Ativan Addiction & Risks

Ativan is a very powerful benzodiazepine and tolerance can build very quickly. Ativan is generally prescribed for short-term treatment of anxiety, manic bipolar disorder (as an adjunctive treatment), vomiting associated with cancer drugs and chemotherapy, chronic sleep problems, restlessness, muscle spasms, nausea symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal, psychosis associated with abrupt withdrawal from alcohol. This class of drugs is also called sedatives or tranquilizers. Like other benzodiazepines, Ativan works by attaching to GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors in the brain.

Signs of Ativan Misuse

The signs of Ativan misuse may not always be obvious. If you’re concerned a loved one is misusing Ativan, and not following their doctor’s orders, signs to be aware of include:

• Using more of their prescription than advised
• Taking Ativan with other substances
• Spending an increased amount of time, energy, and resources dedicated to getting and taking Ativan
• Negative impacts to their work, family, school, and/or personal obligations and relationships

Ativan Withdrawal Symptoms

Typically, Ativan withdrawal symptoms include:

• Insomnia
• Headache
• Confusion
• Anxiety
• Muscle aches and pains
• Nausea
• Tremors
• Weight loss
• Psychosis
• Sweating

If you or someone you love is engaging in Ativan misuse it is recommended that you seek professional assistance for medically assisted detox prior to involvement in a therapy-based treatment program.

Getting Help for Ativan Misuse

Attending a residential inpatient program can be very beneficial for treatment. Therapies will help you create new thought patterns and develop new ways to cope with anxiety and stress in a healthy environment that does not include Ativan dependency.

A few of the treatment methods used at residential facilities include:

• A thorough evaluation that will determine the presence of any untreated co-occurring conditions that may have contributed to, or stemmed from, the Ativan misuse
• Cognitive behavioral therapies that are designed to provide you with the tools and skills you need to overcome unhealthy thoughts and behaviors
• Alternative therapies, including yoga or meditation, that provide you with the skills you need to deal with anxiety or stress in a healthy manner
• Group therapy that can provide balanced relationships with others who have similar experiences
• Family therapy that can address not only your relationship with others in your family unit, but also address the needs of family members who may have been negatively affected by your Ativan misuse

Once the initial phases of treatment have been completed at an inpatient treatment center, it is highly recommended to continue treatment in an outpatient setting, as healthy habits are built over time. if you are, or someone you love is, suffering from addiction, please call Futures Recovery Healthcare today.