A new benzodiazepine was approved by the FDA in August, 2021. Loreev XR (extended-release lorazepam) is a once daily benzodiazepine formulation indicated for the treatment of anxiety disorders in adults. Loreev comes in 1 mg 2mg and 3 mg tablets. 1 mg of non-extended release lorazepam, according to the Ashton Manual, is the equivalent of approximately 10 mg of diazepam.
The new FDA Boxed Warning accompanying Loreev XR warns of abuse, misuse addiction, dependence and withdrawal reactions. Loreev XR prescribing literature warns that the effectiveness of Loreev XR use for more than 4 months has not been assessed in clinical studies. The safety of Loreev XR in adults is based on studies with lorazepam tablets. Loreev XR does not include the warnings that appear in the lorazepam prescribing literature that “benzodiazepines should only be prescribed for short periods only (e.g. 2 to 4 weeks).” Both warn of the risks of suicidality. Neither the FDA nor the manufacturer provide cessation or tapering guidance beyond “reduce slowly.”
