Lorazepam is a generic prescription drug used to treat certain types of anxiety. It belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines. Lorazepam comes as a tablet you swallow. The dosage can vary based on the condition the drug is being used to treat.

Note: Lorazepam also comes as an extended-release capsule, oral solution, and injection. This article focuses on the dosages of the oral tablet form of the drug. If you have questions about lorazepam extended-release capsules, oral solution, or injection, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

This section describes the usual dosages of lorazepam.

Form, strength, and how to take it

Lorazepam is available as an oral tablet. It comes in three strengths:

  • 0.5 milligrams (mg)
  • 1 mg
  • 2 mg

You can take this medication with or without food. Lorazepam tablets are typically scored and can be cut or crushed if needed. For more information about the best way to take lorazepam, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

What are the usual dosages of lorazepam?

The following information describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended, but always take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs, which in some cases, may be an adjustment to those described here.

Dosage for anxiety

Lorazepam is used for the short-term treatment of anxiety disorders or the temporary relief of anxiety symptoms associated with depression.

  • Typical dosage: Most adults take 2 to 6 mg per day in divided doses, though the range can vary between 1 and 10 mg per day based on individual needs.
  • Starting dosage: Your doctor will usually start you on a low dosage (typically 2 to 3 mg per day split into two or three doses) and adjust it over time to find the smallest effective amount.
  • Maximum dosage: The maximum recommended dosage of lorazepam is 10 mg in 24 hours.

Because lorazepam can cause drowsiness, it’s common to take the largest portion of your daily dose at bedtime.

Note: The safety and effectiveness of lorazepam in children younger than 12 years of age have not been established.

Dosage for sleep problems caused by anxiety or stress

The dosage of lorazepam for insomnia from anxiety or temporary stress is 2 to 4 mg taken once daily, usually before bedtime. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about your dosage or dosing regimen.

Is lorazepam used long term?

No. Lorazepam is usually a short-term treatment. Use of lorazepam for longer than 4 months hasn’t been studied. If you have questions about your dosage or how long you’ll likely take this medication, talk with your doctor.

Do not take more lorazepam than your doctor prescribes, as this can lead to harmful effects.

Symptoms caused by an overdose can include:

What to do in case you take too much lorazepam

Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve taken too much lorazepam. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach America’s Poison Centers or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 (or your local emergency number) or go to the nearest emergency room.

Not necessarily. Your dosage of lorazepam depends on various factors such as the condition you’re taking it to treat and how severe that condition is. It also depends on your age, other health conditions you may have, and other drugs you take.

For the short-term treatment of anxiety, the starting dosage is typically 2 to 3 mg per day, taken two or three times per day. In this case, your doctor may prescribe 1 mg of lorazepam twice per day.

For people ages 65 years and older or those who are physically weak, the initial daily dosage should not exceed 2 mg to reduce the risk of balance issues and over-sedation.

Your doctor will likely start you on the lowest available dose and slowly increase it as needed until you reach the right dose for you.

Lorazepam may be used short term to help with insomnia related to anxiety or temporary stress. It’s not used for insomnia from other causes. Lorazepam’s typical dosage for this use is 2 to 4 mg taken once daily — usually before bedtime.

Talk with your doctor if you’re having problems with sleep. They’ll determine the cause of your insomnia and recommend the treatment that’s right for you.

Disclaimer: While Healthline strives for factual, comprehensive, and current information, this article is not a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional’s expertise. Always consult a doctor before taking or discontinuing any medication. Drug information is subject to change and may not cover all uses, directions, precautions, warnings, interactions, reactions, or adverse effects. The lack of a warning does not guarantee a drug’s safety, effectiveness, or appropriateness for all patients or specific uses. Learn more about our approach to content integrity.