Over 40 million U.S. adults experience anxiety, making it one of the most common mental health concerns in our country. At the same time, anxiety can be difficult to treat because many people end up in a self-reinforcing cycle that can be hard to break.
Each state looks a little different when it comes to mental health disorders like anxiety. Mental Health America ranked Arizona 35th (out of 50 states), meaning it has a higher prevalence of mental illness and lower rates of access to care. For those who do receive treatment through a doctor, it often involves short-term fixes such as benzodiazepines.
While benzos are effective at reducing anxiety in the short-term, they can cause physical and psychological dependence. At Wolf Creek Recovery, we have supported individuals who were prescribed benzodiazepines such as Ativan to manage their anxiety, only to find themselves inadvertently developing a benzodiazepine use disorder.
Fortunately, treatment is available for Ativan use disorder. Let’s learn more about Ativan side effects in the short- and long-term, the various signs that may indicate misuse, and the types of help available for this condition.
Side Effects of Ativan
Ativan (lorazepam) is a benzodiazepine prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. When taken appropriately under a doctor’s supervision, Ativan is effective at relieving these symptoms. However, there is also a risk of side effects, such as overdose, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms. While these effects are more likely to show up in individuals who misuse the medication, they can still occur in individuals who use Ativan legitimately. There are also other effects that can be bothersome for some individuals, though they are generally mild. Let’s explore in more detail.
Ativan Side Effects Over Time
Ativan slows down the nervous system and reduces excitability in the brain. This eases symptoms of anxiety and restlessness, but it can also cause sleepiness and disorientation. These effects may impair reaction skills, affect a person’s ability to drive or operate machinery, or increase the risk of falls (which is particularly concerning for older adults). There are many ways to manage Ativan side effects, such as by avoiding alcohol and taking the largest dose at bedtime. Below is more detail on how Ativan side effects change over time.
Short-Term Side Effects of Ativan Use
The short-term effects of Ativan typically occur when first starting the medication or after a dosage increase. They include drowsiness and fatigue, dizziness and lightheadedness, impaired coordination and slurred speech, memory and concentration issues, low blood pressure, and emotional blunting. These effects are based on dosage, frequency, and individual tolerance. As individuals adjust to the medication, some of these effects subside or become more tolerable.
It’s important to point out that some short-term effects, while rare, can be serious. These complications are more likely to occur in a person who has taken more Ativan than prescribed or has mixed Ativan with other substances like opioids or alcohol. Serious, short-term effects include paradoxical reactions (increased anxiety or aggression), respiratory depression, and allergic reactions.
Long-Term Side Effects of Ativan Use
While effective in the short-term, there are long-term complications that can occur with repeated use of Ativan. One of the main concerns with Ativan is its potential for misuse and dependence. Individuals can develop tolerance early on, requiring higher doses to get the same effect. Physical dependence means Ativan is needed to function normally, and withdrawal symptoms can occur if stopped abruptly. To prevent this cycle, the FDA recommends limiting Ativan use to 2-4 weeks.
Ativan can also take a toll on the body, leading to cognitive impairment, mental health decline, increased risk of falls and accidents, respiratory and cardiovascular issues, and gastrointestinal effects. Some people also experience increased anxiety and depression when taking Ativan longer-term, along with mood swings, aggression, frustration, and even suicidal thoughts. It’s difficult to stop Ativan after long-term use without medical supervision due to the intense withdrawal effects.
How Ativan Affects the Mind and Body
The reason why Ativan is so effective at reducing anxiety in the short-term is that it enhances the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, a neurotransmitter that reduces overactive brain activity. In return, people feel calm and relaxed. This can be helpful in certain situations, such as for someone who is scared to fly but needs to travel by plane. But, the continued use of the medication can have lasting effects on the mind and body. This is why it’s best to limit the use of Ativan and apply coping skills when possible.
Behavioral Signs of Ativan Use
The longer a person uses Ativan, the more changes can occur in how they behave. Common indications that a person is misusing Ativan include sleeping more than usual, forgetting conversations and appointments, experiencing sudden irritability or aggression, withdrawing from friends and family, and engaging in defensive or secretive behavior. People also tend to display a noticeable change in their priorities and responsibilities, such as declining work or school performance, neglecting personal hygiene, or missing deadlines.
Physical Signs of Ativan Use
People who misuse Ativan tend to experience persistent tiredness and sluggishness, even after a full night’s rest. You might even notice that they nod off during conversations or daily tasks. They may have slurred speech and slow reactions, shaky hands or tremors, and difficulty processing new information, indicating memory and cognition issues. Since Ativan calms down the nervous system, most physical signs involve a decrease in mental and physical activity.
Psychological Signs of Ativan Use
When Ativan is used long-term or in higher doses, it can also cause a wide range of psychological symptoms, such as increased anxiety, mood swings, irritability, detachment, mental fog, depression, and impaired judgment. People who are psychologically dependent on Ativan feel they need the medication to function in their everyday life, causing them to have a preoccupation with Ativan. They might constantly think about the next dose or worry about running out of the medication.
Treatment for Ativan Use Disorder in Prescott, AZ
If you or a loved one is experiencing the effects of an Ativan use disorder, the situation can feel hopeless. However, it’s important to remind yourself that this disorder, while serious, is treatable. Many people are living in recovery and leading full lives while managing their anxiety. Safely stopping Ativan use begins with detox, where doctors typically gradually reduce the Ativan dose over several weeks or months. Withdrawal symptoms are closely monitored to ensure comfort and safety, and longer-acting benzos may be substituted and then slowly tapered down. Do not quit Ativan cold turkey, as this can lead to life-threatening symptoms.
Once the acute physical symptoms are being managed, you can start an inpatient or outpatient Ativan rehab program. These programs tackle the root causes of Ativan misuse and include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), medication-assisted treatment (MAT), support groups, and family support. Long-term relapse prevention and healthy coping skills are also part of a comprehensive recovery plan, so prepare to build a new life with regular therapy check-ins, healthy lifestyle changes, and avoiding triggers.
Have you or a loved one developed an Ativan problem? Do not be ashamed—seeking professional support is a powerful and brave step in the right direction. Wolf Creek Recovery offers comprehensive care for individuals with substance use disorders. Clients participate in evidence-based therapies like CBT and DBT, as well as learn healthy coping skills through outdoor therapy. Much of our staff is in recovery, too, so you will always have a unique source of support around you. To start your journey to healing, contact Wolf Creek Recovery at 833-732-8202. Build a life you love.
FAQs About the Side Effects of Ativan
What are the short-term side effects of Ativan?
The short-term side effects of Ativan include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, impaired coordination, slurred speech, memory issues, and low blood pressure. These symptoms generally wear off after several hours.
What are the long-term side effects of Ativan?
The long-term side effects of Ativan include dependence, cognitive impairment, memory loss, emotional numbness, increased anxiety, depression, and heightened risk of falls or respiratory issues. The longer Ativan is used, the more likely these effects are to occur.
Is Ativan use disorder treatable?
Yes, Ativan use disorder is a treatable condition that responds well to behavioral therapies, peer support, family involvement, lifestyle changes, coping skills, and in some cases, medication. With the right support, most people are able to make a full recovery, though they do need to be mindful of their triggers.
