How would administering 3 mg of Ativan prior to an EEG recording typically affect the EEG?

Administering 3 mg of Ativan (lorazepam) prior to an EEG recording would typically lead to a decrease in overall brain activity, particularly impacting beta waves. Ativan is a benzodiazepine that has sedative and anxiolytic properties, leading to a calming effect on the central nervous system. As a result, it would generally suppress the frequency of beta activity, which is associated with alertness, active thinking, and anxiety.

In contrast, sedative medications like Ativan may lead to an increase in slower brain wave activity, such as theta waves, which are associated with drowsiness, relaxation, and the transition to sleep. Therefore, if the EEG shows an increase in theta activity, it could be attributed to the relaxing effect of Ativan, not an increase in beta activity.

Thus, when evaluating how Ativan influences EEG readings, it is essential to consider its role in decreasing higher frequency activity while potentially increasing slower wave patterns. This understanding aligns better with the expected neurophysiological responses to benzodiazepines during an EEG.