Side-Effects of Ativan

Ativan is a fast-acting benzodiazepine, which means it begins to take effect quickly after it is consumed. This is why it is one of the optimal benzodiazepines for seizure and panic treatment. However, fast-acting benzodiazepines are often misused because they can provide a high that takes effect quickly.
Even if you are not abusing Ativan, it can cause an array of side effects, such as:

  • Drowsiness and dizziness
  • Tiredness and lethargy
  • Weakness
  • Unsteadiness
  • Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
  • Changes in appetite
  • Constipation
  • Restlessness and excitement
  • Blurry vision
  • Changes in sex drive or ability

When a doctor prescribes Ativan, it is typically only for short-term use because the substance can lead to dependency when taken for a long period. Even if you are taking Ativan as prescribed, you can become physically dependent on it after long-term use.

If you or a loved one develop an addiction to Ativan, professional Ativan addiction treatment is necessary.

Can You Become Addicted to Ativan?

Ativan can be addictive. Addiction occurs when someone loses control over their drug use. If you are addicted to Ativan, you may be unable to regulate how often you use Ativan and begin to lose touch with your responsibilities due to your substance abuse. Once you are addicted to Ativan, you will experience symptoms of withdrawal upon suddenly stopping the use of it.
Symptoms of Ativan withdrawal include:

  • Anxiety and irritability
  • Insomnia or restlessness
  • Hand tremors and muscle spasms
  • Headaches
  • Excessive sweating
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Hyperventilation
  • Panic attacks
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Hypersensitivity to light or sound
  • Abnormal bodily sensations like goosebumps or feeling as if your skin is crawling
  • Depression
  • Memory and concentration issues
  • Visual, auditory, or tactile hallucinations
  • Detachment from reality
  • Delirium
  • Grand mal seizures

Because Ativan addiction can result in life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, you should always seek assistance from a medical detox center that can provide you with the necessary Ativan addiction treatment to stabilize your condition.

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Signs of Ativan Abuse and Addiction

If you or a loved one frequently use Ativan, you might be wondering how to tell if someone is addicted. The signs of Ativan addiction are similar to any type of benzodiazepine use disorder, however, they can be difficult to spot if you do not know what to look for.

Common signs of Ativan abuse and addiction include:

  • Running out of a prescription for Ativan too early
  • Going to multiple doctors to receive more than one prescription at a time
  • Stealing Ativan from friends or family member’s prescription bottles
  • Buying Ativan off of the street
  • Using more of the substance than intended by your doctor
  • Needing to increase the dosage of Ativan to experience the desired result (building a tolerance)
  • Experiencing uncontrollable urges to abuse Ativan
  • Dealing with withdrawal symptoms when you cannot use Ativan
  • Frequently thinking about, using, or recovering from the use of the drug
  • Neglecting your personal responsibilities to abuse Ativan
  • Socially isolating yourself from your friends and family
  • Getting into risky situations or legal troubles as a result of Ativan intoxication

If you experience the above-mentioned signs of Ativan abuse, you are likely suffering from a substance use disorder. One of the main risks of Ativan addiction is overdose, as your tolerance will increase and cause you to take larger doses of the substance. If someone you love is experiencing an Ativan overdose, you must contact emergency medical services immediately.

We understand that getting help for addiction can be challenging. Start with a free addiction assessment today.

We understand that getting help for addiction can be challenging. Start with a free addiction assessment today.

Contact Elevate Recovery to Learn More About Ativan Addiction Treatment in Massachusetts

At Elevate Recovery, we understand the challenges of overcoming Ativan addiction and are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to support your recovery. Our Ativan addiction treatment programs in Massachusetts are tailored to meet your unique needs, helping you regain control of your life and build a foundation for lasting wellness. Don’t wait to start your journey to recovery—call us today at (877) 592-2102 to learn more about our programs and how we can support you every step of the way.