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

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.