Last updated: September 15, 2025
Can Lorazepam Cause Weight Loss?
Quick answer: Lorazepam (Ativan) is not a weight-loss medication. Most people don’t lose a meaningful amount of weight directly from lorazepam. When weight change happens, it’s usually indirect—for example from nausea, appetite changes, sleep/energy shifts, stress reduction, or other medications you’re taking at the same time. Unintentional weight loss (e.g., ≥5% of body weight in 1–3 months) is a reason to contact your clinician.
What Lorazepam Is (and Isn’t)
- What it is: Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine prescribed short-term for anxiety, procedural sedation, and related indications.
- What it isn’t: It is not approved or recommended for weight loss.
- Common effects: sedation, reduced anxiety, dizziness, and—less commonly—GI symptoms like nausea. See the medication guide in References.
So…Can Lorazepam Cause Weight Loss?
There’s no strong evidence that lorazepam directly causes fat loss. Reported weight changes tend to be:
- Small and indirect (e.g., appetite changes, nausea).
- Bidirectional—some people gain weight (lower activity, increased snacking), others lose (reduced appetite, better sleep lowering late-night eating).
- Confounded by co-prescribed meds (antidepressants, stimulants, GLP-1s) and the underlying condition.
Why Weight Might Change on Lorazepam (Indirect Reasons)
Use this table to identify what you’re experiencing and what to do next. This is general info—follow your clinician’s guidance.
| Possible mechanism | What it looks like | Practical step |
|---|---|---|
| Nausea / reduced appetite | Smaller meals, food aversions, unintentional intake drop | Favor gentle foods (eggs, yogurt, rice, soups). Sip fluids/electrolytes (see our electrolyte guide). If persistent, call your clinician. |
| Improved sleep & lower stress | Less late-night snacking, more regular mealtimes | Keep balanced meals; use our Calorie Calculator to stay within a healthy range. |
| Sedation / lower activity | Fewer steps, skipped workouts; sometimes weight gain | Schedule light movement: walks, mobility, or elliptical sessions you can sustain. |
| Anxiety improvement | Normalization of stress-eating (could go either direction) | Build a steady meal pattern (protein + veg + smart carbs). See carbs & weight loss. |
| Withdrawal / rapid taper | Rebound anxiety, nausea, poor appetite | Do not stop abruptly. Taper only under medical supervision; contact your prescriber if taper symptoms appear. |
Other Meds That Actually Affect Weight
Many people take lorazepam with other medications that can change weight or appetite. Examples (not exhaustive):
| Medication class | Common effect on weight* | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., semaglutide) | Often weight loss | Appetite suppression, GI effects; monitor hydration and intake. |
| Stimulants (ADHD) | Often weight loss | Reduced appetite; watch for under-eating. |
| SSRIs/SNRIs | Mixed (loss or gain) | Varies by agent and person; track trends over weeks. |
| Atypical antipsychotics | Often weight gain | Discuss metabolic monitoring with your clinician. |
*Individual responses vary. Do not start/stop meds without medical guidance.
When to Call Your Clinician (Red Flags)
- Unintentional loss ≥5% of body weight in 1–3 months (e.g., 10 lb from 200 lb).
- Persistent nausea/vomiting, dehydration, or dizziness.
- New/worsening mood changes, confusion, or unusual behavior.
- Using lorazepam with alcohol, opioids, or other sedatives (dangerous combination—seek medical advice).
- Pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding—ask about safer options.
How to Manage Weight Safely While on Lorazepam
- Keep meals regular: 3 meals + 1–2 planned snacks to stabilize appetite cues.
- Anchor protein: ~20–40 g/meal (Greek yogurt, eggs, chicken/fish, tofu/beans). See protein bar guide for on-the-go options.
- Hydrate: aim for steady fluids; on hot/training days add a light electrolyte mix.
- Gentle movement: walks, low-impact cardio, and 2–3 strength sessions/week to maintain muscle.
- Don’t chase “medication weight loss”: if loss is unintentional, investigate the cause rather than leaning into it.
- If you are trying to lose weight: set a small, sustainable deficit with our Calorie Calculator and review timeline expectations.
Prefer done-for-you balance? Use Build-a-Meal Plan or our Weight-Loss Meal Plan to reduce decision fatigue.
Related Reading
- Calorie Calculator: Find Your Daily Needs
- How Long Does It Take to Notice Weight Loss?
- Carbs & Weight Loss: Make Them Work
- Are Protein Bars Good for Weight Loss?
- Healthy Lifestyle Hacks
FAQs
Does lorazepam cause weight loss?
Not typically. Any change is usually indirect (appetite, nausea, sleep/activity, or other meds). Significant unintentional loss deserves a medical check.
Can I use lorazepam for weight loss?
No. Lorazepam is not indicated for weight management and carries risks (sedation, dependence, interaction with alcohol/other sedatives).
What if I’m losing weight and feel nauseated?
Call your clinician. In the meantime, choose gentle foods and sip fluids/electrolytes. Persistent symptoms need medical review.
Is it safe to stop lorazepam if I think it’s affecting my weight?
No—do not stop abruptly. Benzodiazepines can cause withdrawal. Discuss a supervised taper if needed.
Which medications commonly cause weight loss instead?
GLP-1s and stimulants frequently reduce appetite; some antidepressants can as well. Ask your prescriber how your full regimen affects weight/appetite.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and isn’t medical advice. If you have concerning symptoms or rapid weight change, contact your clinician promptly. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.
