Lorazepam in the treatment of neurosis

An open study was carried out in 40 ambulatory neurotic patients with classical symptoms of anxiety to assess which of their symptoms responded most readily and favourably to treatment with lorazepam. Doses ranged from 2 mg to 15 mg daily and were adjusted to individual patient needs. The study period lasted 4 weeks and patients' individual symptoms were assessed weekly on a 4-point severity rating scale. The results showed a statistically significant and marked improvement during the first week for the majority of the 16 symptoms assessed, particularly emotional tension, irritability and apprehension. Symptoms with a cognitive element of anxiety were controlled to a lesser extent and were slower to respond. The few side-effects which were reported, mainly somnolence, appeared to be dose related and usually occurred during the first few days of treatment.