The third series of hit TV drama The White Lotus has sparked a surge in internet searches for the anti-anxiety drug lorazepam, according to researchers. The show frequently features character Victoria Ratliff reaching for the medication.
A study from the University of California San Diego analysed Google data and found that searches for lorazepam almost doubled in the 12 weeks after the season’s release on 16 February, equating to around 1.6 million additional searches. Queries about how to obtain the drug rose by 64%, representing about 30,000 extra searches. No similar spikes were seen for benzodiazepines not mentioned in the show.
Experts have voiced concerns over the findings. Dr Olivia Maynard of the University of Bristol described the data as “striking”, warning that illicit production of benzodiazepines is widespread and that online purchases may contain dangerous substances such as nitazenes, a synthetic opioid that can cause overdose or death.
The researchers also noted that The White Lotus did not portray the risks of abruptly stopping lorazepam—which can trigger panic attacks, agitation, and seizures—or the dangers of mixing it with alcohol, which can cause severe respiratory depression.
The study, published in JAMA Health Forum, calls on the entertainment industry to adopt best practices for depicting prescription medications, such as including health information panels. However, Professor Harry Sumnall of Liverpool John Moores University suggested enforcement against illicit manufacturers and prescriber education may have greater impact.
