Ativan Overdose Signs, Symptoms, and Causes

Ativan, also known as lorazepam, is a prescription medication commonly used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and certain seizure disorders. While effective when taken as directed, misusing Ativan or taking too much can lead to serious consequences, including overdose. But what exactly happens during an Ativan overdose, and how can you recognize the warning signs?

An overdose of Ativan can cause dangerous symptoms such as extreme drowsiness, slowed breathing, confusion, and even loss of consciousness. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening without immediate medical attention. This article will explore the risks of Ativan overdose, the symptoms to watch for, and what steps to take if you or someone you know is at risk.

What Is Ativan?

Ativan, known generically as lorazepam, is a prescription medication belonging to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines. These drugs are mainly used to treat anxiety disorders, insomnia, and seizures because of their ability to depress the central nervous system.

According to experts, Ativan enhances the effects of a natural chemical in the brain known as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps to calm the nervous system and provide a relaxing effect. Due to its potent effects, Ativan is typically prescribed for short-term use under strict medical supervision to avoid dependency and potential misuse.

Side Effects of Ativan

Like any medication, Ativan can cause side effects. Some common side effects include:

Drowsiness/Dizziness
Dry mouth
Constipation
Blurred vision

Less common side effects of Ativan include:

Trouble remembering things.
You may experience mood swings or irritability.
Increased risk of falls.
Severe respiratory depression/difficulty breathing.

If you experience any side effects from Ativan, talk to your doctor. They may be able to adjust your dosage or prescribe a different medication.

Ativan Misuse and Addiction

While Ativan can be a helpful medication when used as prescribed, it can also be misused or lead to addiction. Misusing Ativan means taking it in a way that is not intended by your doctor, such as taking more than prescribed, taking it more often than prescribed, or combining it with other drugs or alcohol.

Signs of Ativan misuse and addiction may include:

Tolerance: This means that you need to take a higher dose of Ativan to get the same effect.
Dependence: This means that your body becomes physically dependent on Ativan, and you may experience withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking it suddenly.
Cravings: This means you have a strong urge to take Ativan, even if it is causing problems in your life.

It is important to talk to your doctor if you are concerned about Ativan misuse or addiction. Effective treatments are available to help people struggling with these issues.

Can You Overdose on Ativan?

Yes, it is possible to overdose on Ativan. An overdose of Ativan can occur when the drug is taken in amounts exceeding the prescribed dosage or when combined with other depressants such as alcohol or opioids. This can lead to dangerously enhanced effects and potentially life-threatening symptoms.

Symptoms of an Ativan overdose may include:

Extreme Drowsiness: The individual may appear unusually sleepy or difficult to wake, progressing to a stupor or coma in severe cases.
Mental Confusion: Profound confusion, problems with memory, or an inability to think clearly or respond appropriately to social cues.
Slowed or Difficult Breathing: This includes shallow, slowed, or labored breathing, which is one of the most dangerous signs of a benzodiazepine overdose.
Hypotension: Low blood pressure, which can cause fainting, dizziness, or blurred vision.
Motor Control Loss: Lack of coordination, trouble walking, or inability to control movements, which can appear similar to alcohol intoxication.
Muscle Weakness: Severe lethargy or weakness, leading to an inability to move or respond.
Bluish Lips or Fingertips: A sign of oxygen deprivation due to respiratory depression.

The risk of overdose increases significantly if Ativan is used in a way that is not prescribed, such as taking it more frequently, in higher doses, or for longer than directed.

Additionally, combining Ativan with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol or opioids increases the risk, as these combinations can lead to respiratory failure, coma, and even death.

Understanding the Maximum Dose and Overdose Levels of Ativan

The maximum recommended dose of Ativan (lorazepam) depends on the medical condition being treated, the person’s age, and overall health. Here’s a general guideline recommended by the National Library of Medicine:

Anxiety Treatment: For adults, the usual daily dosage for managing anxiety ranges from 2 to 6 mg, divided into smaller doses throughout the day. The largest dose is generally recommended before bedtime due to its sedative effects.
Insomnia Due to Anxiety or Situational Stress: A daily dose of 0.5 to 2 mg may be given, usually at bedtime.
Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome: For treating alcohol withdrawal symptoms, the recommended dose is 2 to 4 mg as needed, with the dose determined by a severity assessment scale.

Ativan Overdose Threshold

According to the warning label provided by the FDA, the maximum therapeutic dose of Ativan is 10 mg per day. However, the overdose threshold can vary widely depending on individual tolerance, the duration of use, and whether other depressant drugs are also being taken.

Generally, taking more than 4 mg of Ativan without tolerance could pose risks, and doses exceeding this without medical supervision can lead to overdose symptoms. However, higher doses may be administered safely under close supervision in medical or emergency settings.

It’s important to note that what constitutes an overdose can be lower in individuals with low tolerance, in the elderly, or when mixed with other substances like alcohol or opioids.

What to Do in Case of an Ativan Overdose

If you suspect an Ativan overdose, taking immediate action can be life-saving. Dial 911 or your local emergency number immediately. Provide clear and concise information about the situation, including any known details about the Ativan use, the amount taken, and whether other substances were also ingested.

If you suspect someone else of having an Ativan overdose, here are some tips for what you can do:

Do Not Leave the Person Alone: Stay with the individual until help arrives. Continuously monitor their breathing and responsiveness.
Keep the Person Awake and Upright: If the person is conscious, keep them awake and sitting to help maintain an open airway and prevent choking.
Gather Medication Information: Collect the Ativan bottle or any other substance containers to give to the emergency responders. This will provide them with important information about the dosage and potential interactions.
Do Not Induce Vomiting: Forcing someone who has overdosed to vomit can lead to additional complications, such as aspiration, where vomit is breathed into the lungs.

Following these tips can influence the outcome of an Ativan overdose. Quick and efficient action ensures the best support until professional medical treatment is available.

Treatment for Ativan Overdose

The treatment for a Lorazepam overdose depends on the severity of the overdose and the person’s general health. Medical professionals may use a combination of the following treatments:

Supportive care may include monitoring the person’s vital signs, ensuring adequate oxygen, and treating any underlying medical conditions.
Flumazenil: Flumazenil is a medication that can reverse the effects of Ativan. It is often used in emergencies to treat Ativan overdose.
Gastric lavage (stomach pumping): This involves washing out the stomach to remove any remaining Ativan.
Activated charcoal: Activated charcoal is administered to help clear ingested toxins and can help absorb any remaining drug in the gastrointestinal system, reducing further absorption into the bloodstream.
Dialysis: In severe cases, dialysis may be necessary to remove Ativan from the body.

A qualified medical professional should administer the treatment for Ativan overdose, so if you suspect an Ativan overdose, it’s important to call emergency services as soon as possible. Recovery from an overdose can vary, with immediate medical intervention often leading to a better prognosis.

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Addressing Ativan Addiction and Finding Help

Ativan can be a helpful medication when used as prescribed, but it’s essential to be aware of the risks of misuse, addiction, and overdose. If you are struggling with Ativan misuse or addiction, there is help available. Treatment programs can address both the physical and psychological dependence on the medication.

With facilities in multiple states, including Illinois, New Jersey, and Colorado, Footprints to Recovery offers specialized treatment programs for Ativan addiction, which include medically supervised detox, individual and group therapy, and personalized recovery plans designed to address the unique needs of each person.

If you are concerned about your own, or a loved one’s, Ativan use, visit Footprints to Recovery to learn more about treatment options and how we can help you or your loved one start on the path to recovery.

Remember, taking the first step is often the most challenging, but it’s also the most crucial. Reach out today and begin your journey to a healthier, drug-free life.