood of dependence is relatively high with lorazepam compared to other benzodiazepines.

Adverse effects are more common in the elderly, and they appear at lower doses than in younger patients. 2%), and unsteadiness (3. Falls and hip fractures are frequently reported. So it may be necessary to repeat diazepam doses to maintain peak anticonvulsant effects, resulting in excess body accumulation. 5. Withdrawal symptoms can, however, occur from standard dosages and also after short-term use. This may reinforce psychological dependence. Benzodiazepines, such as lorazepam enhance the effects of GABA at the GABAA receptor via increasing the frequency of opening of the chloride ion channel on the GABAA receptors; which results in the therapeutic actions of benzodiazepines. Long-term therapy may lead to cognitive deficits, especially in the elderly, which may only be partially reversible. They can add to sleepiness caused by this medication.