Substance guides
How long does Ativan stay in your system?
Published March 18, 2025 · 6 min read · Updated April 2026
Reviewed for accuracy by licensed clinical professionals.
Ativan (lorazepam) has an intermediate half-life of 10-20 hours, placing it between short-acting Xanax and long-acting Valium.
Detection
Urine: 3-7 days for occasional use, up to 2 weeks for chronic use. Detected on standard benzodiazepine panels. Blood: 1-3 days. Hair: up to 90 days.
Comparison
Xanax: detected 5-7 days. Ativan: 3-7 days. Valium: up to 6 weeks. Ativan has no active metabolites, meaning clearance is more predictable than Valium.
Clinical significance
Ativan is commonly used in hospital settings for acute anxiety and alcohol withdrawal because its predictable metabolism makes dosing safer, especially in patients with liver impairment.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Ativan stay in urine?
3-7 days for occasional use, up to 2 weeks for chronic use.
Is Ativan stronger than Xanax?
Milligram for milligram, Xanax is approximately 2x more potent. But effective doses are adjusted accordingly.
Does Ativan show on a drug test?
Yes. Lorazepam is detected on standard benzodiazepine panels.
Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. SAMHSA: 1-800-662-4357.