Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine used for conditions such as anxiety and, in some settings, other short-term medical indications. People sometimes notice weight changes while taking medications and wonder whether lorazepam is responsible.
Weight gain is not listed among the most frequent adverse reactions to lorazepam. In clinical data summarized in current U.S. prescribing information, the most common reactions include sedation, dizziness, weakness and unsteadiness. Changes in appetite can occur, which could indirectly affect weight in some people.
Can lorazepam indirectly affect weight?
Possibly. Sedation, fatigue or reduced activity could change daily energy expenditure. Changes in appetite may also influence food intake. Anxiety itself, sleep changes, other medications and underlying health conditions can affect weight as well.
Because several factors can act at the same time, a new weight change should not automatically be attributed to lorazepam.
Do not stop lorazepam abruptly
The previous version of this article incorrectly suggested that stopping lorazepam was the way to control medication-related weight gain. That advice is unsafe.
Lorazepam can cause physical dependence. Do not stop it suddenly, reduce the dose on your own, or take it less often without speaking with the prescriber. Abrupt discontinuation or rapid dose reduction can cause withdrawal reactions, which may be serious and can include seizures.
What should you do if your weight changes?
- Record when the change began and roughly how quickly it occurred.
- Review all prescription medicines, over-the-counter products and supplements with your clinician or pharmacist.
- Tell your prescriber about appetite changes, sedation, swelling, shortness of breath or major changes in activity.
- Do not compensate with crash diets, stimulant fat burners or unsupervised medication changes.
Important lorazepam safety issues
Lorazepam can impair alertness and coordination. Combining benzodiazepines with opioids, alcohol or other sedating drugs can substantially increase the risk of severe sedation and breathing problems. Take it only as prescribed.
When to seek urgent help
Seek urgent medical care for severe or slowed breathing, inability to wake normally, extreme sedation, collapse, seizures or other serious symptoms.
Bottom line
Lorazepam is not best described as a medication that routinely causes weight gain. Weight can change for many reasons, and lorazepam-related sedation or appetite changes could play a role for some people. The safest response is to discuss the change with the prescriber—not to stop lorazepam suddenly.
Sources
Medical note: This article is general information. Medication changes, tapering and treatment of side effects should be individualized by the prescribing healthcare professional.
