Ativan Also known by its generic name, lorazepam is a benzodiazepine medicine that is widely used to treat insomnia, anxiety disorders as well as seizures. It works by altering the neurochemicals that are imbalanced for people suffering from depression or anxiety problems. One of the main reasons to use Ativan is to control anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder, as well as the disorder of social anxiety. Ativan can reduce anxieties, fears and agitation, which allows people to be more productive in daily life. It is also used as a treatment for insomnia, assisting people to get to sleep quicker and remain asleep for longer.