Distinctive lorazepam response in catatonia with cognitive impairment

Ind Psychiatry J. 2025 Jan-Apr;34(1):117-122. doi: 10.4103/ipj.ipj_209_24. Epub 2025 Feb 6.

ABSTRACT

Catatonia, a complex syndrome characterized by immobility and communication impairment, presents with varying responses to lorazepam treatment among individuals with different cognitive impairments and underlying dementias. This study examines a case series involving four distinct catatonic patients to elucidate the factors contributing to the variable lorazepam response. Although lorazepam, a GABAergic modulator, can effectively alleviate symptoms in some cases, its limited impact in others highlights the intricate interplay between the underlying pathophysiology of diverse dementias and treatment mechanisms. This abstract provides insights into the intricate relationship between neurochemical pathways, catatonic symptoms, and treatment approaches, shedding light on the complexities of managing catatonia in the context of cognitive impairments and dementias.

PMID:40376656 | PMC:PMC12077632 | DOI:10.4103/ipj.ipj_209_24