Anxiety can severely impact all aspects of a person’s life, leading many to seek relief through prescription medications. However, this raises the question: What if the medication becomes addictive? For those taking or considering medications like Ativan, the concern is real. Tampa Bay Recovery Center explores Ativan addiction and offers outpatient programs designed to fit into daily schedules, providing help without neglecting personal responsibilities.
What is Ativan?
Ativan, a benzodiazepine, is a prescription medication known for its sedative effects. The generic name for Ativan is lorazepam, and it is typically prescribed to treat anxiety disorders. It helps individuals relax and reduce stress, and can also aid those with insomnia related to anxiety. Ativan is taken orally, and its use should be monitored by a healthcare professional.
Is Ativan Addictive?
To understand whether Ativan is addictive, we must consider several factors. Lorazepam, the active ingredient in Ativan, is classified as a Schedule IV drug by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). This means it has a lower potential for abuse compared to drugs like opioids or cocaine. Other Schedule IV drugs include Xanax, Valium, and Klonopin. However, despite the “low potential” label, benzodiazepines are central nervous system (CNS) depressants and among the three most commonly misused types of drugs. This makes it entirely possible for someone to develop an addiction to Ativan.
Ativan induces relaxation and can create a euphoric feeling, making it addictive for some. Even those who initially use Ativan as prescribed can fall into a cycle of abuse. Factors such as family history of addiction, abuse of other substances (like alcohol or drugs), and mental health conditions can increase the risk of addiction. Once a person becomes addicted to Ativan, professional treatment is necessary.
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What Are the Signs of Ativan Addiction?
People who have developed an addiction to Ativan may show various signs. Whether they’ve been taking it for a short or extended period, common signs of addiction include:
- Increasing the dose due to tolerance buildup
- Doctor shopping—seeking prescriptions from multiple physicians
- Taking Ativan without a prescription
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug
- Faking symptoms to obtain more Ativan
- Ativan use interfering with personal or professional life
Ativan Withdrawal Symptoms
One clear sign that Ativan is addictive is the presence of withdrawal symptoms when someone stops or reduces their dosage. These symptoms vary based on the severity of the addiction and dosage levels. Common withdrawal symptoms include:
- Increased heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Sweating, fever
- Anxiety and irritability
- Difficulty sleeping
- Shakiness
- Headaches
- Cognitive difficulties
- Seizures and hallucinations
Ready to Escape Addiction? Let’s Get Started
Tampa Bay Recovery Center is a premier leader in addiction treatment services in Tampa. If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance use disorder, call us at (813) 733-8774 to speak with an admissions specialist and begin your recovery journey.
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How Is Ativan Addiction Treated?
Overcoming Ativan addiction requires professional help in a structured rehab program. Many find outpatient programs to be an effective option, allowing flexibility to manage personal responsibilities. Tampa Bay Recovery Center offers three levels of outpatient care:
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): The most intensive outpatient option, requiring full-day sessions several times a week.
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Attending therapy for a half-day, multiple times per week. Evening and virtual IOP options are available for added convenience.
These programs use a multi-disciplinary approach to therapy, including individual, group, family, and trauma therapy. Skilled therapists help patients identify why they are tempted to abuse Ativan and provide healthier coping mechanisms. FDA-approved medications may also be used to ease withdrawal symptoms, helping patients achieve long-term sobriety.
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Begin Treatment for Ativan Addiction Today!
If you’ve been prescribed Ativan for anxiety and are now concerned about addiction, or if you’re struggling with addiction while also managing anxiety, Tampa Bay Recovery Center can help. We provide comprehensive care for substance use disorders, including those linked with mental health concerns like anxiety. Our experienced staff uses multiple therapy modalities to support your recovery—both mentally and physically.
To get effective treatment for Ativan addiction, visit our admissions page today. Our friendly staff is ready to answer your questions and help you start your recovery journey.
