Lorazepam.

Abstract

The nurse administering any BZD--especially lorazepam--to a neonate must be knowledgeable about the drug's effects and risks and must remember that BZDs do not provide analgesia. The sedative effects of lorazepam will increase with concomitant use of opioids. The nurse must be alert for adverse reactions (Table 1). Close monitoring of the neonate's respiratory effort and blood pressure is important. Because of the various reported cases of myoclonus in neonates after lorazepam administration, close observation for seizure activity is imperative. Although lorazepam use may be beneficial in specific instances, administration should be approached with caution in the neonate (especially in the preterm neonate) and other agents considered.