Is lorazepam considered a controlled substance?
Yes. Lorazepam is a controlled substance in the United States. It is classified as a benzodiazepine and is regulated under federal controlled-substances laws.
What schedule is lorazepam in?
Lorazepam is a Schedule IV controlled substance in the U.S. [1]
Why is lorazepam controlled?
Lorazepam is controlled because it can be habit-forming and can cause misuse and dependence. Like other benzodiazepines, it also has risks when combined with other sedating drugs, including opioids and alcohol. [1]
What does Schedule IV mean for patients?
Schedule IV drugs generally require a prescription and are tracked/regulated to reduce misuse. Compared with higher schedules, they have accepted medical uses, but they still carry restrictions because of dependence and abuse potential. [1]
If I have a prescription, can I legally take it?
If you have a valid prescription from a licensed clinician, you can legally use lorazepam as directed. The controlled-substance status mainly affects how it is prescribed, dispensed, and transported—not that it is automatically illegal when prescribed. [1]
References
1 U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Controlled Substances Schedules (Schedule IV definition and listings context)