Ativan Addiction: Symptoms, Risks, Detox, and Treatment
Ativan ( lorazepam ) Addiction: Side Effects, Detox, Withdrawal, and Treatment
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Ativan Addiction: At a Glance
Purpose & Risks – Ativan (lorazepam) is a fast-acting benzodiazepine prescribed short-term for anxiety, panic, seizures, alcohol withdrawal, and chemotherapy-related nausea. It enhances GABA to calm the central nervous system but carries a high risk of tolerance, dependence, and addiction as a Schedule IV substance.
Addiction Indicators – Addiction can develop even when taken as prescribed. Signs include persistent use despite negative consequences, failing to quit, hiding use, isolation, neglecting responsibilities, and co-occurring alcohol use disorder.
Withdrawal Overview – Sudden discontinuation may cause severe withdrawal: symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, headaches, tremors, nausea, and in extreme cases seizures or suicidal ideation. Most symptoms appear within 24 hours, peak during days 2–3, and can persist for two weeks or more.
Treatment Pathway – Safe recovery typically involves a medically supervised detox (including gradual tapering), followed by comprehensive rehab and aftercare. Services range from inpatient/outpatient programs to sober living, with evidence showing that treatment lasting 90 days or longer leads to better long-term outcomes.
Table of Contents
What Is Ativan used for (Lorazepam)?
Ativan is the generic name for Lorazepam. It is a fast-acting benzodiazepine. Doctors use it short-term for anxiety, panic attacks, seizures, alcohol withdrawal symptoms, and nausea from chemotherapy.
It increases GABA effects to calm the brain and nervous system. As a Schedule IV drug, it’s highly addictive and typically prescribed for under four months. Ativan comes as a tablet or liquid. It is one of the most prescribed benzodiazepines in the U.S.
Learn More About Other Benzodiazepine Medications
Slang for Ativan
The following terms are street names or slang for Ativan:
- Benzos
- Heavenly blues
- Stupefy
- Downers
- Tranks
- Candy
- Sleeping pills
Ativan Addiction Facts and Statistics
- Ativan addiction is common in the United States. This drug is one of the most popular sedatives used by Americans.
- According to SAMHSA’s 2016 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 18.7 million Americans misused prescription drugs. This is about 6.9 percent of the population.
Overcoming Ativan addiction is possible. Medical detox and rehab can provide tools and resources to get sober. Start your recovery today by calling (888) 427-4932.
Ativan is a benzodiazepine prescribed for anxiety and panic, acute agitation, pre-procedure sedation, and (in hospitals) seizure emergencies/status epilepticus.
Both are benzodiazepines. Xanax (alprazolam) tends to have a faster onset, while Ativan is often preferred for steady anti-anxiety effects and in some medical settings because it has no active liver metabolites. “Stronger” depends on dose and the person—your prescriber chooses based on your needs.
Yes. Common effects include drowsiness, slowed reaction time, dizziness, and impaired coordination. Avoid driving or risky tasks until you know how it affects you.
Yes. IV/IM lorazepam is a first-line treatment for some seizure emergencies in clinical settings.
Only with a clinician’s guidance. Together they can cause additive sedation, dizziness, low blood pressure, and falls.
Am I Addicted to Ativan? Signs and Symptoms of Ativan Addiction
People who have a history of substance use disorder with other drugs or alcohol may have a higher risk of developing Ativan addiction. Although taking Ativan exactly as prescribed can lower your risk of addiction, it’s still possible to develop tolerance, physical dependence, or addiction while taking it.
Common signs of Ativan addiction include trying to quit but failing, hiding use, and needing the drug to function. Other signs include:
- Isolating oneself
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Facing legal or financial problems
- Spending too much time getting or using the drug
- Alcohol use disorder (AUD)
What Are the Side Effects of Ativan Abuse?
Abusing Ativan may involve taking it without a prescription, using higher doses, mixing it with other substances, or misusing it by snorting or injecting.
Short-term effects include euphoria, drowsiness, nausea, slowed breathing, hallucinations, and aggression.
Long-term effects can lead to addiction, memory issues, depression, cognitive decline, seizures, physical dependence, and various life-threatening conditions.
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Only if prescribed together. The combo can cause heavy sedation and slowed breathing, especially with opioids or alcohol.
No. Alcohol + Ativan = dangerous sedation, blackouts, accidents, and overdose.
See the interactions list above—alcohol, opioids, other sedatives/sleep aids, gabapentinoids, sedating antihistamines, and muscle relaxants.
Safest practice: don’t take Ativan on the same day/night you drank. If you’ve been drinking, skip the dose and call your prescriber for personalized guidance rather than guessing a timeframe.
What Are Signs of An Ativan Overdose?
People who abuse Ativan may combine it with alcohol, methadone, cocaine, and other amphetamines to enhance the drug’s effects, increasing the risk of the withdrawal process. This is extremely dangerous and raises the risk of overdose. Signs include confusion, poor coordination, slurred speech, low blood pressure, slowed breathing, weakness, and coma.
How Long Does Ativan Stay in My System?
You can feel the effects of Ativan within two hours of taking the drug. However, it usually takes about 10-20 hours to leave your system. This timeframe is just an estimate. It can change based on several factors. These include your metabolism, body water, body mass, weight, age, and how much Ativan you took.
Ativan Withdrawal Symptoms and Detox
Quitting Ativan suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms like headaches, tremors, nausea, anxiety, insomnia, and even seizures or suicidal thoughts. Medical detox provides 24/7 care, gradual tapering, and support to reduce risks and prevent relapse.
Ativan Withdrawal Timeline
Ativan withdrawal will vary for everyone, but this timeline and tapering schedule is a general idea of what you can expect under medical supervision at a treatment facility.
24 hours after the last dose:A rush of anxiety, increased heart rate and blood pressure, and insomnia are common during the early stages of withdrawal and Ativan detox. 2-3 days after the last dose:The bulk of the withdrawal symptoms usually occur during a few days into Ativan detox, including headaches, tremors, nausea and vomiting, muscle aches, dizziness, and irritability.2 weeks after the last dose:Some symptoms may linger for two weeks or more following Ativan detox. These symptoms usually include depression, anxiety, and mood swings.
Ativan Addiction Treatment Options
Recovering from Ativan addiction is a long-term process involving levels of care; detox, rehab, sober living, support groups and aftercare. After detox, ongoing treatment in inpatient or outpatient rehab helps people understand addiction.
- It helps prevent relapse
- It addresses root causes
- It changes harmful behaviors
- It builds a strong foundation in sobriety through therapy and 12-step work
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, research shows long-term addiction treatment of 90 days or longer provides the best results for long term recovery, therefore long-term addiction treatment may be the best way to overcome Ativan addiction and maintain your sobriety.
Clients or family members who enroll in a recovery program or residential program at an addiction treatment center receive a safe, sober group environment, counseling, life skills training, educational sessions, behavioral and specialized therapies, 12-step work, and a structured daily routine.
An outpatient rehab program for Ativan addiction provides group sessions in a safe place over an extended period of time. It allows you to live at home. An outpatient treatment program includes counseling, educational talks, life skills training, and 12-step work.
Costs depend on where you are, the type of mental health issues services, the medical professionals involved, and how long the treatment plan lasts. Payment options include insurance, EAPs, loans, or lower fees.
Ativan addiction does not have to define you. Call Nova Recovery Center today at (888) 427-4932. Learn more about medical detox, 90-day rehab, and sober living programs. These programs help you stay sober for the long term.
They treat different things. Ativan is for acute anxiety/sedation; Seroquel (quetiapine) is an antipsychotic used for bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and sometimes depression/insomnia. Your diagnosis determines the choice.
From an Ativan-page perspective: combining Seroquel + Ativan increases sedation. Seroquel also has interactions with alcohol, other sedatives/opioids, and QT-prolonging drugs; your prescriber should review your full list.
Sometimes, under supervision. Expect more drowsiness and dizziness; doses may need adjustment and driving should be avoided.
Avoid or use only if your prescriber okays it:
Alcohol (any amount)
Opioids (oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, codeine) – boxed-warning risk of fatal sedation/respiratory depression
Other benzos/sleep meds (Xanax, Klonopin, Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata)
Gabapentinoids (gabapentin, pregabalin) unless directed
Sedating antihistamines (diphenhydramine, doxylamine) and muscle relaxants
Barbiturates and some antipsychotics
Always share your complete med/supplement list with your clinician.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is generally safe with Ativan when used as directed (do not exceed labeled daily limits; avoid alcohol).
Acetaminophen or NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen/naproxen, if safe for you) are typical choices. Avoid opioid pain relieverswith Ativan unless your doctor specifically prescribes and monitors them.
Continued Care for Ativan Addiction Treatment
Detox and rehab or residential treatment are important parts of Ativan treatment. People in recovery should also think about joining a sober living program or aftercare.
These programs provide continuous care and support. They are for people who have just completed an Ativan rehab program. They also help with relapse prevention.
Sober Living Programs
Sober living, ¾ homes, transitional homes, and halfway houses are all places for people recovering from drug and alcohol addiction.
Sober living programs support the shift from addiction to sobriety with safe housing, structure, recovery plans, and monitoring. Many also offer job help and education planning. Costs vary based on location, services, and amenities.
Aftercare Programs
Aftercare programs provide weekly support for rehab alumni, especially those prone to relapse. They offer a safe space to share recovery challenges and successes. With proper treatment and support, overcoming Ativan addiction is possible. Contact Nova Recovery Center to learn more.
Recovering from Ativan addiction can be hard, but it is possible with the right treatment and support. Contact Nova Recovery Center for more information about Ativan treatment programs.
Nova Recovery Center offers a large range of substance abuse treatment services: detox, residential, outpatient and sober living.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Ativan (Lorazepam) Addiction
What is lorazepam Ativan used for?
Ativan (lorazepam) is a benzodiazepine prescribed for short-term relief of anxiety, panic disorders, seizures, alcohol withdrawal, and nausea caused by chemotherapy. It works by enhancing GABA, a neurotransmitter that calms the central nervous system.
Why do doctors not like lorazepam?
Doctors are often cautious about prescribing lorazepam because it is highly addictive, even when taken as directed. Long-term use increases the risk of dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and misuse, which is why it is generally recommended for short-term treatment only.
Is lorazepam equivalent to Xanax?
Both Ativan (lorazepam) and Xanax (alprazolam) are benzodiazepines used for anxiety, but they differ in how quickly they act and how long their effects last. Ativan is often used for ongoing anxiety and medical conditions like seizures, while Xanax is commonly prescribed for sudden panic attacks.
Who should not take Ativan?
Ativan is not recommended for individuals with a history of substance abuse, severe respiratory issues, liver disease, or certain mental health conditions. It should only be used under strict medical supervision to avoid serious side effects and dependence.
What drugs are benzodiazepines?
Common benzodiazepines include Ativan (lorazepam), Xanax (alprazolam), Valium (diazepam), and Klonopin (clonazepam). They are typically prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and seizure disorders.
What is the safest benzo for anxiety?
There is no universally “safest” benzodiazepine, as each carries risks of dependence and withdrawal. The safest option depends on individual health needs and should always be determined by a licensed medical professional.
Is Zoloft a benzodiazepine?
No, Zoloft (sertraline) is an antidepressant in the SSRI class, not a benzodiazepine. Unlike Ativan, it does not carry the same high risk of physical dependence.
Is a benzodiazepine a narcotic?
Benzodiazepines are not classified as narcotics. They are central nervous system depressants used for anxiety and seizures but remain controlled substances due to their high abuse potential.
What is 90 in 90 and why is it suggested in recovery?
“90 in 90” refers to attending 90 recovery meetings in 90 days. It helps individuals build structure, accountability, and community support during the critical early stages of sobriety.
Do most addicted individuals need at least 3 months in treatment?
Yes. Research shows that treatment lasting 90 days or longer significantly improves outcomes, giving individuals the best chance at long-term recovery from Ativan or other benzodiazepine addictions.