You never expected to become addicted to Ativan. The anti-anxiety medication seemed harmless at first. But soon you were taking it daily, unable to function without it. Ativan addiction is surprisingly common – prescriptions for benzodiazepines like Ativan have risen 67% in recent years. If you suspect you may be dependent on Ativan, you’re not alone. The good news is that with proper treatment, you can overcome addiction and regain control of your life. Evoke Wellness at Hilliard offers comprehensive care including medical detox, residential rehab for men and women, and intensive inpatient programs. Don’t wait – take the first step and contact us today to discuss treatment options. Recovery is possible.
Call us at (833) 949-1347 or reach out online.
Understanding Ativan (Lorazepam)
Usage and Effects
Ativan (lorazepam) is a benzodiazepine medication prescribed for anxiety disorders, insomnia, and other conditions. It works by slowing activity in the brain to produce a calming effect.
However, Ativan also carries risks of dependence, addiction, and dangerous side effects with long-term use or misuse. Potential side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, impaired coordination, and memory problems.
Addiction Risks
Developing an addiction to Ativan can happen quickly, even when taken as prescribed. Tolerance builds, requiring higher doses for the same effect. Withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and seizures make it difficult to quit.
Recent statistics show Ativan prescriptions and overdoses are rising, highlighting the growing public health crisis around benzodiazepine misuse. Seeking professional help at a qualified addiction treatment center is crucial for overcoming Ativan dependence safely.
Ativan Addiction: Effects and Abuse
Physical & Mental Effects
Ativan (lorazepam) is a powerful benzodiazepine that can lead to dependence and addiction with long-term use. Its sedative effects cause slowed brain activity, poor coordination, dizziness and confusion. Overdosing may result in coma or death when combined with alcohol or opioids.
Behavioral Signs
As your tolerance builds, you may take higher doses to feel the same calming effect. This increases the risk of addiction marked by:
Getting Treatment
Quitting cold turkey can trigger life-threatening seizures and delirium tremens. Seek medical detox to taper off safely and manage withdrawal under 24/7 care. Inpatient rehab offers therapy, counseling and holistic care to overcome the mental obsession and prevent relapse.
The key to lasting recovery is addressing the root causes that led to Ativan misuse in the first place. With evidence-based treatment, you can regain your health and find a purpose-driven sober life.
Recognizing the Warning Signs of Ativan Addiction
Physical Symptoms
Ativan addiction can manifest in various physical ways. Be on the lookout for drowsiness, weakness, and impaired coordination – signs that often indicate abuse of benzodiazepines like Ativan. Changes in sleeping patterns, whether excessive sleeping or insomnia, could also signal an issue.
Behavioral Changes
Engaging in risky or out-of-character behavior is a major red flag. Doctor shopping to obtain multiple prescriptions, forging prescriptions, or stealing pills from others may occur. Mood swings, hostility, and poor decision-making can arise from Ativan abuse.
Signs of Dependence
As addiction develops, you may notice an inability to cut back or stop using Ativan despite negative consequences. Increased tolerance requiring higher doses is common, as are intense cravings when unable to obtain the drug. Prioritizing Ativan use over other obligations points to dependence.
If you or a loved one exhibits several of these warning signs, it’s crucial to seek professional help. Ativan addiction treatment programs provide medical detox, therapy, and relapse prevention planning for lasting recovery.
Ativan Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Drowsiness, dizziness
- Headache, fatigue
- Dry mouth, constipation
- Blurred vision, confusion
Severe Reactions
Ativan can potentially cause serious side effects like:
- Respiratory depression
- Memory problems
- Paradoxical reactions
- Dependency and addiction
Mixing Ativan with alcohol or other depressants greatly increases these risks. Suddenly stopping use can cause dangerous withdrawal symptoms.
Long-Term Dangers
With chronic use, Ativan may lead to:
- Cognitive impairment
- Depression and anxiety
- Insomnia and sleep disturbances
- Physical dependence and addiction
These effects emphasize why Ativan should only be taken short-term as prescribed. Proper medical detox is required to quit safely after dependence develops.
Finding Ativan Addiction Treatment
When seeking help for Ativan addiction, comprehensive treatment is crucial. Look for programs offering:
Medical Detox
A supervised medical detox helps manage uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms safely. This prepares your body and mind for further treatment.
Inpatient Rehab
Inpatient or residential rehab immerses you in a therapeutic environment 24/7. This allows you to focus solely on recovery, away from triggers. Evidence-based therapies address the root causes of addiction.
Specialized Programs
Choose a program tailored to your specific needs. Look for gender-specific tracks, dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring disorders, or holistic healing approaches.
Aftercare Planning
Continuing care is vital for sustained sobriety. Quality rehabs provide aftercare resources like sober living, alumni support, and individual counseling. This prevents relapse long-term.
Overcoming benzodiazepine dependence requires professional help. Don’t try to quit Ativan alone – proper treatment gives you the best chance at lasting recovery.
Ativan Addiction FAQs
What is Ativan?
Ativan (lorazepam) is a prescription benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety disorders, insomnia, and other conditions. It works by slowing down the movement of brain chemicals that may become unbalanced, resulting in a calming effect.
How addictive is Ativan?
Ativan has a high potential for abuse and addiction, especially with long-term use or high dosages. Dependence can develop quickly, even when taken as prescribed.
- Suddenly stopping can cause severe withdrawal symptoms like seizures
- Signs of addiction include failed attempts to quit, social problems, and risky use
How is Ativan addiction treated?
Treatment usually involves a medically-supervised detox to manage withdrawal, followed by behavioral therapy and counseling. Options may include:
- Inpatient or residential rehab programs
- Intensive outpatient programs
- Support groups and 12-step meetings
- Medications to ease cravings and stabilize mood
The key is comprehensive, long-term treatment to address the addiction’s root causes. With the right help, lasting recovery is possible.
Conclusion
You don’t have to face Ativan addiction alone. Help is available if you’re ready to take the first step. Evoke Wellness at Hilliard offers comprehensive treatment programs tailored to your needs. Our experienced medical staff, therapists and counselors can guide you through detox and recovery in a safe, supportive environment. With customized care, you can overcome dependency, restore health and reclaim your life. Don’t wait – you have the power to begin your journey today. Our admissions team is ready to help 24/7. Your brighter future starts now.
Begin Your Journey with Evoke Wellness at Hilliard
If you or a loved one is considering treatment, Evoke Wellness at Hilliard invites you to contact us. Our compassionate team is ready to answer your questions, discuss your needs, and help you take the first steps toward recovery. In Hilliard, you’ll find more than just a treatment program – you’ll discover a community dedicated to your wellness and success. Together, let’s embrace the journey to recovery and the promise of a new beginning. Call us at (833) 949-1347 today or reach out online.
