Why Is Lorazepam Preferred Diazepam?

The central difference between lorazepam and diazepam is lorazepam leaves a person's system more quickly, reducing the chance of toxicity or side effects. Side effects of both Ativan and Valium, aside from potential addiction, include drowsiness, fatigue, depression, unsteadiness, and memory problems.

Is lorazepam stronger than diazepam?

Diazepam and lorazepam differ in potency and in the time-course of their action. As a sedative, diazepam 10 mg is equivalent to lorazepam 2-2.5 mg. Diazepam is better absorbed after oral than after i.m. administrations but this does not apply to lorazepam.

Why is lorazepam preferred over diazepam for status epilepticus?

Lorazepam has emerged as the preferred benzodiazepine for acute management of status epilepticus. 24 [evidence level A, RCT] Lorazepam differs from diazepam in two important respects. It is less lipid-soluble than diazepam, with a distribution half-life of two to three hours versus 15 minutes for diazepam.