What’s the Deal With Lorazepam on ‘The White Lotus’?

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If you’ve been tuning into Season 3 of HBO’s The White Lotus, you’ve probably noticed a certain word popping up a lot: lorazepam.
It’s the little pill that seems to follow one character everywhere, from fancy dinners to wellness retreats.
But what exactly is this drug, and why does it keep showing up on screen?
Let’s dive into the basics of lorazepam, break down what it does, and explore why it’s getting so much attention in the show—all without giving away too much of the drama.
Lorazepam 101: What It Is and How It Works?

Lorazepam is a prescription medication that doctors use to help people who feel very anxious or have trouble sleeping because of anxiety.
You might also hear it called by its brand name, Ativan. It belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines, which calm down the brain and nerves.
Think of it like a “chill pill” for your mind—it slows things down so you don’t feel as stressed or panicked.
When someone takes lorazepam, it starts working pretty fast, usually within 20 to 30 minutes. That’s why it’s great for sudden moments of anxiety, like before a big event or during a panic attack.
It boosts a chemical in your brain called GABA, which helps you relax. But here’s the catch: it’s not meant to be taken all the time.
Doctors usually suggest using it for just a few weeks because it can become habit-forming if you rely on it too long.
Why It’s a Big Deal on ‘The White Lotus’

In The White Lotus, lorazepam isn’t just a background detail—it’s practically a character of its own.
One of the guests at the resort can’t seem to get through the day without it, popping pills with wine or even offering them to others like candy.
This has a lot of viewers asking: Is that how you’re supposed to use it? Spoiler alert: not really. Doctors say lorazepam is for short-term relief, not a daily fix.
Mixing it with alcohol, like we see on the show, is also a big no-no—it can make you super sleepy, mess with your breathing, or worse.
The show uses lorazepam to highlight how some people lean on quick solutions to handle stress, even when they’re on a dreamy vacation.
It’s a peek into how anxiety doesn’t take a break, no matter where you are.
But it also shows the risks of overusing it, like feeling foggy or getting hooked—things that might play out as the season goes on.
What You Should Know Before Taking It

Lorazepam can be super helpful for the right person, like someone who’s scared to fly or needs to calm down before a medical procedure.
But it’s not for everyone. If you’re pregnant, have liver problems, or have struggled with addiction, doctors usually say to skip it.
Side effects can include feeling tired, dizzy, or forgetful, and those get worse if you don’t follow the rules—like taking too much or pairing it with a glass of wine.
So, next time you see it on The White Lotus, you’ll know it’s more than just a prop. It’s a real drug with real uses—and real risks. And is definitely making waves in this season’s story.
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