A: Ativan (lorazepam) is a benzodiazepine drug that acts as an anxiolytic (anti-anxiety drug), amnesic, sedative/hypnotic, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant. It's used for the short-term treatment of anxiety, insomnia, acute seizures, and sedation of hospitalized or aggressive patients.: Lorazepam is a medication that is used to treat anxiety. It belongs to a class of medications known as benzodiazepines which help to produce a calming effect by acting on the brain and nerves (central nervous system).