Preliminary report: parenteral Lorazepam in induced epileptic states in man

The anticonvulsive effect of Lorazepam -- one of the newer diazepines -- has been tested in 10 patients with induced epileptic conditions under continuous polygraphic control. The quantitative analysis of the paroxysmal discharges -- i.e. the evolution of the "paroxysmal index" -- shows that 5 mg IV Lorazepam normalize the tracings in 2.3 minutes. Parenteral Lorazepam inhibits pharmacologically-induced electroencephalographic abnormalities in man. Its action is slightly delayed. No effect on cardiac or respiratory function, or muscle tone was noted.