Snorting Ativan

Ativan, as prescribed by a physician, comes in tablet form and oral administration is the most common method of abuse. However, Ativan can also be crushed into a powder that a user can ingest nasally, an action that results in expedited transit to the brain and nervous system.

Ativan (lorazepam) is a prescription benzodiazepine (benzo) drug that is indicated for the treatment of anxiety, panic disorder, and insomnia. Like all benzos, Ativan has a strong potential for misuse and addiction.

After Ativan has been inhaled, rapid absorption of the drug produces a rush of GABA that initiates the user’s desired euphoric “high” and activates its addictive potential.

Dependency, Tolerance, and Addiction

Ativan is addictive because it impacts the center of the brain responsible for reward, specifically the neurotransmitter GABA, a chemical that is involved with feelings of relaxation and well-being.

Signs and symptoms of Ativan addiction include, but are not limited to the following:

• Continued use of the drug despite negative physical and psychological effects.
• Loss of interest in activities and interests once considered important or enjoyable.
• The use of Ativan in dangerous or inappropriate situations.
• Adverse changes or problems in other areas of life such as work, school, relationships, and finances.
• General malaise, lethargy, or sedation.

Regular intranasal use of Ativan can lead to tolerance and dependency. When dependency manifests, the user experiences highly unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when he or she attempts to quit using or cut back.

Ativan Withdrawal

The onset of withdrawal effects is a tell-tale sign that the user’s system has become comprised and less capable of functionally properly without the drug’s presence. These mental and physical symptoms often persist for several days after the user’s last dose.

Symptoms of Ativan withdrawal may include but are not limited to the following:

In addition to dependency, long-term Ativan abuse will lead to tolerance – a condition in which the chemicals in the brain become desensitized to the drug and increasing amounts are required to achieve the euphoric high.

Unfortunately, this cycle of accelerated use and reduced response can result in a rapid worsening of the addiction and ultimately, life-threatening complications.

However, dependency and tolerance are not the only critical health conditions that can manifest from this means of delivery—snorting Ativan can also produce nasal infections and cause irreversible damage to the septum and surrounding tissue.

Other possible side effects and dangers of snorting Ativan include:

Snorting Ativan and Overdose

Snorting Ativan, especially in combination with other drugs or alcohol can lead to life-threatening central nervous depression, overdose, and death.

Symptoms of an Ativan overdose include:

From Detox to Addiction Treatment and Beyond

Ativan abuse is a dangerous habit that can result in a myriad of adverse effects, yet many people who are dependent on prescription drugs such as Ativan negate the seriousness of their condition. Refusal to seek help can be life-threatening, and seeking treatment in any phase of dependence is crucial to recovery.

Detox

Medical treatment for Ativan dependency begins with our detox program, a clinical process in which the patient is closely supervised around-the-clock and withdrawal symptoms are addressed to minimize pain and discomfort.

To minimize withdrawal symptoms, weaning is advised for most Ativan users in which a physician gradually lowers the dose of Ativan over a period of time, until the drug can be stopped without compromising the patient’s health or wellness.

Following detox, patients are urged to undergo admission to one of our evidence-based addiction treatment programs. Formats include both residential stay (inpatient) and intensive outpatient therapy.

Treatment for Ativan Addiction

Ativan dependency is grave and potentially life-threatening disease that requires long-term treatment and support. While there are no cures for substance use disorders, they can be treated. Those who seek help and enter recovery can regain their lives and ultimately experience long-term sobriety and well-being.

Getting More Information

We provide a comprehensive, holistic method to treatment, encompassing a wide array of different evidence-based practices in combination. All of Midwood Addiction Treatment’s primary therapists are either licensed or master’s level clinicians; our programs are structured with various components of evidence-based treatment practices and holistic approaches to treatment that provide our patients with the knowledge and tools they need to be successful in their recovery.

If you or your loved one is suffering from substance abuse, please seek help as soon as possible. Call us now to learn about our treatment options!