Lorazepam, which is sold under the brand name Ativan, is a prescription benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders and prolonged seizures (status epilepticus). Lorazepam is listed as a Schedule IV substance under the Controlled Substances Act in the U.S. This means that it has its medical uses, but it has a low potential for misuse and dependence as well.
In this article, we will answer your questions as to is lorazapam addictive, so that you can stay informed and make decisions that prioritize your safety.
What is Ativan (Generic: Lorazepam)?
Lorazepam is a prescription benzodiazepine that has been U.S. FDA-approved to treat anxiety disorders and status epilepticus. It is commonly sold under the brand name Ativan, and is available both as a pill and injection.
While lorazepam is a prescription benzodiazepine, like other benzodiazepines, it acts as a central nervous system depressant – which means it produces feelings of relaxation, drowsiness, and sedation.
These characteristics make lorazepam appealing, hence it is listed as a Schedule IV substance under the Controlled Substances Act.
When taken as per your doctor’s prescription and instructions, it is safe and effective. However, when misused, it can become addictive.
Is Ativan Addictive?
If you are wondering is lorazepam addictive or is Ativan habit-forming, then the answer is yes.
In 2021, nearly 1.4% or 3.9 million Americans reported using prescription benzodiazepines like Ativan. This is why the medication comes with an FDA warning highlighting the risks of misuse, dependence, and addiction.
In fact, to err on the side of caution – even when Ativan is taken as directed, one may come to rely on it for sleep and managing daily anxieties and stressors. This reliance can quickly develop into a habit, so you need to be able to identify the signs and symptoms of Ativan addiction to seek early care.
Signs and Symptoms of Ativan Addiction
While only licensed and trained mental health specialists can accurately diagnose Ativan Addiction, here are some warning signs you can look out for if you believe you or a loved one is struggling with Ativan/lorazepam misuse:
- Taking lorazepam in other ways than prescribed – heavily and frequently than intended, or using someone else’s prescription.
- Intense, persistent cravings to use lorazepam.
- Spending a lot of time acquiring, using, and recovering from lorazepam use.
- Being unable to manage education, career, family, and other obligations because of lorazepam use.
- Giving up other activities – important and enjoyable – in favor of lorazepam use.
- Using lorazepam despite adverse impacts on physical and mental health.
- Using lorazepam under high-risk circumstances, like driving under the influence or operating heavy machinery.
- Developing tolerance for lorazepam, which means needing larger quantities of the medication to achieve the desired effect.
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms in case of suddenly reducing or stopping lorazepam use.
- Tried to cut down/stop lorazepam use but have not been able to do so.
If your recognize any of these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, please contact your doctor immediately.
What Are the Consequences of Lorazepam Misuse?
While lorazepam may initially feel good, like a relief, if misused for longer periods of time – it can lead to some unwanted effects such as:
- Sedation
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Memory impairment
- Respiratory depression
- Loss of consciousness
- Overdose.
Ativan Overdose
Here are some of the signs and symptoms of an Ativan overdose:
- Confusion
- Lethargy
- Extreme drowsiness
- Slurred speech
- Little to no muscle control
- Loss of consciousness
- Coma.
If you suspect these overdose symptoms in anybody using Ativan, then please call emergency providers like 9-1-1 in the U.S. immediately. Otherwise, an Ativan overdose can turn fatal.
What Are the Treatment Options for Ativan Addiction?
Lorazepam or Ativan is a prescription medication; so, when it turns addictive, it can seem like something that is meant to heal has become a problem in itself. But the encouraging thing is that Ativan misuse is treatable. Some of the recovery options are:
- Medically supervised detox, which involves gradually tapering off lorazepam levels from your body under safe and controlled conditions to minimize and manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
- Psychotherapy and counseling involving motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, contingency management, and 12-Step recovery models, among others.
- 12-Step and non-12-Step peer support groups that provide a safe environment where you can share your struggles, learn from others, and take ownership of your own recovery.
- Aftercare, involving ongoing therapy/counseling, relapse prevention, and peer support.
Prevention and Safety Measures for Ativan Use
If you have been prescribed Ativan, then here are some of the prevention and safety measures you can follow to avoid misuse:
- Be honest with your doctor about your medical, mental health, and substance use history.
- Follow your doctor’s prescription and instructions to a tee.
- Keep a close track of your Ativan medication.
- If Ativan is not working for you or the dosage is not effective, then contact your doctor immediately. Do not make any decisions or adjustments on your own.
- Regularly follow up with your doctor.
- Safely store and dispose of unused Ativan medication so as to keep it out of reach of adolescents or teenagers who may be likely to experiment.
Do Not Let Ativan Control Your Life – Healing Begins Today!
Knowing is Ativan addictive and understanding the signs and symptoms of Ativan addiction are some of the first steps to stay informed and stay safe.
However, if you recognize these signs and symptoms in yourself or someone you love – help is always available for you. Reach out to Skyline Recovery Center today – we provide personalized recovery options tailored to your needs and goals in your journey toward a sober, healthier tomorrow.
Please call us at (424) 353-5206 to schedule a free, confidential consultation today!