Ativan Addiction Treatment And Rehab Options

Ativan is an anti-anxiety medication that has a high potential for abuse. There are a variety of treatment options for those struggling with Ativan addiction, including detox programs, inpatient rehab centers, behavioral therapy, and aftercare programs.

Ativan is a powerful sedative that is classified as a benzodiazepine. This central nervous system depressant is often prescribed to treat seizure disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, and anxiety.

People with Ativan prescriptions should take the medication exactly as prescribed. Otherwise, they risk dependence and addiction. A person struggling with Ativan addiction may begin to take more medication in order to amplify the drug’s effects.

People who take Ativan for any length of time may notice they aren’t getting the same effects the dose used to deliver. This is called tolerance. Developing a tolerance to Ativan may cause people to abuse the medication, by snorting or injecting the substance for intensified effects.

High amounts of the drug can lead to dependence, where the body needs the drug in order to function. This can quickly lead a person down the path of addiction, which can result in serious health risks.

Ativan abuse can be treated in a variety of addiction rehab programs. Treatment options for Ativan addiction will differ, based on their level of dependence, additional health conditions, and whether they are struggling with any other drugs.

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Treatment Options For Ativan Abuse

Anyone who has a prescription for Ativan is at risk for abuse and addiction. Ativan addiction is more common among those who have mood disorders or struggle with anxiety and depression.

Fortunately, there are several types of treatment options that help to address Ativan abuse.

Detox Programs For Ativan Addiction

Taking Ativan long-term can cause a person to become dependent, which means their body requires the drug in order to function properly. If a person stops taking Ativan, they could experience acute withdrawal symptoms. Ativan withdrawal should be medically supervised.

Symptoms of Ativan withdrawal include:

  • agitation
  • anxiety
  • irritability
  • insomnia
  • muscle aches
  • trouble concentrating
  • headache
  • tremors
  • nausea or diarrhea
  • psychosis
  • cravings

Because Ativan withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable, many people find it helpful to detox in a medical setting. Medical detox programs help patients taper off their current Ativan dose, and provide support during the withdrawal phase.

Medical staff may also provide certain medications that help to relieve withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal can be life-threatening, and should always take place under medical supervision.

Inpatient Treatment For Ativan Addiction

Residential or inpatient rehab centers are the most secure level of treatment. These rehab programs are designed to address the unique needs of those struggling with Ativan addiction.

In an inpatient rehab center, clients are provided with a daily structure of activities and counseling groups, including 12-step support, nutrition and wellness, and creative arts therapy.

Most inpatient rehab centers will provide each patient with a comprehensive treatment plan. Treatment teams that include doctors and therapists work together to assess each individual client. Then, they create a personalized treatment plan based on that person’s unique needs.

The client’s treatment team may also prescribe medications to manage any lingering withdrawal symptoms. These medications can also help to prevent relapse.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment For Ativan Addiction

When a person struggles with both a substance use disorder and a mental health condition, they have a co-occurring disorder. Sometimes called dual diagnosis, co-occurring disorders require specialized therapy in order to ensure the whole person is treated.

People who suffer from co-occurring disorders may have been taking Ativan for a serious medical condition, such as anxiety. After withdrawing from Ativan, they may experience “rebound symptoms,” such as worsened anxiety or insomnia.

In a dual diagnosis treatment program, a person’s substance use is treated alongside their mental health condition. This holistic approach helps patients understand the underlying cause of their Ativan abuse.

Outpatient Treatment For Ativan Addiction

Once a person has completed inpatient treatment for Ativan addiction, they can step down to an outpatient treatment program. Sometimes referred to as “day treatment,” outpatient programs are offered in full-day or half-day sessions.

Many outpatient treatment programs focus on behavioral therapy, in individual and group settings. Behavioral therapy helps patients to explore the benefits of abstinence, recovery and living sober.

Outpatient rehab centers also use cognitive behavioral therapy, where patients learn to examine their thoughts and behaviors around substance abuse. Patients engage in group therapy that focuses on coping skills, goal setting, and relapse prevention strategies.

Because outpatient programs are less secure, this level of treatment is recommended for those who have strong support systems and a low chance of relapse.

Aftercare Treatment For Ativan Addiction

People that have completed an inpatient or outpatient treatment program may be nervous to return to their everyday lives, especially if they do not live in supportive environments.

In these cases, countless men and women have benefited from aftercare treatment, which can include ongoing therapy or living in a sober house. Sober living options can include a house or apartment that is shared by recovery-minded companions.

Often supervised by a recovery counselor or licensed therapist, sober houses can be a helpful option for those who could benefit from continued support after a treatment program.

Getting Help For Ativan Addiction

Benzodiazepines like Ativan are some of the most commonly abused drugs across the country. If you are concerned that someone you love is struggling with Ativan addiction, know that affordable treatment options exist throughout the U.S.

To learn more about Ativan addiction treatment and rehab options near you, reach out to one of our specialists today.

MedlinePlus - Lorazepam

U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health - The benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome

National Institute on Drug Abuse - Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide (Third Edition)

National Institute on Drug Abuse - What Are "Co-Occurring" Disorders?

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