Ativan Addiction

Addition to Ativan is a problem that will require treatment. When a person has become addicted to this medication, it is possible to experience symptoms of withdrawal if it is stopped. Symptoms of withdrawal include panic attacks, seizures and hallucinations. When taking doses of Ativan that increase or you feel that you cannot stop taking this drug it is important to talk to your doctor.

An Outline of Addiction to Ativan

Ativan is a medication available by prescription that is used in the treatment of anxiety. This medication is part of the group of medications known as benzodiazepines. As with all benzodiazepines, it is possible to develop an addiction to Ativan. Addiction is a dependence of a certain drug that makes a person feel as if they must have the medication to survive, even though there is no medical need to take it. When this medication is taken for longer than recommended periods of time or at higher doses than recommended, addiction becomes more likely. It is also more likely to occur in people who have a history of addiction to alcohol or drugs.

CNS Depressants - What You Need to Know

The group of drugs known as central nervous system depressants, or CNS depressants is often referred to as sedatives or tranquilizers. These substances are able to slow the normal brain activity and function to help a person relax. Because they have this ability, there are some CNS depressants that can be used when treating sleep disorders and anxiety. One example of CNS depressants benzodiazepines. Aside from Ativan, other medications that fall under this category include Valium, Xanax, Klonopin, and Librium. The other class of CNS depressants is known as Barbiturates. Nebutal and Mebaral are examples of barbiturates.

Signs of Addiction to Ativan

When a person has an addiction to prescription medications the body cannot function properly without the medication. Symptoms of withdrawal are likely to occur when this happens. Symptoms of Ativan withdrawal might include:

• Feelings of anxiety
• Acting tense or "uptight"
• Feelings of depression
• Insomnia
• Disorientation
• Profuse or cold sweating
• Irritability or feelings of restlessness
• Unsteadiness or dizziness
• Changes in mood or personality
• Numb or tingling extremities
• Sound and light sensitivities
• Vomiting, diarrhea or nausea
• Irregular heartbeat or heart palpitations
• Rapid heartbeat
• Loss of memory
• Fever
• Panic attacks
• Seizures
• Hallucinations

When people begin to notice these symptoms, they think that they need to keep taking their medications in an effort to keep them from returning. If you find that you are taking higher doses of Ativan or if you worry that you cannot stop taking the medication, it's time to talk to your doctor. Ativan addiction can be a very serious problem that will require proper treatment.

Tips to Help When Dealing With an Ativan Addiction

In spite of the many benefits of benzodiazepines hold the possibility for abuse. Because of the addictive nature of these medications, you should only use them as your doctor recommends. When a person first takes a benzodiazepine such as Ativan, it is likely that sleepiness and lack of coordination will occur, however, as the body gets used to the effects of this medication, the feelings will begin to dissipate. If a person takes these drugs for long periods of time, the body is likely to become tolerant and it will be necessary to take more of the medication to get reach the desired results. Continued and ongoing use of these products can cause a physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms if stopped. Since Ativan slows the activity of the brain, if a person stops taking this medication, the mind will begin to race uncontrollably, which can lead to seizures or other negative consequences. It is important to realize that while withdrawal from Ativan can be frustrating and uncomfortable, it is not very often life threatening. Since this is the case, if a person is suffering from Ativan withdrawal or considering stopping taking this medication it's important to talk to a health care provider for assistance.