Many people in the United States take prescription medications to manage the symptoms of a medical or mental health condition. Some of these medications have the potential for abuse and addiction. 

Benzodiazepines like Ativan are prescription drugs with a risk of abuse and addiction. People who take Ativan to manage anxiety disorders and other conditions may develop physical dependence on it. People with Ativan addiction must have the support of medical detox and treatment programs.

This article will explore what to expect during withdrawal from Ativan. You will learn:

• How Ativan addiction develops
• Common Ativan withdrawal symptoms
• How long the withdrawal process can take 
• What treatment is available for acute withdrawal symptoms
• Where to find addiction treatment and behavioral therapies

If you or someone you love struggle with Ativan addiction, you are not alone. Stopping Ativan can be challenging, but The Living Room offers comprehensive, compassionate treatment programs. Contact our intake specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment. 

What is Ativan?

Ativan (lorazepam) is a prescription benzodiazepine drug. Medical professionals may prescribe Ativan to help patients manage medical and mental health conditions, including:

• Anxiety and panic disorders
• Seizure disorders
• Muscle spasms
• Insomnia
• Agitation
• Alcohol withdrawal 
• Bipolar disorder

People who use Ativan may develop tolerance (needing more to get the desired effects) and addiction to it. 

Understanding Ativan Addiction

Some people may develop pleasurable side effects while taking Ativan, including:

• Relaxation
• Euphoria
• A sense of wellbeing and calm

These feelings may make people want to use higher doses of Ativan or take it more often. They may take it for longer periods than prescribed or ingest it differently, such as crushing and snorting their pills. Some people may also use Ativan recreationally (without a prescription). 

Over time, Ativan abuse can lead to physical dependence. When someone develops Ativan dependence, they cannot simply choose to stop using it. They may experience challenging withdrawal symptoms that increase the risk of relapse. 

Most people with Ativan addiction require treatment, including a taper schedule and medical detox services, to stop taking it. 

Common Ativan Withdrawal Symptoms

People who suddenly stop taking Ativan may develop withdrawal symptoms, including:

• Nausea
• Headaches
• Abdominal cramping
• Excessive sweating
• Poor concentration
• Tremors
• Confusion
• Seizures
• Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
• Anxiety
• Panic attacks

These symptoms can vary from person to person or change over time. Medications, emotional support, and a taper schedule can help to minimize withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse. 

How Long Does Ativan Withdrawal Last?

Ativan withdrawal can be challenging. People who become addicted to benzodiazepines typically require intensive treatment to manage withdrawal. After detox, they must continue seeking treatment to develop the skills to avoid relapse. 

There are many factors that can affect how long Ativan withdrawal lasts. These include:

• How long someone has been abusing Ativan
• The person’s general health
• Age
• Weight and body composition
• Mental health conditions
• Other substances they abused at the same time

The symptoms of benzodiazepine addiction can vary among those who abuse it. People who have been taking Ativan to manage anxiety may require additional treatment and support to find a new way to treat their anxiety. 

The Ativan Withdrawal Timeline: Symptoms and Treatment

Many factors can impact how long Ativan withdrawal lasts. However, symptoms typically follow a common timeline. 

Knowing what to expect throughout Ativan withdrawal can help you stay motivated when detox is challenging. Here is an overview of the Ativan withdrawal timeline. 

Day one

The first day of Ativan withdrawal may be very challenging. People may experience:

• Elevated blood pressure
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Fast heart rate

The risk of relapse is high in the first few days of Ativan withdrawal. The support of a detox program is critical during this period. 

Three to five days

Most people experience acute symptoms for up to five days after quitting Ativan. During this time, new symptoms may develop, including:

• Confusion
• Heart palpitations
• Nausea and vomiting
• Excessive sweating
• Tremors
• Mood swings
• Panic attacks

Some people may develop seizures during this stage of withdrawal. Medical supervision and treatment are critical during this stage of recovery. 

Ten to twelve days

For many, withdrawal symptoms may begin to improve after about ten to twelve days. However, some symptoms, including headaches and anxiety, may linger for several more days or weeks. Emotional support and treatment are still critical to reduce the risk of relapse. 

Two weeks and beyond

Most people notice their symptoms begin to improve significantly after about two weeks. Some people continue to struggle with intense cravings. 

After completing a medical detox program, people must receive comprehensive treatment that includes coping skills, education, behavioral therapies, and counseling. These therapies will help people to identify and address the roots of their substance abuse. 

In rare cases, people may develop a condition called post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). People who develop PAWS may have long-lasting withdrawal symptoms. PAWS can cause depression, anxiety, insomnia, cravings, and other symptoms for several months after detox is complete. 

People with PAWS must seek additional support and treatment to reduce the risk of relapse. PAWS treatment may include medications, counseling, education, and lifestyle changes. 

Find Treatment Now

Ativan withdrawal can be challenging, but comprehensive treatment and support can help people stop safely. If you or someone you love struggles with Ativan abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact The Living Room specialists to learn about our programs. Reach out for answers to your questions, verify insurance, or schedule an intake appointment. 

References:

1. National Institute of Health (NIH): Lorazepam
2. Science Direct: Lorazepam
3. JAMA Network: Benzodiazepine Discontinuation and Mortality Among Patients Receiving Long-Term Benzodiazepine Therapy
4. Sage Journals: Experiences with benzodiazepine use, tapering, and discontinuation: an Internet survey