Etsy, social media, and even a recent episode of “Saturday Night Live” have been flooded with references to the prescription medication lorazepam. This sudden surge in popularity of a medication used to treat anxiety is due to the character Victoria Ratliff, portrayed by Parker Posey on Season 3 of the HBO TV show “The White Lotus”. Victoria, a wealthy North Carolina woman vacationing at a wellness resort in Thailand, constantly expresses her need for lorazepam to deal with stressful situations such as massages, yacht parties, and family drama. The way Posey portrays Victoria with a Southern accent and the frequent utterance of the medication’s name has turned lorazepam into a catchphrase and a key part of popular culture.
Lorazepam is a generic drug belonging to the benzodiazepine class, known for its potential for addiction and misuse. Almost 20% of individuals taking benzodiazepines misuse them, according to a study. The character of Victoria on “The White Lotus” embodies the mannerisms typically associated with someone taking this type of drug, with side effects including drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion. Online, fans have given Victoria nicknames like “Our Queen of Lorazepam” and created merchandise celebrating her as the “benzo queen.” Google searches for “lorazepam” spiked after a recent episode of the show, where Victoria’s husband steals her medication leading to marital conflict.
The choice of lorazepam as the medication Victoria needs on the show has generated curiosity among viewers. The decision to focus on this specific benzodiazepine instead of any other remains a mystery, as the show’s writers have not provided an explanation. Fans of the show have had mixed reactions to the prominence of lorazepam on “The White Lotus,” with some finding it relatable due to their own experiences with anxiety medications, while others had to google the drug’s name to understand its significance. The association of lorazepam with a wealthy older woman like Victoria, as opposed to other benzodiazepines like Xanax often associated with college students, has added to the intrigue surrounding its use in the show.
The portrayal of Victoria’s dependence on lorazepam has garnered attention on social media platforms like TikTok, where fans have created videos and memes about the character and her iconic use of the medication. Merchandise inspired by the show, including jewelry, mugs, and cross-stitch patterns featuring lorazepam references, has become popular among fans who want to capture the character’s breakout moment. The use of lorazepam in the storyline of “The White Lotus” to depict marital tension and power dynamics between Victoria and her husband has added depth to the character and driven the plot forward in unexpected ways. Despite its fictional origins, the cultural impact of lorazepam’s association with Victoria has transcended the small screen, leading to a widespread fascination with the character and her signature catchphrase.
