Ativan, also known as Lorazepam, is a central nervous system depressant medication used to treat seizures and anxiety. Unfortunately, many people abuse this drug due to its calming and sedating effects, which can lead to addiction. Anyone who wants to reduce or quit Ativan should get medical assistance to ensure a safe detox. Ativan detox can pose several risks to the affected individual, including the potential for seizures.
Quitting Ativan benefits your physical and mental health by allowing you to regain control of your life. It is advisable to work with a qualified medical professional who can set up an Ativan taper schedule for you to follow.
Tapering off Ativan gradually is the best way to quit using this drug. You should never try to quit Ativan cold turkey as it can shock the body, causing lingering withdrawal symptoms that can be hard to manage.
You are better off attending a qualified detox center with trained medical professionals experienced in handling benzodiazepine withdrawal. In severe cases involving co-occurring disorders or extreme lorazepam withdrawal, you might need to attend an inpatient tapering facility to ensure the process goes comfortably and safely.
Stopping Ativan use is not as simple as it sounds because withdrawal symptoms can be dangerous and uncomfortable. Therefore, the patient will need comprehensive care and medical supervision during an Ativan detox.
Quitting after developing Ativan dependence
Ativan is an addictive and habit-forming drug producing pleasurable and calming effects in the user. When one becomes dependent on this medication, they can become afraid to run out of the drug or take more than the recommended dosage when they have a bad day.
If you become dependent on this drug after many years, quitting Ativan becomes much more challenging. Long-term benzodiazepine use can cause severe physical and mental symptoms. Studies indicate that they can persist for longer than desired if you don’t conduct detox and rehabilitation the right way.
Withdrawal symptoms to expect during an Ativan detox include:
Seizures- Physical problems like stomach cramps, nausea, and sweating
- Hallucinations
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Fear
Someone experiencing intense benzo withdrawal might have psychotic reactions and physically draining symptoms, making them believe they will never get better. However, with the right treatment team on your side to assist you with your Ativan detox and rehab treatment, recovery is achievable.
Most cases of Ativan withdrawal can be so unpleasant to the user that medical supervision in an inpatient treatment program is necessary. Trying to find out the best and safest treatment option when it comes to Ativan detox can be overwhelming. Below are options to consider when choosing a safe Ativan detox process.
Rapid Detox
This process is similar to alcohol and drug detox. It offers the patient a quick ending to their drug use, typically lasting 3 to 7 days. During this period, you will be under medical observation by medical professionals. Vitals are maintained at normal levels, and psychotropic medications or sedatives are administered to reduce discomforts such as rebound anxiety. At times, patients will be discharged and given other drugs to take home.
However, rapid detox is usually not recommended since it does not give the central nervous system, the brain, and the body enough time to get used to not having the drug. Instead, talk to your healthcare provider or doctor to design a tapering program that works for you. This will help you gradually and gently regulate your neurochemistry even before you can start tapering off Ativan.
Tapering prevents the body from going into shock during an Ativan detox after long-term abuse while substantially hastening the recovery process.
Detoxing at Home
You can reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms during an Ativan detox using over-the-counter remedies. You can buy these alternative remedies from pharmacies and health food stores to take home without medical supervision. Headaches can be managed with aspirin, insomnia with melatonin, and apple cider vinegar or peppermint tea for indigestion.
Even though these remedies can help address some withdrawal symptoms during Ativan detox, benzo withdrawal can still be dangerous and should be conducted by an experienced medical professional. When the symptoms worsen, you should contact a medical facility or a doctor for assistance with Ativan withdrawal.
Ativan Detox Taper
The best way for most people to get off Ativan safely is by gradually tapering off it under medical supervision. Sometimes benzodiazepine tapers can go on for over one year and, if conducted gradually with proper support, can decrease the chances of severe symptoms. Transitioning off Ativan slowly can alleviate withdrawal effects on the patient’s daily responsibilities or work duties.
In case primary symptoms persist or become too much to handle if you are doing an Ativan detox at home, seeking assistance from a professional can help move things along safely and comfortably.
There are also inpatient treatment facilities that conduct the drug detox process using proven methods to help patients get through the challenges associated with Ativan withdrawal. Going through an Ativan detox in a wellness center, a detox program, or under medical supervision is the best and safest option for quitting this drug.
Medical treatment professionals can provide helpful recommendations for sustaining a healthy lifestyle once you return to your life outside the program. Establishing a healthy routine once you’re drug-free is essential to deal with the emotional, mental, or physical symptoms. Ask for resources from your doctor or counselor during your consultation and follow-up visits. If you are recovering from Ativan abuse or addiction, it is essential to prioritize all aspects of your health to maintain long-term recovery and sobriety.