Ativan and Addiction

Ativan is the generic name for Lorazepam and is prescribed as an anti-anxiety drug. As a benzodiazepine drug (“benzo”), it works as a tranquilizer and suppresses the central nervous system. It’s often prescribed for general anxiety disorder and insomnia.

Ativan has a high potential for addiction – both psychological and physical. Since the drug affects the central nervous system and produces relaxed feelings, it’s very easy for patients to become used to this feeling and seek it out more and more. Over time, patients can become resistant to Ativan’s affects and need more and more to produce the same feeling.

Signs of Ativan Addiction

Ativan addiction may not be easily apparent at first.

The symptoms of regular use and the symptoms of addiction are often the same thing. Not everyone who takes Ativan becomes addicted. Patients may have some of the symptoms listed above without being physically or psychologically addicted.

Ativan Side Effects

The severity of the side effects depends on how much of the drug has been taken over time. Ativan users can experience:

• Sleepiness
• Weakness
• Clumsiness
• Amnesia
• Agitation
• Insomnia
• Inappropriate behavior
• Out of control behavior
• Impaired liver function
• Headaches
• Vision problems

These side effects can become more pronounced when someone becomes addicted to the drug and uses it in higher doses. With long-term use, addicts can suffer from abdominal discomfort, tachycardia (irregular heartbeat), depression, agitation and even forms of amnesia.

Ativan is available in a pill or an injectable form, and the injectible Ativan has increased incidences of sedation, hallucination and irrational behavior. Some Ativan patients have experienced rapid increases or decreases in blood sugar levels as well.

Getting Help For Ativan Addiction

If you suspect your loved one is addicted to Ativan, look for increased use of the drug. Your friend or family member will frequently request refills. They may shop around for different doctors and get multiple prescriptions for drugs. Look for prescription bottles and compare the doctor’s names. If there are two or more doctors prescribing medication, your loved one may be addicted.  Challenges Addiction Treatment can help.

Some of the most severe addiction symptoms, like tachycardia or blood sugar fluctuation, aren’t always obvious. However, you should look for some of the more readily apparent symptoms – like depression, memory loss or unprovoked anger.