Ativan (Lorazepam) Withdrawal & Detox
Ativan is known generically as Lorazepam, a medication designed to relieve anxiety by slowing brain activity to allow for relaxation. Ativan is in the benzodiazepines drug class.
Ativan can cause significant behavioral changes and lead to addiction, overdose, or death when misused.
We are ready to help you recover quickly and safely.
Our Approach
We combine medically monitored Ativan withdrawal treatment options with 24/7 medical supervision and specialized addiction services, encouraging you to participate in therapy sessions when you are ready.
Our Individualized Approach Includes
- Medical, mental health, and whole-person assessment
- Case management and treatment planning
- Individual supportive counseling
- Supportive counseling groups
- 24/7 medical supervision
- Nutritious meals
- Medication management
- Continuing care planning
- Recovery support
Our Environment
At Restored Path Detox, we walk you through every early recovery stage and tailor your experience to help you feel comfortable, secure, and as at home as possible.
Let’s begin your journey to heal from Ativan use. We will work alongside you to provide the most comprehensive and individualized detox program available.
Our Amenities Include
- Comfortable private and semiprivate rooms
- Executive wing with private rooms
- Cell phone access for executive-level patients (as clinically appropriate)
- Snack options are available that cater to the health needs of our clients
- 24/7 nursing on all units
- ADA-accessible bathrooms with toiletries
- Outdoor courtyard and garden area
- Inviting, well-lit common spaces
- Premium linens
- Massage
What Is Ativan?
In addition to treating anxiety, Ativan is also used to help patients with irritable bowel syndrome, epilepsy, insomnia, nausea, and vomiting from cancer treatment. Ativan can also help control agitation caused by alcohol withdrawal.
Side Effects of Ativan
Side effects of Ativan may include the following:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Weakness
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Changes in appetite
- Restlessness or excitement
- Constipation
- Difficulty urinating
- Frequent urination
- Blurred vision
- Changes in sex drive or ability
More serious side effects may include the following:
- Shuffling walk
- Persistent, fine tremor
- Inability to sit still
- Fever
- Severe skin rash
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Irregular heartbeat
Ativan U.S. Usage Facts
Although the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) classifies benzodiazepines such as Ativan as Schedule IV controlled substances, meaning they have a low potential for abuse and a low risk of dependence, some physical dependence has been noted in just a few weeks, even with low doses.
An analysis in 2018 also revealed that drug misuse accounts for approximately 17% of benzodiazepine use among U.S. adults. Benzos cause surges of dopamine, which is partly responsible for how we feel pleasure.
Ativan Use Signs and Symptoms
Possible short-term health effects may include the following:
- Drowsiness
- Slurred speech
- Poor concentration
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Problems with movement and memory
- Lowered blood pressure
- Slowed breathing
The long-term health effects of Ativan misuse are not known.
Ativan Withdrawal Signs and Symptoms
The sudden reduction of dopamine in the brain is the leading cause of benzo withdrawal symptoms. More severe reactions or withdrawals may also be more likely when taking potent drugs for long periods or with other medications.
During Ativan withdrawal, you may experience trouble concentrating, sweating, and physical aches. Contributing factors to your Lorazepam withdrawal symptoms may include the following:
- Duration used
- Dosage used
- Co-occurring mental health issues
- Misusing other drugs or alcohol
Ativan PAWS
After abstaining from a substance of use for weeks or months, you may experience symptoms called Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS). Post-acute Ativan withdrawal symptoms may include the following:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Poor concentration
- Loss of sex drive
Why Is Detoxing from Ativan Necessary?
If withdrawal symptoms become severe, our physician may prescribe other medications on a case-by-case basis, depending on the type and severity of your symptoms. Suppose your original symptoms return once you stop taking Ativan. In that case, our doctor may also prescribe a different class of medications, or other therapies, to help manage those symptoms during withdrawal. For example, flumazenil (Romazicon) has been shown to help with severe withdrawal symptoms, and other drugs, like buspirone (BuSpar), can help if you suffer from severe anxiety symptoms.
Other therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and counseling, can help you manage symptoms without relying on other drugs. Managing symptoms is essential to help prevent the recurrence of Ativan misuse.
How Long Does Ativan Withdrawal Last?
The Ativan withdrawal timeline begins quickly, typically between one to four days after the last use and can last up to 14 days.
Our medically monitored Ativan withdrawal and detox program will help you stop using Ativan and manage your withdrawal symptoms safely and without pain. Soon, you’ll be on the path to recovery.
