Signs of Ativan Dependence and Addiction

People often take prescription medications with the hope of feeling better. They trust that these medications will help manage anxiety or stress. Yet some medications have a strong potential for misuse. Ativan is one such medication that also has the potential for misuse and addiction. Ativan dependence can develop when taking the drug long-term, misusing it, or using it frequently when it is not needed. Learning what signs and symptoms to look for that could indicate Ativan misuse can help people determine when to seek professional help. 

What Is Ativan?

Ativan is a brand name for lorazepam. It belongs to a group of medications called benzodiazepines. These medications slow activity within the central nervous system. Ativan helps people feel calmer during stressful or overwhelming moments. It works for short periods and offers relief for specific symptoms.

Dependence on the medication could develop when it is taken for long periods. As the body adapts to the medication and tolerance builds, it can feel like it is no longer working. However, the medication is still working as intended. Yet, people sometimes start self-medicating and 

When Is Ativan Prescribed?

Doctors prescribe Ativan to treat symptoms of anxiety, panic attacks, and anxiety disorders. It is also used to treat seizures and to induce sedation before surgery. It can help support individuals who struggle with severe insomnia caused by situational stress or anxiety symptoms. The medication should be taken as directed. People do need to be aware that Ativan long-term use can increase the risk of dependence.

How Addictive Is Ativan?

Before starting this medication, it is important to know is Ativan addictive? This medication has a high potential for addiction when misused or taken illicitly. Individuals can also become dependent on it when they take it long-term. Part of the reason for the addictive potential of Ativan has to do with the increased release of GABA in the brain. GABA is a chemical that helps calm down and slow the central nervous system to help alleviate anxiety, induce sleep, and relax the muscles. Over time, the brain begins to rely on the medication for relief. 

People may notice if they skip a dose, they experience withdrawal symptoms or rebound anxiety. This often indicates dependence has developed because the brain is reliant on the drug to maintain GABA levels. Other people will feel like they cannot function without the drug or start to self-medicate to achieve the desired effects. Both of these bad habits are signs of addiction. 

Signs of Ativan Misuse

Early signs of misuse usually start gradually and grow as Ativan dependence increases, which could include:

• Taking more than the prescribed dose to feel the same calming effect
• Using Ativan during stressful moments that do not require medication
• Reaching for the medication more often than planned or intended
• Refilling prescriptions earlier than expected
• Doctor shopping to attempt to obtain multiple prescriptions
• Hiding use from others or feeling uneasy when discussing medication habits
• Using Ativan in ways it was not prescribed, like crushing and snorting the tablets
• Taking Ativan with other substances, like alcohol

Ativan Addiction Symptoms

Ativan addiction symptoms gradually take hold the longer the drug is taken or misused. The most common symptom is having intense cravings for Ativan when doses start wearing off. Another symptom is experiencing withdrawal symptoms between dosages. Another indication of addiction is when someone has tried to cut down or stop using Ativan and has failed.

Other symptoms of addiction to Ativan can include:

• Ativan use becomes more important than work, school, and other obligations.
• Relationships with family and friends are suffering.
• The person has isolated themselves from others.
• The individual downplays the seriousness of their Ativan use.
• The person is spending more time with “new” friends.

Dangers of Ativan

Ativan long-term use increases the risk for serious health effects. The brain becomes dependent on the medication for balance. This dependence weakens natural calming responses. People may struggle with memory problems or slower thinking. These issues can affect daily life and relationships. Long-term use also raises the risk of accidents and injuries. Sleepiness and poor coordination may appear more often. Emotional stability may weaken. People may feel depressed or disconnected.

How to Recognize an Ativan Addiction?

Some people question themselves and whether Ativan is addictive when they are misusing it. They may have noticed subtle changes in their behavior and drug use. For instance, they may fantasize and look forward to using the medication. Another indication of addiction is counting the number of tablets one has left. Some individuals will become defensive and irritated when questioned about their Ativan use. Others will start to worry when they are running low on their supply. One clear indication that prescription drug addiction has taken hold is when all that matters is finding and using Ativan. 

Ativan Withdrawal Symptoms

A clear indication of how addictive is Ativan is the development of withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms from Ativan are common with long-term use and dependence on the drug. These symptoms occur when the medication’s effects begin to wear off or when the dosage is reduced. People can feel restless or notice rebound anxiety. They might have difficulties sleeping or notice an increase in muscle tension. More severe symptoms can include rapid heartbeat or confusion. Some people experience nausea or tremors. The symptoms experienced will vary based on the severity of addiction to the medication.  

Ativan Detox and Addiction Treatment

Overcoming Ativan addiction begins with detox to carefully wean people off the drug and make managing withdrawal symptoms easier. Detox is just the first step to overcoming addiction to Ativan. After detox, it is highly recommended to transfer to an appropriate level of care and continued addiction treatment. 

Ativan addiction treatment care levels include inpatient, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and virtual intensive outpatient. Each level of care provides a range of medical treatments, accompanied by evidence-based and holistic therapeutic modalities, such as individual and group counseling, medication-assisted therapy, mindfulness, and nutritional counseling. Each care plan is carefully structured and personalized to fit the specific needs of the individual.  

Find Help Overcoming Ativan Dependence and Addiction in Boulder Today

Taking the first steps to reach out for addiction support can feel overwhelming. It is vital to remember you are not alone. When you are ready to overcome Ativan dependence and addiction, Flatirons Recovery is here to help. We offer comprehensive, personalized addiction treatment care plans tailored to you and your needs. Our caring and compassionate team is here to provide the guidance and support you need to regain control over your life. Contact us today to start the path toward healing, recovery, and an Ativan-free future.