Lorazepam challenge test: A unique clinical response in catatonia

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Neurology

Background:

• Catatonia is a complex psychomotor syndrome with potential for fatal outcomes if misdiagnosed.
• Early recognition and intervention are critical for managing catatonia.

Observation:

• A case series involving three patients diagnosed with catatonia was reviewed.
• All patients presented with characteristic symptoms of catatonia.

Findings:

• Intravenous administration of lorazepam (4 mg), known as the Lorazepam Challenge, was employed.
• The Lorazepam Challenge resulted in rapid and optimal symptom resolution in all three cases.

Implications:

• The Lorazepam Challenge is a valuable diagnostic and therapeutic tool for catatonia.
• This approach highlights the efficacy of benzodiazepines in managing catatonic symptoms.
• Prompt administration of lorazepam can avert potentially fatal outcomes associated with untreated catatonia.