Ativan, or Lorazepam, belongs to the Benzodiazepine class of drugs, which act as a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. Benzodiazepines are prescribed for a multitude of reasons, typically panic and anxiety disorders. Ativan can also be used to treat seizures.
Ativan has the potential for abuse due to its habit-forming chemicals, and its sedative properties that can create a euphoric effect, or high. Like other prescription drugs, use of Ativan can start legitimately but quickly turn into an addiction. Ativan may be a user’s primary drug, but people typically take Benzodiazepines interchangeably to achieve the same effect.
Signs of Abuse
Symptoms of Ativan abuse in yourself or others can be:
- drowsiness
- labored breathing
- blurred vision
- muscle pain or stiffness
- constipation
- confusion
- asking family, friends, neighbors etc. for their Ativan
In severe cases, depending on the amount used, coma and seizures can be a side effect, and in turn can be life threatening.
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Withdrawal and Detox
The withdrawal process of Ativan, and benzodiazepines in general, can be dangerous depending on your tolerance, and it is recommended to be under medical supervision. Withdrawal symptoms can start within 24 hours of the last dose. Symptoms can include:
- headache
- sweating
- tremors
- confusion
- increased blood pressure, heart palpitations, and a rapid heart rate
- irritability, feeling of anxiety/panic attacks, mood swings
- seizures
It is important to note that a protracted withdrawal syndrome (or just withdrawal syndrome) typically lasts 10-14 days; however, in individuals who use very high doses of Ativan, it could last even longer. In this stage, individuals will continue to experience symptoms of anxiety, drug cravings, nausea, vomiting, headache, general malaise, and may even begin to develop depression.
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The first step in treatment is admitting you have a problem, and from there you need to craft a treatment plan. Profound is here to help. We offer a multitude of treatment, behavioral therapies and aftercare options to best suit your needs and to keep you on the road to recovery.