Did you know that over 200,000 people visit the emergency department each year due to adverse reactions to benzodiazepines? More than half of these cases involve the nonmedical use of benzodiazepines in patients 15-34 years of age. 

Over 10,000 prescriptions for benzodiazepines like Ativan were written for individuals between the ages of 25 and 44 in Yavapai County in 2023. While older people tend to have a harder time metabolizing medications, younger people are still at risk of overdose. This is the case because they are more likely to misuse Ativan by taking higher doses or combining the medication with alcohol, opioids, or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants. 

An Ativan overdose is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Recognizing the signs of an overdose can help prevent more serious consequences from happening, as well as give medical professionals more time to reverse the effects. Wolf Creek Recovery in Prescott, AZ aims to educate, so let’s learn more about the signs and symptoms of Ativan overdose and how to treat these emergencies. 

Ativan Overdose

Ativan is the brand name for lorazepam, a prescription medication belonging to the benzodiazepine class of substances. It is commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, insomnia, and sometimes seizure disorders. Ativan works by increasing levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, a neurotransmitter that calms excessive brain activity. While this medication is effective, it is sometimes misused due to its pleasurable effects. Any type of benzodiazepine misuse significantly raises the risk of overdose. This is why it’s important to take Ativan as directed and avoid mixing it with other substances. Let’s learn more about what an Ativan overdose is and how to best respond if you ever find yourself in this situation. 

What Is an Ativan Overdose?

An Ativan overdose occurs when someone takes more of the medication than their body can safely process. In the case of benzodiazepines like Ativan, this usually happens because a person takes a higher-than-prescribed dose or multiple doses too close together. This can happen intentionally or unintentionally. Combining Ativan with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants or ingesting someone else’s medication can also put a person at risk of overdose. Overdosing on Ativan is a medical emergency, as it can lead to breathing issues, heart attack, coma, and death. 

Early Warning Signs of a Potential Ativan Overdose

Recognizing the early warning signs of a potential Ativan overdose can prevent more serious complications from occurring, as Ativan overdoses are often gradual. While sleepiness can be a side effect from the medication, an overdose will cause other symptoms aside from this, and the fatigue will typically last longer. Let’s look at some common indicators that someone may be experiencing an Ativan overdose.  

Signs and Symptoms of Ativan Overdose

• Altered level of consciousness. Excessive drowsiness, sedation, or wanting to sleep continuously. Trouble focusing, disorientation, or memory problems are also common. 
• Slowed or shallow breathing. Breathing may become noticeably slower or shallower than normal, which can lead to low levels of oxygen.
• Slurred or difficult speech. Words may be mumbled or drawn out. Forming complete sentences or responding quickly can also be difficult. 
• Lowered blood pressure and heart rate. Feeling dizzy or lightheaded due to a drop in blood pressure, or having a slower-than-normal heart rate. 
• Extreme weakness or fatigue. Trouble moving around, lifting objects, or performing routine tasks, along with a profound sense of exhaustion. 
• Impaired coordination and reflexes. Staggering or stumbling when walking (unsteady gait) and clumsiness. 
• Possible loss of consciousness. Passing out or being hard to rouse can also indicate overdose. In high doses or combined with other depressants, a person can slip into a coma.  

Dangers of an Overdose

Taking too much Ativan can lead to serious, life-threatening complications. The dangers of an overdose depend on the dosage, individual tolerance, and whether other substances were consumed. One of the main concerns with Ativan overdose is the risk of severe sedation and unconsciousness. When a person has trouble staying awake, they can unintentionally injure themselves by falling. If an overdose is large enough, or combined with other CNS depressants, a person can go into a coma. 

Another danger of Ativan overdose is respiratory depression. High doses of Ativan can slow breathing significantly, putting a person at risk of brain damage, coma, or death due to a lack of oxygen. Cardiovascular issues (low blood pressure, slow heart rate) and cognitive impairment are also concerns associated with Ativan overdose. Surviving an overdose can also trigger severe withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures. 

In the Event of an Overdose

If you suspect an Ativan overdose, take immediate action. This is a medical emergency that can lead to life-threatening complications if it’s not handled appropriately. 

The first thing to do is call 911. Every second counts, so do not wait for symptoms to improve. Inform the dispatcher of the information you know, such as the person’s symptoms, how much Ativan was taken, and if other substances were involved. Once first responders are on their way, stay with the person and monitor their breathing. 

• If the person is unconscious but breathing, place them in the recovery position (on their side with their head tilted back) to prevent choking. 
• If the person is not breathing or breathing extremely slow, start CPR, if you are trained to do so. 

On average, it takes about 7-8 minutes for first responders to arrive, though this depends on your location. In the meantime, try to keep the person awake and alert, encourage deep breathing, and watch for signs of worsening, such as sedation or confusion. Do not give the person anything by mouth. When first responders arrive, they will assess the situation, treat the person, and bring them to the nearest hospital where they can be treated for their symptoms. 

Risk Factors for Ativan Overdose

Ativan overdose can occur in anyone who takes more than their body can handle. However, certain risk factors increase the possibility of an overdose happening: 

• Taking higher-than-prescribed doses or taking multiple doses too close together. 
• Mixing Ativan with other substances, such as alcohol, opioids, muscle relaxers, and other benzodiazepines. 
• Underlying health conditions, such as respiratory conditions, liver disease, kidney disease, or heart conditions.
• History of substance use disorder, as this puts a person at a higher risk for misusing the medication. 
• Older adults (65+) due to slower metabolisms, a higher likelihood of falls and fractures, and increased sensitivity to Ativan’s effects. 
• Long-term use and physical dependence, meaning more of the medication is needed to achieve the same effects. 
• Using Ativan without a prescription or illicitly obtaining benzodiazepines from the black market. Counterfeit Ativan can contain harmful substances like fentanyl, which can be deadly even in small amounts. 

The best ways to avoid an Ativan overdose are by taking the medication as prescribed, avoiding mixing the medication with alcohol, opioids, or other depressants, and speaking with your doctor before increasing or adjusting your dose. Always store the medication securely and out of reach of others, and seek professional support immediately if you experience tolerance or misuse. 

Treatment Options for Ativan Misuse in Prescott, AZ

Since benzodiazepine withdrawal can be life-threatening, you should always start the recovery process with detox under medical supervision. This can take place in a structured setting, such as in a hospital or specialized detox facility. Doctors typically gradually reduce the dose of Ativan rather than stopping cold turkey, as this minimizes withdrawal effects. The tapering process can take weeks or months, depending on the level of dependence. 

Once withdrawal symptoms have tapered off, you can address the psychological aspects of your substance use, such as anxiety, low self-worth, and stress. Individuals can participate in an inpatient or outpatient Ativan rehab program where they receive effective therapies like CBT, DBT, and trauma therapy. Medication-assisted treatment can also be beneficial in easing withdrawal symptoms and preventing return to use. Support groups, lifestyle changes, and coping strategies like mindfulness, meditation, and yoga can also help reduce anxiety without medication. 

If you or a loved one is experiencing substance misuse, get in touch with Wolf Creek Recovery today. We provide a caring, compassionate environment for individuals to work through their struggles, develop healthy coping skills, and overcome their dependence on substances. Aside from evidence-based therapies, we also teach our clients how to manage stress and anxiety through outdoor activities (camping, team sports, paddleboarding) and relaxation techniques like mindfulness and yoga. To take the first step toward the path to recovery, contact our admissions department at 833-732-8202. Build a life you love. 

FAQs About Ativan Overdose

What is an Ativan overdose? 

An Ativan overdose is a medical emergency that occurs when a person ingests more Ativan than their body can safely process. 

Can you reverse an Ativan overdose?

Yes, Ativan overdose can be reversed, but immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent life-threatening complications such as respiratory failure, coma, and death. 

Are there medications to treat an Ativan overdose? 

The treatments for Ativan overdose include airway and breathing support, IV fluids, activated charcoal, and flumazenil (a medication that blocks the effects of benzos). Individuals also require continuous monitoring because Ativan has a long half-life, meaning its effects can last for days.