Ativan, Within the benzodiazepine class of medications, Ativan is a brand name for the generic substance lorazepam, which is frequently administered. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter that is mostly used to treat anxiety disorders. Ativan has a soothing impact on the brain by increasing GABA activity. Because of the decrease in overactive neurons, tension, restlessness, and anxiety symptoms are alleviated.