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Lorazepam

Benzodiazepine Anticonvulsant / Anxiolytic

Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team

Species

Dog, Cat

Brands

1 available

Interactions

1 documented

Formulations

Mechanism of action

Intermediate-acting benzodiazepine that enhances GABA-A receptor function. Conjugated directly by glucuronidation (no CYP450 oxidative metabolism) — safer in hepatic disease than diazepam. Potent anxiolytic and anticonvulsant.

At a glance

Class

Benzodiazepine Anticonvulsant / Anxiolytic

Schedule

Controlled Substance

Storage

Store at room temperature; refrigerate injectable; protect from light

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Preferred benzodiazepine for status epilepticus when IV access difficult (good I

Dose

0.1–0.5 mg/kg

Route

IV, IM, PO

Frequency

As needed (seizures); q8–12h (anxiety)

🐈

Cat

Safer than diazepam in cats with hepatic disease (glucuronidation pathway vs

Dose

0.1–0.25 mg/kg

Route

IV, PO

Frequency

As needed or q12–24h

Educational reference only

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 3

Strength

—

Strength

—

Strength

—

Storage

Store at room temperature; refrigerate injectable; protect from light

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Seizure responseSedation levelRespiratory rateHepatic enzymes (cats)

Educational reference only

Interactions

Moderate — 1

Phenobarbital

moderate

Additive CNS depression. Unlike diazepam, lorazepam is conjugated by glucuronidation (not CYP450), so phenobarbital enzyme induction has minimal effect on lorazepam levels.

Management: Standard anticonvulsant combination. Lorazepam preferred over diazepam when adding to phenobarbital (predictable levels). Monitor sedation.

Educational reference only

Brands

Other markets

Ativan

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Lorazepam?

Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine anticonvulsant / anxiolytic used in pets. Intermediate-acting benzodiazepine that enhances GABA-A receptor function. Conjugated directly by glucuronidation (no CYP450 oxidative metabolism) — safer in hepatic disease than diazepam. Potent anxiolytic and anticonvulsant.

›What is Lorazepam used for in pets?

Lorazepam is used in veterinary medicine for: Preferred benzodiazepine for status epilepticus when IV access difficult (good I; Safer than diazepam in cats with hepatic disease (glucuronidation pathway vs.

›What is the Lorazepam dose for dogs?

For dogs, Lorazepam is typically dosed as follows — Preferred benzodiazepine for status epilepticus when IV access difficult (good I: 0.1–0.5 mg/kg IV/IM/PO As needed (seizures); q8–12h (anxiety). Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›What is the Lorazepam dose for cats?

For cats, Lorazepam is typically dosed as follows — Safer than diazepam in cats with hepatic disease (glucuronidation pathway vs: 0.1–0.25 mg/kg IV/PO As needed or q12–24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›Does Lorazepam need a prescription?

Lorazepam is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.

Educational reference only