When lorazepam (Ativan) is given to a neonate concomitantly with morphine, the effect of Ativan is

When lorazepam (Ativan) is given to a neonate concomitantly with morphine, the effect of Ativan is

• A. Diminished
• B. Unchanged
• C. Potentiated
• D. Antagonized

Answer: (C)

The main idea is how drug interactions can amplify effects on the central nervous system. Lorazepam enhances GABA-driven inhibition in the brain, producing sedation and respiratory depression. Morphine provides additional CNS depressant effects through mu-opioid receptor activation. When given together to a neonate, these actions add up, leading to greater sedation and a higher risk of respiratory compromise than either drug alone—this is potentiation. Neonates have immature metabolism and a developing respiratory center, so the combination can persist longer and be more dangerous, increasing the chances of apnea, bradypnea, and hypotonia. There’s no opposing action between the two drugs, so the effect is not diminished or unchanged; it’s amplified. Clinical takeaway: use caution with co-administration, monitor closely, and use the lowest effective doses.

The main idea is how drug interactions can amplify effects on the central nervous system. Lorazepam enhances GABA-driven inhibition in the brain, producing sedation and respiratory depression. Morphine provides additional CNS depressant effects through mu-opioid receptor activation. When given together to a neonate, these actions add up, leading to greater sedation and a higher risk of respiratory compromise than either drug alone—this is potentiation. Neonates have immature metabolism and a developing respiratory center, so the combination can persist longer and be more dangerous, increasing the chances of apnea, bradypnea, and hypotonia. There’s no opposing action between the two drugs, so the effect is not diminished or unchanged; it’s amplified. Clinical takeaway: use caution with co-administration, monitor closely, and use the lowest effective doses.