Benzodiazepines for the Treatment of Catatonia Benzodiazepines are the first-choice treatment for catatonia, regardless of the underlying condition. Benzodiazepines are positive allosteric modulators of GABA-A receptors and will correct deficient GABA-ergic function in the orbitofrontal cortex. Following a positive Lorazepam Challenge Test , repeated doses of benzodiazepines can a treatment. Their use is safe, easy, and effective, with remission rates reported to be as high as 70–80%. About 65% Rates in a Naturalistic Study In a naturalistic study of 66 children and adolescents with catatonia, they found that benzodiazepines improved catatonia in 65% of cases , that there was no relation between dose and level of improvement, that the dose was higher sometimes (up to 15 mg of lorazepam) than the dose recommended in pediatric patients, and that side effects were few. Two-thirds Improved in a Trial of 107 adults In a recent trial in 107 adult inpatients ( 49% with a psychotic disorde