Lorazepam typically starts to work within 15 to 30 minutes after oral intake. The full sedative effect can last for around 6 to 8 hours. When given intravenously, lorazepam acts faster, with effects starting in 1 to 3 minutes. Factors such as age, stomach contents, and other medications can influence how quickly it works. Peak plasma concentrations usually occur around 1 to 2 hours after oral administration, meaning the full effect develops over that time frame.