In February 2023, 35.8% of adults in Arizona reported symptoms of anxiety or depression, which is higher than the national average of 32.3%. These individuals had a score of three or more on the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-2) and/or Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-2) scale. 

When anxiety symptoms interfere with daily life, some people turn to Ativan to relieve their symptoms. While Ativan is effective at treating anxiety and insomnia, there are often safer options to consider, especially for older adults who are more vulnerable to adverse effects. Here in Arizona, over 295,000 benzodiazepine prescriptions were written for adults between the ages of 65-74 in 2023. However, these medications can cause more problems in the long term, including uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. 

As one of the most trusted recovery programs in Yavapai County, Wolf Creek Recovery is experienced in treating benzodiazepine use disorders. What many people don’t realize is that these disorders can happen at any age. Let’s learn more about what Ativan withdrawals look like, the dangers to be aware of, and the timeline that the symptoms follow. 

Ativan Withdrawals

Ativan is the brand name for lorazepam, a medication classified as a benzodiazepine. It works by enhancing GABA in the brain, helping to reduce excessive nervous system activity. Physicians commonly prescribe Ativan to treat anxiety disorders, insomnia, and sometimes seizures or postoperative sedation. Because it can produce feelings of relaxation and drowsiness, Ativan carries a risk of dependence if used long-term or at higher doses. Some withdrawal symptoms can be serious and even life-threatening without medical guidance. 

What Is Ativan Withdrawal?

Ativan withdrawal refers to the physical and psychological symptoms that occur when someone who has developed a dependence on Ativan stops taking it or suddenly reduces their dose. Because Ativan is a benzodiazepine, abrupt discontinuation can lead to intense withdrawal effects like rebound anxiety, insomnia, irritability, and tremors. In severe cases, it’s possible to experience seizures and hallucinations, which is why medical supervision is necessary. To minimize complications, medical professionals also typically recommend tapering the dose rather than stopping “cold turkey.”

Causes of Ativan Withdrawal

Ativan increases GABA levels in the brain, helping people feel calm and relaxed. Over time, the central nervous system adapts to the constant presence of Ativan, meaning normal brain function has come to rely on it. When Ativan is suddenly stopped or reduced, GABA levels drop, triggering the onset of withdrawal symptoms. The longer and higher the dose of Ativan use, the more pronounced the body’s dependence, making withdrawal more intense and potentially dangerous without medical guidance. 

Dangers of Ativan Withdrawal

Suddenly stopping or reducing the dose of Ativan too quickly can lead to severe, life-threatening complications. Severe anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, and muscle tremors can occur, and in extreme cases, seizures, hallucinations, and psychosis may develop. Because Ativan withdrawal can also lead to dangerous shifts in blood pressure or heart rate, there is a risk of serious medical complications if not managed. Fortunately, many of these serious risks can be minimized with a tapering schedule and proper medical supervision. 

Symptoms of Ativan Withdrawals

Symptoms of Ativan withdrawal can range from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening reactions. These symptoms depend on factors like dosage, duration of use, and individual factors. Generally speaking, the longer a person has been using Ativan and the higher the dose, the more severe the withdrawal symptoms. 

Psychological Ativan Withdrawal Symptoms

The psychological withdrawal symptoms can be intense as the brain adjusts to a lower level of medication. The most common Ativan withdrawal symptoms include rebound anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, and irritability. It’s also common to experience mood swings, heightened restlessness, or difficulty concentrating. In more severe cases, psychological withdrawal may involve hallucinations, paranoia, or depersonalization—a feeling of being disconnected from oneself or the world around them. 

Physical Ativan Withdrawal Symptoms

Physical withdrawal symptoms can also range from mild uneasiness to serious health risks. Common physical symptoms include tremors, headaches, sweating, nausea, and vomiting, often accompanied by a racing heartbeat and general sense of restlessness. More severe cases may involve muscle cramps or spasms, pronounced dizziness, and even seizures. These symptoms are more likely to happen if Ativan is stopped abruptly after high-dose or long-term use. 

Ativan Withdrawal Timeline

While Ativan withdrawal timelines can vary widely depending on various factors, such as dosage, length of use, and overall use, there is a general timetable that one can expect when going through withdrawals:

• Early withdrawal (12-24 hours after last dose). Symptoms usually start within the first 24 hours from the last dose and include mild anxiety, restlessness, or agitation. These symptoms happen because there is a drop in Ativan levels. Individuals may also notice increased irritability or mild insomnia. 
• Peak withdrawal (2-5 days). This is the most intense part of withdrawal because the symptoms are the strongest. They typically include heightened anxiety, insomnia, tremors, rapid heartbeat, and panic attacks. If Ativan was used in high doses or for a long period of time, this is when hallucinations, severe irritability, and seizures might occur. 
• Subacute phase (6-14 days). Many symptoms start to decrease in severity around this time, but anxiety, restlessness, and sleep disturbances may persist. Since the brain is still adjusting to lower GABA levels, mood fluctuations might also linger.
• Extended recovery (2-4 weeks and beyond). Some individuals experience prolonged anxiety, mild insomnia, or cognitive fog for several weeks. There is also something called protracted withdrawal syndrome, which can last months or even years. However, this is rare, and symptoms do ease up over time. 

Medical Detox for Ativan Withdrawals

Medical detox refers to a clinically supervised process of gradually reducing Ativan so that the individual can safely discontinue its use. During medical detox, a team of healthcare professionals monitors vital signs, manages withdrawal symptoms, and provides supportive care, such as IV fluids, anti-anxiety medications, and other therapies. This approach is the safest route, as it minimizes the risk of severe withdrawal complications such as respiratory depression or seizures. By offering a structured, controlled environment, medical detox helps stabilize patients, enhances comfort, and forms the foundation of a healthy recovery. Once detox is complete, individuals are able to further their treatment journey by starting an inpatient or outpatient Ativan rehab program. 

Get Help For Ativan Use Disorder in Prescott, AZ

Ativan use disorder is a treatable condition. Getting help involves a combination of medical detox, behavioral therapy, and supportive care to address the physical and psychological aspects of dependence. After detox, individuals can enter a rehabilitation program that provides therapy, support, and education. Behavioral therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) focus on identifying negative thought partners, improving coping skills, and preventing return to use. After formal treatment, ongoing support—peer groups, continued counseling—helps maintain long-term recovery and addresses underlying issues that contributed to Ativan misuse. 

Wolf Creek Recovery provides comprehensive, client-centered care for individuals experiencing substance use. Clients participate in a wide range of therapies to help them better understand their triggers and how to better cope with uncomfortable emotions. We also believe in having fun, as it’s important for individuals to see that life can be enjoyable and fulfilling without substances. Our outdoor therapy program fully supports this vision by giving clients the opportunity to go on camping trips, participate in team sports, and relax with activities like hiking and golf. Start your recovery today by contacting Wolf Creek Recovery at 833-732-8202. Build a life you love. 

FAQs About Ativan Withdrawal

What is Ativan withdrawal? 

Ativan withdrawal is the process that happens when a person who is dependent on the medication suddenly stops or reduces their dosage. 

What causes Ativan withdrawal to happen? 

Ativan enhances GABA levels in the brain. When the medication is stopped or reduced, it causes GABA levels to drop, forcing the body to adjust. This process is what causes withdrawal symptoms to happen. 

What are the most common Ativan withdrawal symptoms?

The most common withdrawal symptoms from Ativan include rebound anxiety, irritability, restlessness, mood swings, and tremors. Serious complications can occur as well, such as hallucinations, seizures, or psychosis. 

How can I go through Ativan withdrawal safely? 

The best way to go through Ativan withdrawal safely is by following a tapering schedule under medical supervision. Here, your doctor will gradually reduce your dose of Ativan and monitor your symptoms, ensuring your comfort and safety.