Exploration of Extended-Release Lorazepam: Implications for Safe Nurse Practitioner Practice

In 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Loreev XR^®, a long-acting formulation of lorazepam, raising important clinical considerations for nurse practitioners (NPs) who routinely manage anxiety, insomnia, and stress-related conditions. Despite well-established risks, including dependence, withdrawal, cognitive impairment, and heightened danger when combined with central nervous system depressants, benzodiazepines (BZDs) remain widely prescribed in the United States. The current article examines the rationale for introducing a new extended-release BZD, the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties distinguishing it from immediate-release formulations, and implications for safe prescribing. The critical roles of primary care NPs and psychiatric-mental health NPs in patient assessment, risk evaluation, systems-based safety, transitions of care, and evidence-based tapering will be emphasized.