Ativan is the brand name for a benzodiazepine known as lorazepam. Medical professionals prescribe it to treat seizure disorders like epilepsy. It is also used to reduce anxiety before medical procedures.
Benzodiazepines like Ativan are controlled substances because they have the potential for abuse and addiction. According to a study, 17.2% of all benzodiazepine use is classified as substance abuse.[1]
While the signs of addiction are often obvious to people around you, it might be hard to recognize it in yourself. If you are worried that you are addicted to Ativan, it’s important to be aware of the signs of abuse. The main symptoms of Ativan addiction include having a hard time controlling how much you use, experiencing cravings, developing a tolerance, and dealing with withdrawal symptoms when you stop using it.
Ativan addiction should always be treated by a professional addiction treatment center. These programs offer medical detox, evidence-based behavioral therapies, relapse prevention, and aftercare services to help you achieve long-term recovery.
In this article, you will learn:
What you will learn:
- What is lorazepam?
- Can you get addicted to Ativan?
- What are the signs of Ativan misuse and addiction?
- How is Ativan addiction treated?
What is Ativan (Lorazepam)?
Ativan is a prescription benzodiazepine and central nervous system depressant that is also referred to as lorazepam. It is used to treat seizure disorders, anxiety disorders, and even alcohol withdrawal symptoms. While Ativan has legitimate medical uses, it can cause physical and psychological dependence when abused.
The side effects of Ativan may include:[2]
- Dizziness and drowsiness
- Tiredness or weakness
- Coordination problems and unsteadiness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Changes in appetite
- Restlessness or excitement
- Constipation
- Blurry vision
- Changes in sex drive or ability
If you use Ativan as prescribed, you will likely not experience any issues. However, if you use larger doses or consume it more often than you are supposed to, you could become dependent on Ativan.
Is Ativan Addictive?
When misused, Ativan can cause mind-altering effects like drowsiness, euphoria, and overwhelming calmness. If you use larger doses of Ativan than you are prescribed, you might experience a high similar to the symptoms listed. Unfortunately, these effects can be incredibly addictive and habit-forming, especially if you abuse it for a long period.
Your risk of developing Ativan addiction increases if you are using it for a reason other than treating seizures or anxiety. In other words, you should only take Ativan as prescribed.
Long-term Ativan addiction increases the risk of experiencing life-threatening overdoses, a wide variety of physical health concerns, and exacerbated mental health conditions. In other words, you should always seek professional help if you believe you are struggling with Ativan addiction.
What are the Signs of Ativan Abuse and Addiction?
Ativan misuse can alter behaviors, leading to physical and psychological symptoms. The signs and symptoms of Ativan addiction include:[3]
- Using Ativan longer or in higher doses than intended
- Wanting to cut back on or quit using Ativan but being unsuccessful
- Experiencing cravings or strong desires to abuse Ativan
- Failing to maintain responsibilities at home, school, or work because of Ativan use
- Continuing to use Ativan even though it is causing interpersonal or social issues
- Losing interest in previously enjoyed activities to have more time to abuse Ativan
- Using Ativan in risky situations such as while driving
- Abusing Ativan even though it is causing physical or mental health issues
- Needing to increase your dose of Ativan to experience the desired effect
- Dealing with withdrawal symptoms when you stop using Ativan
If you experience 2 or more of these symptoms, you have an Ativan use disorder. This means you’ll need professional addiction treatment to achieve and maintain long-term sobriety. Thankfully, PAX Memphis can connect you with a top-rated addiction treatment center in your area.
How is Ativan Addiction Treated?
Ativan addiction should always be treated by an addiction treatment center that includes individualized treatment, medical detox, evidence-based therapies, relapse prevention planning, and aftercare services.
Most people who suffer from Ativan addiction will need to complete a medical detox program. These programs offer you medications and treatments to lessen the severity of withdrawal symptoms that occur when you stop using lorazepam. Because Ativan addiction can be severe, you should never attempt to detox at home.
Depending on the severity of your addiction, you might need inpatient or outpatient rehab. Inpatient rehab is considered the highest level of care, offering 24/7 support and treatment to ensure you remain safe and sober. Outpatient is better suited for people with mild addictions who have a supportive environment to live in.
If you are having a hard time determining what type of Ativan addiction treatment you need, PAX Memphis can provide you with an in-depth assessment to figure out what course of action is best for you. Once we figure out what type of program you need, we can refer you to a reputable addiction treatment facility in your area.
Get Connected to a Reputable Ativan Rehab Center
Ativan addiction can be treated and managed with the help of a professional addiction treatment center. At PAX Memphis, we can connect you with an Ativan rehab program that suits your specific needs, preferences, and goals for recovery.
Contact us today for more information on how we can help you recover from Ativan addiction.
References:
- Psychiatry Online: Benzodiazepine Use and Misuse Among Adults in the United States
- Medline Plus: Lorazepam
- University of Florida Health: Substance Use Disorders vs. Substance Abuse and Dependence: DSM-5 changes