Ativan Addiction

Ativan is a prescription drug that is used in the medical treatment of anxiety. The drug is a member of the benzodiazepine family, and has a high addiction probability. An Ativan addiction occurs when a person feels like there is a need to continue to medication even with no medical need being present. Addiction is more likely to occur if the drug has been taken daily for longer periods of time or at a higher than prescribed dose. An addiction to Ativan is also higher in a person with a previous history of drug or alcohol abuse.

When a person becomes addicted to a drug, if usage is discontinued, the body is unable to function properly. Withdrawal symptoms can include, but are not limited to the following:

• Increased anxiety
• Feelings of tension
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Irritability or restlessness
• Mental confusion
• Sweating
• Dizziness
• Change in personality
• Light/sound sensitivity
• Nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea
• Numbness/tingling
• Rapid heart rate
• Heart palpitations
• Hallucinations
• Seizures
• Panic attacks
• Memory loss

When problems like these occur, a person feels the need to stay on the drug to avoid experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Despite the numerous benefits of benzodiazepine drugs, there is a high potential for abuse and misuse which means it is very important to take the medication only as prescribed and for the reason it was intended.

In the initial few days of taking Ativan, a person may feel tired or uncoordinated. As the body becomes accustomed to having the drug, a tolerance develops and it takes more of the drug to experience the same effects. A person with an Ativan addiction will require larger doses and continued use leads to physical dependence.

Ativan can be a very dangerous medication when taken in large doses and for prolonged periods of time. Users who experience an overdose of Ativan will exhibit different symptoms according to how much of the drug was taken and whether or not it was taken in conjunction with other drugs or alcohol. Some common symptoms of an Ativan overdose include the following:

• Sedation
• Mental confusion
• Coma
• Speech slurring and problems
• Lethargy
• Lowered blood pressure
• Breathing difficulties
• Loss of life

Because Ativan works by slowing down the activity in the brain, when a person with an Ativan addiction discontinues the medication, the brain activity can rebound and spiral out of control. When the brains activity is out of control, a person can experience seizures and other harmful side effects. Withdrawal from Ativan can be a problematic situation which is best handled by medical professionals and rehabilitation specialists.

Treatment for Ativan addiction includes an inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation facility, specialized care, personalized therapy, counseling and supervision and guidance from medical professionals and rehab specialists. Once treatment has been successful a person can go on to live a healthy, productive lifestyle again.

If you or someone you love has questions about Ativan addiction, please contact us today for more information.

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