Ativan Withdrawal Symptoms and Treatment

Ativan is a type of prescription drug that belong to the class of medicines called benzodiazepines. It is used to treat patients who suffer from anxiety. The injectable form of the medication is available, aside from the tablet form. Individuals with seizures, anxieties and nervous tension are advised to take the injectable formulation of Ativan.

How the Drug Works

The drug affects the body in various ways. For instance, it helps reduce anxiety while relaxing the muscles. Those who take Ativan may also experience sleepiness and calmness, and others may suffer from temporary impairment of the short-term memory.

Medications classified as benzodiazepine may have certain effects on the body, although the degree of effects depends on the dosage taken. Typically, the drug affects the brain and enhances the GABA (Gamma Aminobutyric Acid) effects, which is a brain chemical that calms the mind and body. The GABA slows down and halt specific nerve signals located in the brain. Because of these effects, Ativan is considered as a tranquilizer, CNS (Central Nervous System) depressant or sedative.

Ativan Side Effects

Clinical trials have presented the different side effects of Ativan to certain individuals. These effects usually occur among those who take the drug in huge amounts. However, some patients also experience mild or moderate effects with regular supplementation of Ativan.

Based on scientific studies, the typical side effects of taking Ativan include a calming or sedative effect that is observed in about 15.9 individuals. In addition, up to 6.9 percent of patients that takes Ativan experience dizziness or drowsiness. A small percentage of people who are advised to receive a certain dosage of the drug suffer from unsteadiness, loss of balance, weakness and fatigue.

Several researchers also reported a few other side effects of the drug such as mental confusion, memory loss, disorientation, blurry vision, nausea, decreased libido, slurred speech, headaches, impotence or erectile dysfunction, vertigo, low blood pressure and hair loss.

Ativan Withdrawal Symptoms

Ativan or Lorazepam is a type of medication prescribed by doctors, which can treat frequent episodes of anxiety. There have been reports and clinical studies that state the possibility of physical and psychological dependence on the drug. Withdrawal symptoms are common among those who have decided to stop using the drug abruptly.

Various symptoms of Ativan withdrawal include anxiety, headaches, tension, insomnia or sleep disturbances, depression, mood and personality changes, dizziness, restlessness and irritability. Several other patients who had withdrawn from using the drug suffered from numbness, muscle twitching, sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, and sensitivity to light. Serious conditions linked with Ativan withdrawal include heart palpitations, seizures, hallucinations, panic attacks, and memory loss.

Individuals can avoid the difficult symptoms linked with Ativan withdrawal when they limit the intake of the drug in a gradual manner. It is important that they consult a licensed health care provider that can provide medical advice on how to wean from Ativan. Furthermore, it is necessary that patients discuss with their doctor before they stop using the drug.

Patients who experience bothersome health conditions or symptoms should also notify their doctor, particularly when these effects are caused by withdrawal from Ativan. Addiction or overdose to Ativan can also lead to serious side effects, so it is ideal that patients seek the right medication and treatment for this condition.

Treatment Options for Ativan Addiction

Ativan, as with any type of addictive drugs, can cause an individual to experience a general feeling of well-being and euphoria after taking the medication. Professional help can assist those who wish to break away from the debilitating effects of drug abuse. In most cases, willpower is not enough to ensure that these individuals will put an end to their habit of taking the drug inappropriately. Peer support and professional counseling are necessary for these people to end their battle with Ativan addiction.

Treatment for drug addiction is quite comprehensive, and it may involve an one-on-one counseling from a medical specialist or psychologist. Moreover, these individuals should consider attending support group meetings with others who are recovering from an addiction to the drug. When they attend therapy, they can obtain coping skills and acquire the discipline in combating the cravings for the drug. With behavioral modification and cognitive therapy, drug addicts can expect success in their treatment program. They also need the support of their loved one who can motivate and encourage them to stop completely their abuse of the drug.