Medical Providers:
Dr. Michael Vines, MD
Alex Spritzer, FNP, CARN-AP, PMHNP
Clinical Providers:
Natalie Foster, LPC-S, MS
Last Updated: October 9, 2023
Ativan (lorazepam) is commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders and similar conditions. Although effective when taken as directed, misuse or abuse of this medication can result in serious consequences for both individuals and their loved ones. Alarming statistics show that approximately 7% of U.S. high school students have abused drugs like Ativan. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Ativan abuse and provide guidance and support for those impacted.
Ativan, or Lorazepam, is a medication commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders, insomnia, and seizures. As a member of the benzodiazepine drug class, it works by calming the central nervous system to help reduce symptoms and promote relaxation.
Ativan works by boosting the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that helps calm brain activity. By binding to GABA receptors, Ativan enhances its natural inhibitory effects, resulting in reduced anxiety, muscle relaxation, and sedation. When taken as directed, it can provide significant relief from intense mental health symptoms.
Yes, Ativan can be addictive. Like other benzodiazepines, it carries a risk of abuse and dependence, especially when taken in higher doses or for longer periods than prescribed.
Ativan addiction often starts unintentionally, with individuals following their doctor’s prescription to manage anxiety, insomnia, or other conditions. However, addiction is a complex process influenced by physical, psychological, and environmental factors. What begins as a legitimate effort to find relief can gradually lead to dependence as the brain adapts to the presence of the drug.
Here’s a typical progression of how Ativan addiction develops:
Individuals who take Ativan for a prolonged period may develop a tolerance, meaning they need increasingly higher doses to experience the same effects.
As the body adapts to Ativan, psychological dependence may develop, leading individuals to believe they cannot cope or function without the medication.
Many individuals use Ativan as a way to escape the pressures and challenges of daily life, which can ultimately lead to the development of addiction.
Although Ativan addiction can affect anyone, certain individuals may be more susceptible due to a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. Key risk factors include:
Recognizing the early signs of Ativan addiction is essential. Warning signs include noticeable changes in behavior, an intense focus on acquiring the drug, and a growing tolerance that requires higher doses to feel the same effects. These red flags should never be overlooked.
Like all medications, Ativan may cause side effects. While not everyone will experience them, their severity and frequency can vary from person to person. Some common short-term side effects of Ativan include:
Ativan affects the central nervous system by altering brain chemistry, which increases the risk of addiction and may contribute to long-term mental health issues.
Prolonged use or misuse of Ativan can result in drug dependence, increased tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms when use is stopped. For this reason, it’s essential to take Ativan strictly as prescribed by a healthcare professional. Quitting the drug without medical supervision can be dangerous and, in severe cases, may lead to an overdose.
Ativan and Xanax are both benzodiazepines commonly prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders. While both are effective, they differ in how quickly they take effect, how long their effects last, and their side effect profiles.
Generally, Ativan is considered less potent than Xanax, meaning a higher dose of Ativan is typically needed to achieve the same effects as a lower dose of Xanax. However, Ativan has a longer duration of action, so its calming effects tend to last longer.
Combining alcohol with Ativan is dangerous, as both substances depress the central nervous system, increasing the risk of severe side effects. However, when used under medical supervision, benzodiazepines like Ativan can be effective in managing symptoms of alcohol withdrawal syndrome.
When individuals with a history of alcohol abuse suddenly stop drinking, they may experience withdrawal symptoms that can vary from mild to severe. These symptoms can include anxiety, restlessness, tremors, and, in more serious cases, seizures.
To manage these symptoms and reduce the risk of serious complications, Ativan is sometimes prescribed during alcohol withdrawal. It helps calm the nervous system, easing anxiety and lowering the chance of seizures. However, because Ativan itself can be habit-forming, it should only be used under the close supervision of a medical professional.
Yes, Ativan (lorazepam) is classified as a controlled substance in the United States. It falls under Schedule IV of the Controlled Substances Act, indicating it has a lower potential for abuse and addiction compared to higher-schedule drugs. However, Ativan can still be misused, and abuse may lead to dependence, addiction, and even overdose.
Recovering from Ativan addiction typically involves a well-rounded treatment plan that includes medical detox, inpatient or outpatient rehab, individual and group therapy, and ongoing aftercare support.
Arizona IOP, a residential addiction treatment center set in the peaceful surroundings of Scottsdale, Arizona, offers a supportive environment for those ready to begin their recovery journey.
Our residential programs deliver personalized, intensive therapy and counseling designed to help you overcome Ativan addiction. Through our Dual Diagnosis program, we also address co-occurring mental health conditions, helping you heal the underlying issues that contribute to substance use.
