What is the maximum recommended lorazepam dose given IV for adults in an acute seizure emergency?

• A. 2 mg
• B. 4 mg
• C. 6 mg
• D. 8 mg

Answer: (B)

In an acute seizure emergency, the goal is to stop the seizure quickly with a dose that is effective but keeps safety risk low. For lorazepam given IV to an adult, the standard dosing is 0.1 mg/kg, with a maximum of 4 mg per dose. This 4 mg ceiling per administration is chosen because higher amounts increase the chance of respiratory depression, hypotension, and heavy sedation without offering additional benefit in stopping the seizure promptly. If the seizure persists after a short interval (often several minutes), a second dose may be given, but it’s typically another up to 4 mg, with close monitoring. So the maximum recommended IV dose for an adult in this situation is 4 mg.