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Related Experiment Videos

Lorazepam and driving impairment.

Jayne E Clarkson1, Ann Marie Gordon, Barry K Logan

  • 1Washington State Toxicology Laboratory, Forensic Laboratory Services Bureau, Washington State Patrol, 2203 Airport Way South, Seattle, Washington 98134, USA.

Journal of Analytical Toxicology
|November 2, 2004
PubMed
Summary
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Lorazepam, a benzodiazepine, significantly impairs driving ability, even at low blood concentrations. Many drivers tested positive for additional impairing substances alongside lorazepam.

Area of Science:

  • Forensic Toxicology
  • Pharmacology
  • Traffic Safety

Background:

  • Lorazepam (Ativan) is a benzodiazepine commonly prescribed for anxiety and sedation.
  • Its side effects, including sedation and disorientation, can impair driving.
  • This study investigates lorazepam's role in drug-impaired driving incidents.

Observation:

  • A review of Washington State Toxicology Laboratory data (1998-2003) identified 170 positive lorazepam driving cases.
  • The mean lorazepam blood concentration was 0.048 mg/L, with a wide range.
  • 86% of cases involved co-detection of other impairing drugs.

Findings:

  • In cases with lorazepam as the sole detected drug (n=23), the mean blood concentration was 0.051 mg/L.
  • Analysis of 10 cases with lorazepam only, supported by Drug Recognition Expert reports, showed an average concentration of 0.050 mg/L.

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  • Lorazepam demonstrated impairment of driving and psychomotor abilities, irrespective of concentration.

    • Implications:

    • Lorazepam can cause significant driving impairment, even at concentrations below 0.1 mg/L.
    • The presence of other drugs complicates the assessment of lorazepam's sole contribution to impairment.
    • Findings underscore the importance of considering lorazepam in driving under the influence investigations.