Surge of Midazolam Use in the Midst of Lorazepam Shortage.

Background: Lorazepam is a widely prescribed benzodiazepine that is used to manage anxiety, insomnia, and status epilepticus and is used for pre-anesthetic care as well as several off-label indications including aggression, alcohol withdrawal, panic disorder, chemotherapy-associated anticipatory nausea, and catatonia. Recent increases in demand, manufacturing changes, and quality control issues have resulted in a shortage of injectable and oral lorazepam, prompting clinicians to use alternatives. One such alternative is midazolam, a drug that has been used primarily in the intensive care unit and anesthesia settings.