Ativan, also known by its generic name lorazepam, is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are a type of central nervous system depressant that produce a calming effect on the brain and are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, insomnia, and seizures. Ativan works by increasing the activity of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which helps to reduce excitability and produce a sedative effect.
