RSS Ativan Addiction
What is Ativan?
Ativan is the trademarked brand name for the generic prescription medication Lorazepam. It is one of the benzodiazepines that are usually prescribed for treating anxiety disorders and panic attacks. However, it is popular for recreational use and can easily lead to Ativan addiction. The drug exhibits certain effects that are intrinsic to benzodiazepine medications that are classified as:
- amnesics
- anticonvulsants
- anxiolytics
- hypnotics or sedatives
- muscle relaxants
Ativan is oftentimes prescribed for the treatment of other conditions such as acute seizures, treating hospital patients who exhibit aggressive behavior, and those suffering with insomnia. The drug inhibits the central nervous system and decreases mental or physical excitement as well as targeting one of the neurotransmitters of the brain which is known as gamma-aminobutyric acid.
Ativan side effects
There are two categories of side effects that Ativan typically exhibits – the more common and the more severe ones. Common side effects normally include weakness, unsteadiness, lightheadedness, headaches, drowsiness, dizziness, and clumsiness. Severe side effects include severe allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, and chest tightness. You may experience swelling of the face, lips, mouth, and tongue as well as suffering with erratic mood swings, extreme changes in your mental state, and memory loss.
Ativan abuse, addiction, and dependency
As with any other benzodiazepines or Lorazepam-based medications, Ativan exhibits a high potential for recreational use and abuse, addiction, and dependency issues are very common. Addiction can easily result from taking the drug as prescribed as well as using it recreationally because how rapidly a tolerance for it builds up. The bottom line is that the recreational use of this drug is growing and hence the growing need for more Ativan addiction rehab programs. Due to dependency and tolerance issues, it is recommended that Ativan only be used for a period of no longer than 4 weeks.
The Freedom Center is here to help you
Our addiction treatment and recovery facility offers customizable Ativan addiction programs that will address your personal needs so that you overcome your dependency and start living a substance-free lifestyle. Our addiction specialists know that it takes more than just ridding your body of an addictive substance to overcome any addiction. We are also well aware of the fact that a comforting and relaxing living environment is more conducive to long-lasting recovery.
That is why we designed our rehab facility to look more like a residence rather than a clinic, hospital, or motel like the more traditional addiction treatment and recovery centers. In addition to this, we offer you a variety of recovery tools such as classes and educational materials to further enhance your recovery while you are in residency here. Please contact the Freedom Center today for more information on our Ativan addiction program.
