Lorazepam is described as what type of benzodiazepine and what is notable about its metabolism?

• A. Short-acting; metabolism severely impaired by liver function
• B. Ultra-short acting; unaffected by liver function
• C. Intermediate-acting; metabolism not markedly impaired by liver function
• D. Long-acting; unaffected by liver function

Answer: (C)

Benzodiazepines vary in how long they last and how the body metabolizes them. Lorazepam is best described as intermediate-acting. Its clearance relies on conjugation (glucuronidation) rather than oxidative metabolism by the liver. This pathway is less influenced by liver dysfunction, so liver disease does not markedly impair lorazepam’s metabolism. That combination—intermediate duration and metabolism that isn’t severely affected by liver function—explains why this is the correct description. The other options misstate either the duration (not ultra-short or long-acting) or imply a metabolism that’s more affected by liver function than lorazepam actually is.