Lorazepam Abuse, Addiction & Treatment

Lorazepam Withdrawal Symptoms: Breaking Addiction with Treatment

People with anxiety often turn to medications as a way to manage their symptoms and allow them to live more normal, functional lives. These anxiety medications can be quite effective, particularly when used alongside therapy. One such medication is Lorazepam, which works rapidly to diminish anxiety symptoms by boosting the levels of a soothing neurotransmitter in the brain known as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). It is designed for short-term use and should not be taken for more than four weeks due to the risk of dependence and addiction. As noted by VeryWellMind, dependence can occur even when the medication is taken as directed, and it often becomes apparent only when an individual tries to stop taking the medication and experiences Lorazepam withdrawal symptoms, which requires prescription drug detox in Los Angeles to overcome.

The body can become reliant on Lorazepam and other benzodiazepines mainly due to their interaction with the central nervous system (CNS). Lorazepam enhances the effects of GABA, a neurotransmitter that slows down brain activity, leading to calming and sedative effects. Prolonged use of Lorazepam causes the brain and body to adjust to its presence, altering brain chemistry. As a result, the brain begins to depend on the drug to maintain normal activity levels, making it less stable without it, which can lead to Lorazepam withdrawal when stopping the medication. These withdrawal symptoms may prompt individuals to continue using the drug to alleviate discomfort, and they can include:

• Anxiety or panic attacks
• Depression
• Dizziness and unsteadiness
• Headaches
• Irritability
• Muscle pain and stiffness
• Tremors

In severe cases, hallucinations, delirium, and grand mal seizures
The likelihood of experiencing withdrawal symptoms increases with high doses or when Lorazepam is combined with other substances. Misuse of Lorazepam is prevalent, as some may use it recreationally in larger amounts or mix it with other CNS depressants like opioids or alcohol to amplify its effects. Long-term use and abuse can lead to addiction, which is often challenging to overcome without professional assistance. Medical detox programs are available to support individuals in ceasing Lorazepam use, whether they are physically dependent or have developed a substance use disorder. These programs guide patients through the withdrawal process, utilizing tapering methods and medications to alleviate uncomfortable symptoms and ensure safety.

Lorazepam Effects

Just like any other prescription drug, there are side effects associated with taking lorazepam. According to The National Health Service, more common symptoms may include extreme fatigue, muscle weakness and problems with coordination. More severe side effects of lorazepam use may include:

• your breathing becomes very slow or shallow
• your skin or the whites of your eyes turn yellow; this could be a sign of liver problems
• you find it difficult to remember things (amnesia)
• you see or hear things that are not there (hallucinations)
• you think things that are not true (delusions)
• you keep falling over

Signs of Lorazepam Abuse and Addiction

Developing an Ativan addiction is easier than one might think and can easily lead to abuse and addiction. Mistakenly misusing or mistaking a substance is a big factor in how an addiction can develop. Someone who is abusing benzodiazepines and has developed a psychological dependence may start to act differently. A substance abuse disorder may be present if two or more of the following symptoms are experienced:

• Needing to take more to achieve the same effects
• Impaired performance at work, school, or home  
• Spending a considerable amount of time trying to get the drug, use, and recover from it
• Cutting themselves off from friends or family in order to use Benzos
• Craving the drug
• Intentionally misusing Benzos for intoxication or pleasure
• Decreased motivation or productivity 

Prolonged drug abuse can affect the body physically as well. Physical dependence may cause the following abuse symptoms to develop:

• Physical weakness
• Slurred speech
• Loss of coordination
• Aggression
• Irritability 
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Difficulty breathing
• Tremors
• Coma

Can Lorazepam Affect the Liver?

Although Lorazepam is generally considered to have a relatively low impact on liver function compared to other medications in its class, it can potentially affect the liver as it is metabolized in this organ. A study featured in Case Reports in Gastroenterology highlighted a case of a man who experienced drug-induced liver injury after using Lorazepam for five months, prompting a caution for healthcare providers regarding the potential for unforeseen liver damage linked to this medication. For individuals with existing liver issues, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis, the risk of liver damage from Lorazepam may necessitate lower dosages or even avoidance of the drug altogether. Those with pre-existing liver conditions might metabolize Lorazepam at a slower rate, resulting in elevated drug levels in their system, which could heighten the likelihood of side effects, particularly sedation.

The risk of liver injury from Lorazepam escalates when it is combined with other substances that are also processed by the liver, like alcohol. Moreover, the dangers of mixing Lorazepam with other sedatives extend beyond liver concerns, as it raises the potential for addiction and overdose, requiring the need to conduct a self-assessment to determine if inpatient addiction treatment is needed The combination of central nervous system depressants can amplify sedation and respiratory depression, increasing the risk of accidents, falls, and potentially life-threatening respiratory issues. Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to liver complications such as fatty liver, cirrhosis, and liver failure, and the addition of Lorazepam may further elevate these risks.

Does Lorazepam Increase the Risk of Dementia?

There is ongoing research into the long-term effects of benzodiazepines like Lorazepam, particularly in older adults, and whether they increase the risk of dementia. An article in Psychiatric Times highlights emerging evidence suggesting that the use of benzodiazepines, including Lorazepam, may elevate the likelihood of developing dementia in older adults. While some studies indicate a possible connection between prolonged benzodiazepine use and dementia, the precise nature of this relationship remains unclear.

Lorazepam works by suppressing the central nervous system, and its extended use has been associated with a heightened risk of cognitive issues, including memory deficits. Nevertheless, some health professionals argue that the underlying conditions, such as anxiety and insomnia, for which Lorazepam is prescribed, may pose a more significant threat to cognitive health, including the risk of dementia. Additionally, the level of risk can differ based on individual factors, including genetics, as well as the duration and dosage of Lorazepam usage. If you have concerns about the side effects and addiction risks with medications and are struggling to discontinue the medication due to withdrawal symptoms of Lorazepam, it may be beneficial to consider a medical detox program. Such a program can assist you in safely managing Lorazepam withdrawal and provide effective guidance for tapering off the medication.

Does Lorazepam Make It Hard to Wake Up?

Lorazepam acts as a depressant on the central nervous system, often leading to drowsiness, sedation, and fatigue. These effects can make it challenging to wake up the following day, resulting in a sense of grogginess. The likelihood of experiencing these symptoms increases with higher doses or when combined with other depressants such as alcohol and opioids. It is sometimes prescribed for insomnia due to its ability to induce deep sleep. Individuals who take it late in the evening or right before bedtime may find it particularly difficult to fully wake up or feel alert in the morning. While ongoing use may lessen next-day drowsiness and grogginess, the sedative properties of Lorazepam also raise concerns about overdose risks, particularly when misused, which can lead to severe consequences like unresponsiveness, respiratory issues, and even fatality.

Does Lorazepam Change Your Mood?

The chemical composition of Lorazepam is designed to calm the brain and nervous system, helping to alleviate anxiety and restlessness. However, it may also dull emotional responses, potentially leading to depression or exacerbating pre-existing depressive symptoms. Some users might experience shifts in mood or even suicidal thoughts. In rare instances, Lorazepam can trigger feelings of rage, agitation, aggressive behavior, or irritability. While it is meant for short-term relief of anxiety-related mood issues, it does not tackle the root causes of these emotional disturbances. Long-term use can also lead to dependence, Lorazepam withdrawal side effects, and other negative effects which can further affect mood and emotional well-being. Therapy and counseling can help treat anxiety by teaching coping strategies and providing long-term relief from symptoms.

Contact Resurgence Behavioral Health for Help With Lorazepam Withdrawal Symptoms

If you’re finding it difficult to stop your medication due to Lorazepam withdrawal symptoms, reach out to Resurgence Behavioral Health today to join one of our medical detox programs. We offer expert support and guidance to help individuals safely and comfortably discontinue Lorazepam and other benzodiazepines. Our experienced team of clinicians will evaluate your specific situation and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs, whether you’re dealing with Lorazepam dependence or require more comprehensive care for addiction. We also provide dual diagnosis treatment to address any underlying or co-occurring mental health issues, such as anxiety, through therapy, counseling, support groups, and holistic methods.
To find out more about our programs for Lorazepam dependence and addiction, contact Resurgence Behavioral Health today at 855-458-0050.

External Sources

• VeryWellMind – Ativan Withdrawal Symptoms and Coping
• Case Reports in Gastroenterology – Lorazepam as a Cause of Drug-Induced Liver Injury
• Psychiatric Times – Benzodiazepine Use and the Risk of Dementia