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Ativan Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline & Detox Treatment

Ativan withdrawal side effects can occur when someone addicted to Ativan stops using it or reduces their dose too quickly. Even those who follow their prescription and take the recommended dose can experience withdrawal symptoms. About 40% of people who take Ativan for over 6 months might have moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly stop the drug.

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In this article, understand the Ativan withdrawal side effects, withdrawal timeline, warning attached, and long-term treatment to cope with Ativan withdrawal. 

Ativan Dependence 

Ativan is a benzodiazepine, a type of drug that slows down the central nervous system and has a calming effect. These drugs can cause tolerance and dependence, even when used as directed.

Ativan is a very commonly prescribed drug. In 2017, doctors wrote nearly 26.5 million prescriptions for it. By 2018, around 5.4 million people over every 12 had misused prescription benzodiazepines like Ativan. Drug dependence can develop with Ativan even if you follow the prescribed dosage strictly.

People often don’t realize they’re dependent on Ativan until they try to stop and experience Ativan withdrawal side effects & symptoms. 

Ativan Withdrawal 

Ativan can cause withdrawal symptoms when you stop using it or cut the dose too quickly. Dependence can develop in just a week, as the body relies on the drug to function. Withdrawal happens because the brain and body need to adjust without Ativan, leading to physical and psychological discomfort. 

Benzodiazepines like Ativan are intended for short-term use but are often used longer, which can cause dependence in just a few weeks. The majority of people using Ativan for more than 6 months experience moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms if they stop suddenly, while the rest have milder symptoms. Withdrawal severity also depends on the dose and if Ativan is combined with other benzodiazepines.

Ativan Withdrawal Timeline 

Stopping or cutting your Ativan dose suddenly can cause Ativan withdrawal side effects and symptoms within eight to 12 hours, lasting from one to four weeks. Research indicates that withdrawal severity depends on factors like the drug’s half-life, duration of use, and daily dose. 

Ativan is a short-acting benzodiazepine with a long duration, so withdrawal symptoms may take longer to appear compared to other benzodiazepines. Here’s a general timeline for Ativan withdrawal:

  • 24 Hours

Mild symptoms may begin, such as headaches, restlessness, sleep issues, cravings, and nausea.  

  • 1 to 4 Days

Withdrawal symptoms reach their peak, which can be severe. It’s important to get care from a treatment center during this time, as severe symptoms like seizures or psychosis might appear.

  • 10 Days to 2 Weeks

Symptoms should decrease around the 10th day and typically end in two weeks. However, some people may develop post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), which causes ongoing psychological symptoms that can last several months after acute withdrawal.

 

Ativan Withdrawal Side Effects 

According to the manufacturer’s label, reported Ativan withdrawal side effects include: 

 

  • Cravings
  • Insomnia
  • Irritability
  • Hand tremors
  • Sweating
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Confusion
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Headache
  • Muscle pain or stiffness
  • Anxiety
  • Mood swings
  • Blood pressure changes
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Palpitations
  • Weight loss
  • Panic attacks

Coping and Relief for Ativan Withdrawal 

The best way to manage benzodiazepine withdrawal is to slowly taper off the medication under a doctor’s supervision rather than quitting “cold turkey.” To avoid severe withdrawal from Ativan, work with your healthcare provider to gradually reduce your dose over weeks or months.

Your doctor might switch you to a longer-acting benzodiazepine like diazepam to help stabilize you before starting the taper. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all tapering schedule; the higher your dose, the more significant the initial reduction. Typically, the dose is reduced by 10 to 20% each week, with small amounts prescribed to prevent overuse.

If you’ve used an Ativan for more than six months, tapering is essential for safely stopping. While tapering helps lessen withdrawal symptoms, some symptoms may still occur with each dose reduction.

Ativan Withdrawal Warnings 

Quitting Ativan abruptly can be risky due to its powerful effects on the brain. Most people can manage withdrawal with outpatient care from a primary care physician or psychiatrist, who will monitor your progress through regular visits and calls.

Inpatient Detoxification

Inpatient detox may be necessary if you have a history of complicated withdrawals, seizures, or severe mental illness. This involves staying at a detox or rehab facility for several weeks for close monitoring.

Return of Psychiatric Symptoms

Ativan withdrawal can trigger the return of psychiatric symptoms like severe anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and depression. If these symptoms become severe, inpatient treatment might be needed. Discuss options with your psychiatrist, explore insurance coverage, or find uninsured facilities if required.

Considerations for Pregnant Women

For pregnant women, the FDA warns of risks associated with Ativan. Consult with your psychiatrist or obstetrician to weigh the risks of continuing versus stopping the medication during pregnancy.

Long-Term Treatment for Ativan Withdrawal 

Ativan withdrawal side effects can be challenging and may persist for a long time, with symptoms fluctuating during tapering. Some people taper off within 3 to 4 weeks, while others may take up to 12 months. Longer tapers might be more comfortable but only sometimes lead to better outcomes. It’s crucial to taper continuously with decreasing doses and avoid reversing direction.

For those who have been misusing Ativan, tapering alone might not be sufficient. Cognitive behavioral therapy and other psychotherapies can help address the reasons behind Ativan use and support healthier choices. If total abstinence causes psychological distress, aiming for a reduced dose may help manage tolerance and minimize side effects.

Treatment in an inpatient or outpatient program offers the best chance for successful recovery. These programs assist with the detox process, making it safer and more comfortable.

FAQs: Ativan side effects withdrawal 

Que: Can you just stop taking 1mg of lorazepam?  

Ans: It’s important to consult your doctor before stopping lorazepam. They might suggest gradually reducing the dose to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Que: Do Ativan side effects go away?  

Ans: Yes, side effects from Ativan are usually temporary and can last from a few days to weeks.

Que: Is 0.5 mg of Ativan addictive?  

Ans: Yes, even a low dose of Ativan can be addictive.

Que: What is considered long-term use of lorazepam?  

Ans: Using lorazepam for more than 2 to 4 weeks is considered long-term and can increase the risk of dependence.

Que: Is it normal to take Ativan every day?  

Ans: Taking Ativan daily for more than a month is generally not recommended, as it can lead to dependence.

Conclusion  

If you’re considering stopping or reducing your Ativan dose, start by talking to your prescribing physician. To manage Ativan withdrawal side effects effectively, focus on your behavior and stay in touch with conveniently located healthcare providers, as you may need multiple visits during the tapering process.

Treatment in an inpatient or outpatient program offers the best chance for a successful recovery, making the detox process safer and more comfortable.

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