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Can Lorazepam Be Taken In Place Of Diazepam?
Question: I have started taking lorazepam. My doctor wants me to have this instead of diazepam which I only use As and when basis. This is not having the effect as the diazepam which I was very happy with. I am 90 years of f age and just want something to keep me comfortable for my remaining years. My general health good. It does not help sleep at all.m I want to have some reason to have her start diazepam.
Brief Answer:
Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thanks for your question.
Benzodiazepines such as diazepam and lorazepam are actually contraindicated in people older than 65. I never prescribe either medication to anyone over 65. There are extreme dangers associated with these medications in your age group. These dangers include high risk of falls, memory loss, cognitive slowing, addiction, withdrawal, seizures, and even death. I would strongly encourage you to ask your doctor to slowly titrate you off both these medications.
For sleep, there are other medications that will work better for you. You can try melatonin over the counter. If that is ineffective, you can try trazodone or mirtazapine. These are my medication suggestions to help you.
Please remember to rate and close this answer thread when you are finished and satisfied.
In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private link below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thanks for your question.
Benzodiazepines such as diazepam and lorazepam are actually contraindicated in people older than 65. I never prescribe either medication to anyone over 65. There are extreme dangers associated with these medications in your age group. These dangers include high risk of falls, memory loss, cognitive slowing, addiction, withdrawal, seizures, and even death. I would strongly encourage you to ask your doctor to slowly titrate you off both these medications.
For sleep, there are other medications that will work better for you. You can try melatonin over the counter. If that is ineffective, you can try trazodone or mirtazapine. These are my medication suggestions to help you.
Please remember to rate and close this answer thread when you are finished and satisfied.
In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private link below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
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