The Article Discusses the Mention of Lorazepam, a Recurring Prescription Drug, in the Television Series 'The White Lotus'

The Article Discusses the Mention of Lorazepam, a Recurring Prescription Drug, in the Television Series 'The White Lotus'

A new character in HBO's acclaimed series The White Lotus has caught viewers' attention: Victoria Ratliff. Portrayed by actor Parker Posey, the character arrives at the resort with a substantial supply of lorazepam, a medication she frequently uses and casually mentions throughout the show.

Lorazepam, more commonly known by its brand name Ativan, is a prescription drug primarily used to treat anxiety disorders. This medication belongs to a class of sedatives and hypnotics known as benzodiazepines, as detected by the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Other similar medications include Valium, Xanax, and Klonopin.

In The White Lotus, Victoria uses lorazepam to aid sleep and even takes the medication before a massage. She is also seen mixing the prescription drug with wine during dinner, slurring her speech heavily and even falling asleep at the table, raising concerns about the misuse of lorazepam.

Thea Gallagher, PsyD, a clinical associate professor at NYU Langone Health and cohost of the Mind in View podcast, asserts that Victoria's medication use differs significantly from recommended practice. "Victoria is not utilizing this drug as a prescriber would want," Dr. Gallagher explains.

But what exactly is lorazepam, and what is the right way to use it? In an effort to clarify, we reached out to doctors for their insights.

The Purpose and Function of Lorazepam

Lorazepam, primarily prescribed for anxiety disorders, possesses a specific purpose. According to Ryan Marino, MD, an assistant professor in the departments of emergency medicine and psychiatry at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, lorazepam is most commonly used for short-term situations, such as treating anxiety, panic attacks, and alcohol withdrawal. It can also be employed to manage temporary insomnia related to anxiety or stress.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that lorazepam only be prescribed for periods of two to four weeks due to its short-term nature.

Side Effects and Risks of Lorazepam

Although beneficial in certain scenarios, lorazepam comes with potential side effects, such as sedation, dizziness, and weakness, as noted by the FDA. Other effects may include drowsiness, amnesia, confusion, seizures, blurred vision, depression, and euphoria.

Long-term usage can lead to both psychological and physiological dependence and potentially life-threatening withdrawal in chronic use, Dr. Marino warns. In fact, in 2020, the FDA announced that benzodiazepines like lorazepam will require a new boxed warning to alert consumers about the potential for abuse, misuse, addiction, and withdrawal reactions. For people who have been on the medication for longer periods, it is recommended to gradually wean off it under the guidance of a healthcare provider instead of quitting abruptly.

It is also crucial to avoid drinking alcohol while taking lorazepam, as both substances can cause sedation and life-threatening effects on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

In summary, while lorazepam plays a role in managing moments of intense anxiety in the short term, mental health professionals often work with patients to develop alternative coping skills to minimize long-term reliance on the drug. When used properly, lorazepam can help individuals navigate acute anxiety-inducing situations more effectively, serving as a "bridge" medication to support them as they learn other strategies to manage their anxiety independently.

1. Mental health professionals often recommend developing alternative coping skills to minimize long-term reliance on medications like lorazepam for managing anxiety.
2. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that lorazepam, a drug primarily used for anxiety disorders, should only be prescribed for periods of two to four weeks due to its short-term nature.
3. Lorazepam, such as Ativan, can be a beneficial tool in managing acute anxiety-inducing situations, serving as a "bridge" medication while individuals learn independent strategies to manage their anxiety.
4. It is essential to avoid drinking alcohol while taking lorazepam, as both substances can cause sedation and potentially life-threatening effects on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

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