Ativan Usage in Dentistry: Basic Facts

Lorazepam (Ativan), a sedative, has been used on anxious patients to allow dental procedures to be done in a more reliable fashion. The usual use of Ativan are as follows:

1. Dose range: 0.25-4mg
2. Tablet form: 0.5, 1.0, 2.0mg
3. Liquid form: 2mg/ml
4. Onset: 30-60 minutes
5. Half Life: >8 hours
6. Best used for: longer dental appointments (3 hours)

Source: Bhalla J, Anxiety and Dental Management, Ontario Dentist, Vol 86, No 8, pg 20-23.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100