Ativan

Ativan also known as Lorazepam, is one of several drugs in the benzodiazepine family used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. It is a central nervous system depressant which acts upon the brain as a sedative. Side effects from cancer treatments, epilepsy, and irritable bowel syndrome are also treated with Ativan. It can be taken in three different pill dosages, an oral solution, or as an injection. Long term use of this drug has proven to be successful for the treatment of anxiety, though a tolerance can develop and an increase in dosage may be necessary. Even when taken as directed, this medication can be addictive. However, there is a greater risk of addiction if the drug is taken for long period of time especially when taken for non-medical purposes. It is never advisable to stop taking Ativan abruptly. If used with opiates and/or alcohol the combination can be deadly.

Signs and Symptoms of Ativan Abuse
The impact of misusing this drug is dependent upon the physiological and psychological make-up of the abuser. Serious side effects of Ativan abuse can include:

Tiredness
Agitation
Drowsiness
Constipation
Dry Mouth
Weakness
Frequent Urination
Dizziness
Nausea
Shuffling Walk

Cognitive deficits can be experienced at least six months after last use.

Cost to Society from Ativan Abuse
Ativan® can be ranked high among the favorites among prescription drugs being used recreationally. Unfortunately, as with other CNS drugs, Ativan abuse can develop rapidly destroying both the individual life of the addict as well as that of those close to the addict. Stopping drug abuse is never a simple matter and often requires special medical attention. Until detox and treatment have taken place, the cost to both the family and the greater community is enormous with lost wages, unemployment, dropping out of school, increased health issues, depression, violent behavior, and a host of other factors.

Withdrawal Symptoms from Ativan

Seizure
Sleep Disturbances
Mood Changes
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Muscle Spasms
Memory Loss
Fever
Hallucinations
Sensitivity to Light and Sound

Withdrawal symptoms can be modulated and controlled with the administration of specialized withdrawal medication. This detoxification process should always occur within a designated addiction detox facility and should always be followed by an addiction treatment program. Detox is just the first step in the recovery process but it must be followed by treatment to help solidify early recovery. Detox should always be supervised by an addiction trained physician. Ideally, in a detox unit staffed 24 hour a day, 7 days a week.

If you or someone you know is suffering from Ativan addiction, or if you have questions about this or other drugs, please call our free recovery hotline at 1-888-221-5866 and speak to one of our trained addiction operators. At Addiction411, there is never a fee for help and all information is confidential.