Ativan abuse and addiction is a serious problem that requires treatment. The best treatment for drug addiction is therapy at a rehab center or outpatient program.

Behavioral signs of Ativan addiction include cravings and strong desires to use the drug. It also includes failing to fulfill major work, school, and home responsibilities due to use.

Symptoms

Ativan (lorazepam) is a type of benzodiazepine, which is used to treat anxiety. It is a prescription drug that can be used legally, though some people misuse it and become addicted. Misusing Ativan can cause physical and psychological dependence, as well as overdose and death.

Common symptoms of Ativan addiction include preoccupation with the drug, spending more money on it than prescribed and taking it more often than prescribed. People can also develop a tolerance to Ativan, which means they need larger doses to feel the same effects or experience withdrawal when they stop using it.

Another symptom of Ativan abuse is giving up important social, work or family activities because of use or continuing to use despite the knowledge that it causes or worsens personal problems. Ativan withdrawal can also cause symptoms like drowsiness, vertigo, confusion and memory loss. A person may also experience digestive tract issues like nausea and vomiting when they are withdrawing from Ativan.

Overdose

People who take large doses of Ativan without a prescription or for recreational purposes have a higher risk of overdose. This is particularly true if they combine Ativan with alcohol or other drugs that depress the central nervous system.

Symptoms of Ativan overdose may include confusion, slowed breathing, coma and death. Those who suspect that someone is experiencing symptoms of an Ativan overdose should call 911 right away.

Long-term Ativan abuse can cause changes in behavior that affect all aspects of life. This can result in a person having a hard time maintaining relationships, work, or school. In some cases, Ativan abuse can also cause an individual to get into trouble with the law because of impaired driving or other behaviors.

Getting help for an Ativan addiction is the best way to avoid overdose and other negative side effects. Ativan addiction treatment includes medically assisted detox, inpatient rehab, and outpatient programs. Many of these treatment centers offer behavioral therapy and other support services.

Addiction

Symptoms of addiction to Ativan include a craving for the drug, withdrawal symptoms when use is stopped, and difficulty handling daily life without the drug. People who are addicted to Ativan are often in denial, which makes it difficult for family members and friends to confront the problem.

Abused benzodiazepines such as Ativan are commonly used with opioids and other CNS depressants, increasing the risk of overdose. This is known as polydrug abuse. People who are addicted to benzodiazepines can also suffer from cognitive problems, including memory loss, that may lead to dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

Ativan is a fast-acting member of the benzodiazepine family of prescription drugs. Those who become addicted to it may take larger doses than prescribed or use it more frequently, crushing and snorting the pills, or mixing them with alcohol to intensify their effects. The drug’s rapid action is particularly helpful for anxiety disorders, but it can cause addiction if used inappropriately.

Treatment

Ativan addiction can be treated at drug and alcohol rehab centers that specialize in benzodiazepine dependency. Many of these facilities also offer detox programs to reduce withdrawal symptoms and decrease the likelihood of relapse once treatment is complete.

People who abuse Ativan usually do not have a medical reason to take the medication. They may be using it to become drowsy or they might be mixing it with cocaine or other powerful stimulants to enhance their high.

Some people develop a psychological dependence on Ativan without realizing it because they use the drug to self-medicate undiagnosed mental health conditions like depression or post-traumatic stress disorder. They may also develop a tolerance to Ativan over time and need larger doses to experience the same effects.

Ativan addiction can be difficult to overcome on one’s own. Reach out to a drug rehab center today to begin the process of recovery. They can help you overcome Ativan addiction and create the life you deserve.