Ativan (Lorazepam) Addiction

Ativan belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines or benzos. It is a controlled substance, meaning it carries a risk for abuse and addiction. Recently, the FDA added a Boxed Warning that cautioned the public against serious risks of abuse, dependence, withdrawal and addiction when using benzodiazepines, including Ativan. 

What Is Ativan?

Ativan, also known by its generic name lorazepam, is a prescription medication used primarily for treating anxiety disorders and insomnia. It may also be used to treat certain types of seizures. Small amounts of the medication are released over a longer time in an extended-release formulation of the drug Loreev XR.

Ativan works by binding to GABA receptors in the brain, which produces a calming effect on the mind and body. Individuals with high stress may perceive this as attractive and be more likely to misuse the medication. 

Ativan Addiction and Dependence

Generally, benzos with a shorter half-life and quicker onset of action have higher abuse potential. Ativan’s half-life is 10–20 hours, which is relatively short compared to benzos like Valium and Klonopin. The tablet begins working within 15–30 minutes after oral administration, which is somewhat quicker than other benzodiazepines. This makes Ativan a higher risk for abuse and dependence. 

Drugs like Ativan are typically indicated for short-term use; however, in many cases, they are prescribed long-term. The longer a person uses Ativan, the more likely they will become tolerant to the drug, meaning larger doses are required to produce the same effect. This leads to dependence, in which the individual experiences withdrawal symptoms when the drug is stopped. To avoid uncomfortable or dangerous withdrawal effects, a person may continue to misuse the drug at higher doses, leading to addiction. 

Symptoms of Ativan Addiction

It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of Ativan addiction so an individual can receive proper care. These signs and symptoms may indicate an addiction to Ativan: 

• Inability to reduce the dose or stop using Ativan
• Feeling you are unable to function without Ativan
• Increased tolerance to the drug
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when the dose is lowered or stopped completely
• Poor hygiene
• Changes in appetite
• Changes in personality
• Avoiding previously enjoyed hobbies
• Poor performance at school or work
• Withdrawing from family and friends

Ativan Addiction Long-term Side Effects

Using Ativan for longer than three to four weeks will most likely lead to withdrawal symptoms if the drug is stopped. Many people suffering from anxiety or insomnia are prescribed Ativan for longer periods, putting them at risk for long-term side effects, including: 

• Rebound anxiety or insomnia
• Irritability and paranoia
• Personality changes
• Lack of motivation
• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Impaired thinking
• Memory loss
• Withdrawal symptoms (upon stopping)
• Changes in movement/coordination and falls (especially in the elderly)
• Stroke

Ativan Withdrawal and Detox

Ativan withdrawal symptoms can occur as soon as three to four weeks after beginning therapy. This happens because an individual becomes physically dependent on the drug. The longer a person takes Ativan, the more likely they will experience painful and dangerous effects from withdrawal. Withdrawal symptoms include: 

• Altered sleep patterns
• Rebound anxiety
• Panic attacks
• Hand tremors
• Excessive sweating
• Difficulty concentrating
• Nausea
• Heart palpitations
• Headache
• Muscle pain and stiffness
• Psychosis and delusions
• seizures

Medical detox is an important part of treating Ativan withdrawal symptoms and involves allowing the body to slowly rid itself of the substance. The safest way to do this is in a controlled environment with medical professionals who can address withdrawal symptoms as they occur. This may involve medications or other therapies. 

Ativan Addiction Treatment

Medical detox alone is unlikely to help someone struggling with an Ativan addiction long-term. Following detox, rehab treatment at an accredited addiction treatment facility should offer an individualized treatment plan for their particular needs. 

Psychotherapy, including individual and group treatment and behavioral therapies, are a crucial component of any addiction treatment plan. It is also important to address any co-occurring mental health disorders that are present. Addressing these mental disorders leads to better health outcomes for the patient. 

About Our Treatment Center

The Recovery Village Cherry Hill at Cooper is an accredited drug rehabilitation facility that offers the full continuum of care, including medical detox, inpatient and outpatient rehab. 

Our philosophy is to treat the whole person, not just their addiction. This means treating their mental and emotional needs, not just their physical symptoms. At our facility, we believe:

• Anyone can recover from addiction.
• Each client deserves respectful and compassionate care.
• Addiction is a disease that can be treated with evidence-based care backed by research.
• The physical and mental causes of addiction should be addressed simultaneously.
• Recovery is a journey that requires lifelong commitment.

Our treatment facility has several healing amenities to help improve the mind and body, including:

• Fully-equipped gym
• Entertainment areas
• Yoga room
• Game room
• Outdoor volleyball court
• Indoor basketball court
• Nutritious meal options prepared by onsite chefs

What People Are Saying About Us

The Recovery Village Cherry Hill at Cooper

4.3

Based on 98 reviews

See all reviewsWrite a review

Paul H.

00:50 01 Mar 23

Starting my recovery at Cherry Hill turned out to be a better decision than I could have imagined at the time. The staff is top notch and the overall feel is beyond welcoming and comfortable. It was a scary move for me to finally get help. Had I only known a place like this was out there I’d have made the call so much sooner. It is early to say it but I am confident I will talk about The Recovery Village as the place that saved my life. I can only hope that my review will help someone who is in need to not be afraid and pick up the phone. Whatever your addiction may be Cherry Hill can help you turn it all around.

Danny D.

19:38 22 Feb 23

The staff was mostly fantastic. Even when I had an issue with a counselor they did everything they could to make it right. In fact they dealt with any issues I had well. I got a new counselor after and she was awesome. Saved my view of therapy and helped me as much as she could. There’s a few really good counselors at this place. One went out of his way to talk to me privately even though I wasn’t his client. That went a long way and helped me greatly. The nurses all were super helpful, and most of the bht’s and a few in particular were very helpful and just good people. They seem to hire a good amount of people in recovery and having that connection helps a lot as well. But just being a good person helps alot and most of the staff are. Tina at the front desk is amazing. One of the nicest people ever and gave me candy more times than I can count! The kitchen staff were amazing as well. They made good meals every single day 3 times a day. And the rec specialist had new ideas and fun things to do every day. Both directors were super helpful. Fallon helped with any issue presented and tried to listen to the people. But what makes this place 5 stars is the people around you. I didn’t know what to expect going in but it’s just “normal” people. All people just like me. People that understand. You form bonds that you’ll have for a longtime if you’d like. You’re with people who have also been through alot like you have. It definitely helps. The people I was with and became friends with I’ll be grateful for forever.

Dez F.

17:43 17 Feb 23

Best experience !!!! My first time in a facilty i was welcomed felt so comfortable my groups were so informative assisted me in my recovery i will contact all who was in my community for meetings and just to say hi-Adrienne Fillmyer

John B.

19:19 10 Feb 23

I had a great stay at RVCH and I’m doing great in my recovery

kevin B.

15:45 09 Feb 23

Excellent staff caring and attentive very clean facility great recreation program food and kitchen staff were great highly recommended

Karen J.

21:25 30 Jan 23

Great place to have detox and rehab. Staff wonderful. Food excellent.

Our Location

The Recovery Village Cherry Hill at Cooper is conveniently located in South Jersey and a 20-minute drive from Philadelphia. 

761 Cuthbert Blvd.
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002

If you or someone you love is dealing with addiction, contact us today. A knowledgeable representative can help you learn more about our treatment programs and how you can get started on the path to recovery. 

Editor – Theresa Valenzky

Theresa Valenzky graduated from the University of Akron with a Bachelor of Arts in News/Mass Media Communication and a certificate in psychology. She is passionate about providing genuine information to encourage and guide healing in all aspects of life. Read more

Medically Reviewed By – Michelle Giordano

Michelle Giordano has been a licensed pharmacist in New York State for nearly two decades. She received her doctorate in pharmacology from St. John’s University, where she earned an academic merit scholarship throughout the course of her studies. Read more