Ive been on lorazepam 1 mg 3 times a day for 26 years for severe panic disorder. im afraid its affecting my brain. what is the long term use of lorazepam side effects ? how do i get off it?

You likely have some degree of addiction and tolerance at this point, and getting off is going to take a good length of time (?months). It does not cause permanent brain damage, but could cause some current cognitive slowing as you age. Contact your doctor and design a withdrawal program. Good luck, stay patient as will be challenging.

It is unclear if there are true long term effects from benzodiazepines like lorazepam. Your dose is at the higher end and perhaps with your doctor you can see if a lesser amount will be effective. You have to taper slowly to avoid withdrawal. For instance no more than half a mg reduction every 2-4 weeks. Speak with your prescribing doctor.