What TV show caused a surge in searches for lorazepam?

The hit TV series 'The White Lotus' led to a significant increase in internet searches for the anti-anxiety drug lorazepam.

Why are researchers concerned about the rise in lorazepam searches?

Researchers are concerned because there has been a rise in the illicit production and sale of benzodiazepines like lorazepam through unregulated online pharmacies, which can be dangerous.

How did 'The White Lotus' fail to address the risks of lorazepam?

The show did not adequately convey the risks of suddenly stopping lorazepam, which can cause panic attacks, agitation, and seizures, nor did it highlight the dangers of mixing benzodiazepines with alcohol.

Home / Health / TV Drama Fuels Spike in Searches for Anti-Anxiety Drug Lorazepam

TV Drama Fuels Spike in Searches for Anti-Anxiety Drug Lorazepam

14 Nov

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Summary

Internet searches for lorazepam surged after release of TV show 'The White Lotus'
Concerns over illicit production and unsafe online purchases of benzodiazepines
Researchers warn show did not convey risks of stopping lorazepam or mixing with alcohol

TV Drama Fuels Spike in Searches for Anti-Anxiety Drug Lorazepam

In the months following the release of the third season of the popular TV drama 'The White Lotus' in February 2025, researchers have observed a significant spike in internet searches related to the anti-anxiety medication lorazepam. The show frequently featured a character, Victoria Ratliff, reaching for her prescription of the drug, known by its brand name Ativan.

Researchers at the University of California San Diego analyzed Google search data and found that searches for lorazepam were nearly twice as high as expected over the 12 weeks after the show's premiere, equating to around 1.6 million additional searches. There was also a 64% increase in searches about how to obtain the drug, reflecting about 30,000 extra queries.