How is Ativan used to treat opiate withdrawal?
How is Ativan used to treat opiate withdrawal?
Most patients going through withdrawal experience anxiety, insomnia, and muscle aches (issues Ativan is commonly used to treat.). As such, Ativan may appear as an attractive treatment for opiate withdrawal. However, because of its potential for addiction, it is not commonly prescribed to patients with a history of opiate abuse.
What happens to your body when you stop taking Ativan?
Once the individual abruptly stops taking the particular drug, the system is thrown off balance, and this produces a number of physical symptoms known as withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal from a benzodiazepine like Ativan can be potentially dangerous and even fatal due to the potential to develop seizures during the withdrawal process.
Is there a detox clinic for Ativan addiction?
In a special detox clinic, your comfort and safety will be assured. Overcoming an Ativan addiction permanently involves detox and its associated withdrawal. As a benzodiazepine, Ativan is a highly addictive drug that can easily trap a person who takes it for longer than the normally prescribed four to six weeks.
Is it safe to wean off of Ativan?
Weaning off the medication reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings. In addition, if seizures develop, they can be addressed immediately, and the person can be safely treated without serious medical complications. Here are a few suggestions that may be helpful for someone who has made a commitment to quitting Ativan:
How long does it take for withdrawal symptoms from Ativan?
Ativan has a half-life of 10-12 hours on average, so withdrawal symptoms can start relatively quickly (within 24 hours) following the last dose.
When do withdrawal symptoms of lorazepam wear off?
Lorazepam withdrawal symptoms are likely to develop within 6 to 8 hours after the last dose wears off, peak in intensity on the second day, and improve by the fourth or fifth day. 9 As with many other drugs, the type and intensity of withdrawal symptoms are based on a combination of factors, including:
What’s the best way to stop taking Ativan?
If you have been using Ativan for longer than six months, tapering is the only safe way to stop taking the drug. While tapering will reduce your withdrawal symptoms, it won’t get rid of them entirely.
What is the brand name for the drug Ativan?
Ativan is a brand name for lorazepam, which belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines. Ativan is often prescribed for the short-term treatment of anxiety disorders.