C19H23NO5

C19H23NO5 is a chemical compound that serves as the International Nonproprietary Name (INN) for the medication lorazepam. Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine with anxiolytic, sedative, and anticonvulsant properties, which makes it useful in the treatment of anxiety disorders, insomnia, and seizures.

The molecular formula of lorazepam is C19H23NO5, indicating its composition of 19 carbon atoms, 23 hydrogen atoms, one nitrogen atom, and five oxygen atoms. This formula reflects the structure of the compound, which consists of a diazepine ring, an oxazepam ring, and a carbonyl group.

Lorazepam was first synthesized in the late 1960s by Dr. Leo Sternbach at Hoffmann-La Roche, a pharmaceutical company that would later become part of the Roche Group. Lorazepam was developed as a potential alternative to other benzodiazepines, which were at the time undergoing widespread clinical trials and gaining regulatory approval. Initially, lorazepam was marketed as an anxiolytic, but it soon gained approval for the treatment of insomnia and seizures. The FDA approved lorazepam in the United States in 1977.

Today, lorazepam continues to be used as a treatment for anxiety disorders and insomnia, although its use has declined somewhat in favor of other benzodiazepines. The compound's potential for dependence and withdrawal has led to increased regulation and monitoring of benzodiazepine use. Nonetheless, lorazepam remains a widely recognized and prescribed medication, particularly for short-term or emergency treatment of anxiety and insomnia.