Some of the most commonly abused drugs are prescribed by doctors. Though prescription drugs may be helpful in alleviating medical symptoms, they have a high potential for abuse and addiction when misused. Ativan is one of the most commonly prescribed medications in treating anxiety and insomnia. It may be an invaluable help to treat distressing symptoms, but its effects are also potent and potentially dangerous when misused.
What is Ativan?
Ativan, known by the generic name lorazepam, is a powerful benzodiazepine which slows the effects of the nervous system. This depressant effect makes Ativan suitable for treating disorders that increase the activity of the nervous system such as anxiety and panic disorder. However, it is so potent that when used at high doses, it can create feelings of mild euphoria and deep relaxation.
This desirable effect makes it a drug of potential abuse and is classified by the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a Schedule IV drug. Though it has medically accepted uses, it may still have the potential for abuse and addiction. Addiction may also develop as a result of tolerance to the drug after long-term use.
Ativan abuse creates a kind of intoxication that is similar to that of alcohol. In addition to its primary relaxing effects, Ativan has a host of unpleasant side effects. These immediate effects may be more severe according to the dosage taken or whether the drug is mixed with other substances. These short-term effects include:
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Slurred speech
- Memory loss
- Impaired motor coordination
- Impaired cognition
- Headaches
- Dizziness
At higher doses, it may be possible to see more severe effects such as:
- Mood swings
- Severely impaired reflexes
- Depressed respiration
- Slowed heart rate
- Aggressiveness
In addition to its short-term effects, continued Ativan use can have long-lasting detrimental effects. This is why doctors only recommend Ativan for short-term use, less than four months at a time. Long-term use can lead to:
- Memory impairment
- Learning difficulties
- Disorientation or confusion
- Abdominal bleeding
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Kidney problems
Long-term use as a result of addiction is also associated with detrimental social effects such as unemployment, legal issues, marital problems, and financial issues.
Signs of Ativan addiction
Ativan addiction may be diagnosed according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic use disorder. Clinicians look for different behavioral symptoms that may be noticeable to oneself or loved ones. These signs include:
- Taking higher or more frequent doses of Ativan than intended
- Failed attempts to quit using Ativan
- Cravings to use Ativan
- Increased amount of time spent obtaining, using, or recovering from Ativan use
- Continued Ativan use despite its detrimental effects on work, school, or home
- Continued Ativan use despite its detrimental effects on interpersonal relationships
- Loss of interest in hobbies and other activities
- Using Ativan in risky situations such as while driving
- Continued Ativan use despite its detrimental effects on physical health
- Tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect
- Withdrawal symptoms that occur when Ativan use is discontinued
Ativan withdrawal
Withdrawal occurs when the body is physically dependent on Ativan and the chemical changes it has on the brain. At this stage, suddenly removing the drug creates unpleasant withdrawal symptoms as the body adjusts to not having the drug. This is common with Ativan abuse and addiction, but it’s important to know that it can occur even when Ativan is taken as prescribed.
Withdrawal symptoms begin relatively quickly after use is discontinued. Withdrawal severity and duration depend on many factors including how long the drug was used and whether there is co-occurring substance abuse. It may last anywhere from one to several weeks. Some people may also experience post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), which can last for months.
Ativan overdose
Lorazepam and other benzodiazepines have the risk of overdose though it’s rare for it to be fatal. Most deaths as a result of Ativan abuse are related to polysubstance abuse, especially when other nervous system depressants are used which can create a synergistic effect. It’s also more common when illicit or counterfeit Ativan is used since it may have dangerous additives like fentanyl.
Symptoms of Ativan overdose
Since overdose can be dangerous and potentially lethal in the event of concurrent depressant use, it’s important to watch out for signs of overdose. The presence of these symptoms may require immediate medical attention. They include:
- Extreme drowsiness
- Confusion or stupor
- Profound sedation
- Shallow breathing
- Poor motor control
- Loss of consciousness
- Coma
Ativan addiction recovery
Ativan addiction treatment may require intensive intervention as well as prolonged psychological treatment. Typically, treatment begins with medical detox. During detox, withdrawal symptoms can be managed by medical doctors while Ativan use is slowly tapered off. They may also be treated with a substitute anxiety medication if Ativan was used to treat another mental health disorder.
Following detox, individuals in rehab begin behavioral intervention which involves intensive group and individual treatment. This can address underlying factors, stresses, and triggers that underlie substance use. Treatment may be complicated by mental health disorders that Ativan was taken to treat, but treatment is individualized according to these needs to provide individuals with the care they need to overcome their addiction.
Therapy can help individuals learn stress management skills, relapse prevention strategies, address trauma, and alleviate mental health disorders. This can help reduce dependence on medications such as Ativan.
Ativan addiction FAQs
Can I become addicted to Ativan if I use it as prescribed?
Yes, Ativan addiction is possible even if the drug is used at low doses as prescribed by a doctor. It’s important to let your doctor know if you’re experiencing symptoms like cravings, tolerance, or withdrawal so they can adjust your prescription.
Can I drink while taking Ativan?
Ativan is a nervous system depressant like alcohol. Their combination can intensify the effects of each substance so it is not recommended to mix the two.
Are off-label uses of Ativan more dangerous?
Ativan may be safely prescribed to treat other conditions like vertigo, pain, and even alcohol withdrawal. These off-label uses are still safe if used as recommended by a doctor.
Effective substance use treatment requires a careful assessment of each person’s needs and recovery goals.
At Austin Pines Ranch, we offer an extensive array of programs and services to accommodate those needs, taking into account personal and professional obligations and time commitment. With the help of a professional team, we will evaluate substance abuse history, mental health, and psychosocial status to determine the level of care that’s best suited for you.
