CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Gigi Davidson,
Medication: Lorazepam
Your cat has been prescribed lorazepam for the treatment of anxiety. Lorazepam is also administered via the nostrils for severe seizures lasting more than 5 minutes (status epilepticus). Your veterinary surgeon or pharmacist will show you how to withdraw the correct dose from the vial and how to administer it in the nostrils.
ℹ️Key points: • There are no licensed veterinary products containing lorazepam. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human drug to your pet which contains lorazepam. Your veterinarian will explain off-license prescribing to you. • Dosage: once or twice a day, or as directed by your veterinarian.
ℹ️This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist. ⚠️Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Lorazepam (loh-raz-eh-pam).
Brand name
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing lorazepam.
Class of medication
- Benzodiazepine (anti-anxiety).
Storage
- Store tablets at room temperature. Store the injectable solution in the refrigerator. Protect lorazepam from heat, humidity, and light.
Why has my cat been prescribed lorazepam?
Your veterinarian may have prescribed lorazepam for the treatment of anxiety. Lorazepam may also result in short term amnesia, which makes it useful for treating things like fear of fireworks, vet trips, thunderstorms etc. It is postulated that as well as reducing the anxiety associated with the actual event (ie fireworks), that lorazepam may also help your pet to not remember the event and so stop the build up of fear from successive episodes. Lorazepam is usually used alongside behavioral advice to help your pet feel calmer and safer in the long term. Your veterinarian may have prescribed lorazepam injection for the treatment of severe seizures (status epilepticus) lasting for more than 5 minutes. Your veterinarian or pharmacist will demonstrate how to measure a dose with a dosing syringe and how to administer it in the nostrils.
How is the medication given?
Lorazepam is given orally (as tablets), with or without food for anxiety. Lorazepam injection is administered in the nostrils for severe seizures. It is important to follow dosing guidelines carefully.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Reported side-effects include sleepiness, confusion, loss of balance, hunger and restlessness. Animals with fear-related aggression may lose their inhibitions whilst on this drug, which could result in increased aggressive behavior. Long term use of lorazepam can result in dependence on this drug and in this situation, it is important not to stop the drug quickly. Your veterinarian will work with you to withdraw the drug gradually and safely. Lorazepam should not be given to pregnant or nursing queens. Lorazepam may interact with many drugs including some antibiotics, itraconazole antifungal drugs, opioids, antihistamines, other anti-epileptics, some diuretics and phenoxybenzamine. Tell your veterinarian about any medications or supplements that your cat receives at home.
How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
Lorazepam tablets should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions, but treatment is usually only for a short period of time. Lorazepam injection, administered for severe seizures, is only to be used for seizures lasting longer than 5 minutes. Keep it in a readily accessible place along with dosing syringes so that it can be administered quickly in the event of a seizure.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused lorazepam safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the next dose is separated by at least 6 hrs. If you accidentally overdose your pet, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately.
My cat is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Lorazepam should only be given to the cat that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice. If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center immediately.
Will my cat need to be monitored while on lorazepam?
Your cat will need regular check-ups while they are on this medication.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on lorazepam can be found on the package insert or via your veterinarian.Europe & UK
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing lorazepam available in the UK and Europe.
US
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing lorazepam available in the US.
