How to Safely Discontinue Ativan (Lorazepam) Use

Key Takeaways

• Ativan Overview: A benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety and insomnia, with a risk of dependence even when used as prescribed.
• Benefits of Quitting: Increased energy, clearer thinking, and reclaiming control over your life.
• Withdrawal Risks: Stopping Ativan abruptly can cause severe symptoms, including seizures and coma.
• Safe Discontinuation: Gradual tapering is the safest method, potentially involving substitution with a longer-acting benzodiazepine.
• Detection Times: Ativan is detectable in blood for 9–16 hours and in urine for 1–7 days, influenced by factors like age, dosage, and liver function.
• Treatment Options: The Recovery Village Salem offers comprehensive detox and rehabilitation programs to support safe discontinuation and long-term recovery.
• Support and Insurance: We accept various insurance plans and provide 24/7 support to guide you through your recovery journey.

If you intend to cease using Ativan, implementing a tapering schedule can help gradually reduce your dosage and minimize withdrawal symptoms. Individuals struggling with Ativan addiction might find medical detoxification more beneficial.

Ativan (lorazepam) is a benzodiazepine commonly prescribed to manage anxiety and insomnia. It functions by dampening communication between the brain and body, which can lead to dependence even when used as directed. The approach to discontinuing Ativan varies based on individual needs, but the safest method is to gradually reduce the dosage to alleviate withdrawal discomfort or undergo medical detox to manage the process effectively.

Advantages of Stopping Ativan

Discontinuing Ativan, especially after prolonged use, offers numerous benefits, including:

• Increased Energy and Alertness: Without Ativan, you may experience a boost in energy levels. Common side effects of Ativan, such as dizziness and fatigue, are reduced.
• Enhanced Mental Clarity: Ativan can cause drowsiness and impair memory and reaction times. Stopping its use can restore clear thinking and improve problem-solving abilities.
• Regaining Control Over Your Life: The most significant benefit of quitting Ativan is reclaiming your autonomy. Dependence on Ativan can dominate your thoughts and actions, but discontinuing its use allows you to regain control and focus on your personal life.

Is It Possible to Stop Ativan Abruptly?

Stopping Ativan suddenly, also known as “cold turkey,” is not advised. Even when taken as prescribed, Ativan can lead to physical dependence. This is because Ativan slows brain signals, and over time, your body adjusts by altering receptor numbers, resulting in tolerance. Just as tolerance develops, it is crucial to taper off Ativan gradually to allow your body to adapt.

Abrupt cessation can trigger severe withdrawal symptoms, including discomfort, seizures, and even coma. Therefore, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider before stopping Ativan. Together, you can devise a safe and effective plan to discontinue the medication.

Withdrawal Symptoms from Ativan

Withdrawal occurs when Ativan use is reduced too quickly. Symptoms may include:

• Sedation
• Fatigue
• Memory Impairment
• Slurred Speech
• Poor Concentration
• Mood Swings
• Irritability

How to Safely Discontinue Ativan Use

Your strategy to stop taking Ativan will depend on your unique situation, but the safest approach involves a gradual tapering of the medication to lessen withdrawal symptoms and enhance the likelihood of successfully quitting.

Gradual Weaning Off Ativan

For those who have used Ativan for more than a few weeks or at higher doses, the safest method is to reduce the dosage slowly. This gradual reduction allows your body to adjust to lower levels of the drug, minimizing withdrawal symptoms and making the process more manageable.

Example Ativan Tapering Schedule

Each individual’s tapering schedule will be personalized based on their specific dosage and usage patterns. An example tapering plan might look like this:

• Week 1: Slight dose reduction.
• Week 2: Decrease the total daily dose by 25%. For those taking Ativan multiple times a day, this means a 25% reduction of the total daily intake.
• Week 3: Another slight dose reduction.
• Week 4: Reduce the dose by an additional 25% (total reduction of 50% from the initial dose before tapering).
• Weeks 5–8: Maintain the reduced dose to allow your body to adjust.
• Week 9 and Beyond: Continue reducing the dose by 25% every two weeks until discontinuation is achieved safely.

Substitution Taper Method

Using a substitute benzodiazepine can facilitate the tapering process. Ativan has a rapid onset and intermediate half-life, making it more habit-forming. Switching to a longer-acting benzodiazepine like Valium (diazepam) can help by allowing less frequent dosing due to its extended half-life. Once substituted, you can gradually taper the substitute benzodiazepine, easing off Ativan more comfortably.

Duration for Ativan to Exit Your System

Generally, Ativan is detectable in blood for 9–16 hours and in urine for 1–7 days. Several factors influence how long Ativan remains in your system, such as:

• Age: Younger individuals typically metabolize Ativan faster than older adults.
• Body Weight: Higher body mass can slow drug elimination.
• Liver and Kidney Function: Impaired liver or kidney function can prolong Ativan clearance.
• Dosage and Duration: Higher doses and longer usage periods can extend detection times.
• Other Medications: Concurrent use of other drugs can affect Ativan metabolism.

Medical Detox in Salem, OR

Quitting Ativan can be challenging and potentially unsafe without professional support. The Recovery Village Salem offers medically supervised detox programs to ensure a safe and comfortable withdrawal process. Our detox typically spans seven to ten days, with daily visits from your counselor and physician as part of your dedicated healthcare team. Following detox, we provide a range of inpatient and outpatient services to support your journey toward a healthier, drug-free life.

The Recovery Village Salem is an in-network provider for many insurance companies. For more information about our accepted insurance, visit our insurance page or contact us directly. Our qualified medical staff are available 24/7 to assist you in starting your recovery. Reach out today to begin your path to lasting healing.