By We Level Up NJ Treatment Center | Editor Yamilla Francese | Clinically Reviewed By Lauren Barry, LMFT, MCAP, QS, Director of Quality Assurance | Editorial Policy | Research Policy | Last Updated: February 20, 2023

Ativan’s Side Effects

Ativan can cause mild or serious side effects. The following list contains some of the key Ativan side effects that may occur while taking Ativan. This list doesn’t include all possible Ativan side effects. For more information on the possible Ativan side effects, or tips on how to deal with a troubling side effect, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Ativan Side Effects and Addiction Statistics

Ativan is primarily prescribed to treat anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, seizures, and alcohol withdrawal. However, when misused, Ativan can quickly become addictive. Long-term side effects of Ativan abuse can include memory problems, impaired thinking, and decreased motor coordination. Additionally, withdrawal from Ativan can be severe and uncomfortable. Treatment for Ativan addiction often includes a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy, medications, and other forms of therapy and support.

The national statistics are never a complete picture of addiction rates. What you should know is that according to statistics on Ativan addiction, benzodiazepine use is consistently high. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, less than 1% of people aged 12 and older misused prescription benzodiazepines like Ativan in the past month. Additionally, the non-medical use of benzodiazepines has been declining since the early 2000s.

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Ativan Uses

This drug is prescribed to relieve anxiety. Lorazepam belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines which act on the brain and nerves (central nervous system) to have a calming effect. Ativan works by boosting the effects of a specific natural molecule in the body. Ativan side effects should be discussed with your doctor before using the drug.

How To Use Ativan

As prescribed by your doctor, take this medication by mouth with or without food. The dosage is determined by your age, health status, and treatment response.

Use this medication as prescribed by your doctor to get the most benefit from it. Use it at the same time(s) every day to help you remember.

Although Ativan may be of benefit to patients, this medication occasionally leads to addiction. If you have a substance use disorder, such as excessive or compulsive drug or alcohol use, your risk may be higher. To lessen the possibility of addiction, take this medication exactly as directed. To learn more, consult your physician or pharmacist.

Do not abruptly stop taking this medication without first talking to your doctor. When this medication is abruptly stopped, certain conditions could get worse. It might be necessary to gradually reduce your dosage.

Long-term use of this medication may cause it to lose some of its effectiveness. If this medication stops working as well, consult your doctor.

If your condition persists or gets worse or if you feel Ativan’s side effects, let your doctor know.

Ativan Side Effects Precautions

Inform your doctor or pharmacist before taking lorazepam if you have any allergies to it, other benzodiazepines (like alprazolam, clonazepam, or diazepam), or other substances. Inactive ingredients in this product have the potential to trigger allergic reactions or other issues. To learn more, speak with your pharmacist about Ativan’s side effects.

Inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history before taking this medication, especially if it includes any of the following conditions: kidney disease, liver disease, glaucoma, lung/breathing issues (such as sleep apnea), mental/mood disorders (such as depression, psychosis), or a personal or family history of a substance use disorder (such as excessive or addiction to drugs or alcohol).

This drug may cause you to feel groggy, sleepy, or have blurred vision. You may become more woozy or sleepy after consuming alcohol or marijuana (cannabis). Until you can do something safely, avoid operating machinery, driving, or doing anything else that requires alertness or sharp vision. Avoid drinking alcohol. Consult your physician if you use marijuana (cannabis).

Inform your surgeon or dentist of all the products you use prior to surgery (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Ativan Side effects in Elderly

Possible side effects of taking Ativan in elderly people include confusion, unsteadiness, falling, constipation, dry mouth, and headache. Additionally, Ativan can increase the risk of depression or worsen existing depression. It’s important to discuss with your doctor any potential risks or side effects of taking Ativan.

Ativan side effects have also been linked to an increased risk of memory problems and cognitive decline in the elderly. It can also cause low blood pressure and dizziness, which can lead to a risk of falls. It may also interfere with the metabolism of medications, resulting in potentially dangerous interactions. As with any medication, having regular conversations with your doctor and monitoring any side effects is essential.

Ativan 1mg Side Effects

The most common side effects of Ativan 1mg include sleepiness, dizziness, light-headedness, confusion, headache, blurred vision, trembling, sweating, and nausea. Other more serious side effects can include chest pain, trouble breathing, irregular heartbeat, and changes in behavior. If you experience any of these side effects, it is important to stop taking Ativan and consult your doctor right away.

Ativan 1mg side effects can also include depression, anxiety, irritability, and difficulty with concentration and memory. It may increase the risk of developing certain serious mental health problems. In some cases, Ativan 1mg side effects have been associated with an increased risk of seizures. Long-term Ativan 1mg side effects include a risk of physical dependence, which can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly. Seek medical help if you or someone you know is struggling with Ativan abuse or addiction.

Long Term Side Effects of Ativan 

Long-term side effects of Ativan can include cognitive decline, memory deficits, confusion, loss of coordination, and slowed reflexes. The long term side effects of Ativan may include increasing the risk of developing a seizure disorder, as well as increasing the risk of anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. Additionally, long-term use of Ativan may lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly.

Moreover, when taking Ativan long-term, it’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider in order to monitor any possible Ativan side effects. You should also make sure to take the medication as directed to avoid any possible complications. It’s important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are concerned about any Ativan side effects that you may experience. Additionally, you should not start or stop taking Ativan without first talking to your doctor.

Ativan Side effects in Children

In children, this Ativan side effects may have the opposite of its typical calming effect, resulting in restlessness, shaking, or changes in mental state (such as agitation and hallucinations).

The most common side effect of Ativan in children is drowsiness, although this varies depending on the child’s age and the dosage used. Other potential side effects may include headaches, nausea, irritability, aggression, confusion, restlessness, impulsiveness, and difficulty sleeping. Rarely, more serious side effects such as seizures, hallucinations, vision changes, and chest pain may occur. It is important to watch children closely for any side effects and to contact your doctor if you notice any signs of adverse reactions.

Side Effects for Ativan During Pregnancy

Ativan should not be taken during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary, as some studies suggest that it may increase the risk of birth defects and other complications. Taking Ativan while pregnant could also increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm labor, or neonatal withdrawal syndrome which could lead to developmental problems in the baby.

If you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant, let your doctor know. Lorazepam usage should not be combined with pregnancy. Consult your doctor as soon as possible about the risks and advantages of this medication if you find out you’re pregnant. An unborn child could suffer harm from lorazepam. If you observe symptoms in your newborn baby, such as slowed breathing, feeding issues, or persistent crying, call the doctor right away. For further information, talk to your doctor.

Ativan Side Effects for Breast Feeding

It is not recommended to take Ativan while breastfeeding due to the potential negative side effects it could have on the baby. However, if you and your doctor feel the benefits of taking the medication outweigh the risks, taking small doses for short periods of time may be considered safe. Be sure to monitor your baby for any signs of adverse reactions, such as excessive sleepiness, difficulty feeding, or irritability.

This medication enters breast milk. Before breastfeeding, speak with your doctor.

Ativan Effects On The Body

By slowing the activity of the brain and nerves, Ativan also affects physical functions and responses. As a tranquilizer, Ativan can make the user feel calm and physically relaxed. Ativan can also stop painful spasms in muscles, or prevent life-threatening seizures when taken correctly. For patients who take Ativan as directed for legitimate reasons, this medication is generally safe and effective. However, all users must watch out for potential adverse reactions to the drug, such as:

Since it can cause clumsiness, drowsiness, and disorientation, Ativan increases the risk of accidental injuries. The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration cautions that drugs in the benzodiazepine family, like Ativan, can cause symptoms that resemble alcohol intoxication, such as loss of motor coordination, slurred speech, visual disturbances, and blurred vision. Driving under the influence of Ativan, or performing other activities that require hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes, can be extremely dangerous, especially if the user has also consumed alcohol or other sedatives.

Ativan Effects On The Mind

Ativan can have powerful effects on the brain and nerves. However, many users experience “rebound” side effects or worsen the same symptoms that the drug is designed to treat. In particular, Ativan can cause rebound anxiety, sleep disturbances, abnormal body movements, and agitation. Other side effects can include:

The chemical structure of lorazepam is intended to reduce the excitability of the brain and nerves while soothing emotional responses that create anxiety and restlessness. On the negative side, Ativan can flatten users’ emotional responses and blunt their experiences of the world. As a result, individuals who take Ativan may begin to lose interest in their everyday experiences or responsibilities. As a result, they may feel constantly sluggish and tired and have a dazed, exhausted appearance.

How Long Do The Effects Of Ativan Last?

How long do the effects of Ativan last? The amount of time Ativan lasts will depend on both how much you take and your own body, but, in general, Ativan lasts about six to eight hours. It should start working about 20-50 minutes after you take it, and you’ll feel the effects of Ativan most strongly about two hours after taking it.

The Ativan half-life is about 12 hours, which means about half of the Ativan you took will still be in your body at that point. But how long does Ativan last in your system? For most people, Ativan will be out of their system within three days, although if you’ve been on this medication for a long time, such as a few months or more, and developed a high tolerance, Ativan can remain detectable in your body several weeks after you last took it.

Ativan Overdose

Ativan overdose may happen at any level higher than what your doctor has prescribed for you. The amount of Ativan that a person takes to reach an Ativan overdose differs from person to person. This can be based on weight, gender, genetics, and underlying health conditions, among other factors. The doctor prescribing a person Ativan is taking these factors into account when deciding what dose is safe.

Since Ativan is extremely potent and can appear harmless as a prescription drug, it may cause both accidental and intentional abuse as well as an accidental Ativan overdose. Most commonly, overdoses happen when it is taken in combination with alcohol or other drugs.

Primary signs of Ativan overdose may include the following:

Severe cases of Ativan overdose, especially when the drug was used in combination with other drugs, can be fatal.

Ativan Overdose Symptoms 

Ativan is a benzodiazepine drug prescribed to treat anxiety and seizures. Ativan should only be taken as directed by a doctor and can be dangerous in large doses. Overdosing on Ativan can lead to severe medical complications, including cardiac arrest and respiratory failure. If you or someone you know may have taken too much Ativan, seek immediate medical help.

Additional symptoms of an Ativan overdose can include:

• confusion,
• slurred speech,
• slowed breathing,
• sedation,
• coma, or
• even death.

An Ativan overdose can lead to other long-term physical and psychological effects. Some of these may include an increased risk of depression, trouble sleeping, and memory problems. These effects of Ativan may last for weeks or months, even after the Ativan has been eliminated from the body.

If you believe that you may have overdosed on Ativan, seek immediate medical attention.

How Much Ativan to Overdose?

Are you wondering how much Ativan to overdose, or what dose is required for an Ativan overdose? The exact amount of Ativan needed to overdose varies from person to person. Generally speaking, it is possible to overdose on as little as 4 mg of Ativan, but this could vary depending on an individual’s tolerance, health condition, and other factors. It is important to remember to always follow a doctor’s instructions when taking Ativan.

Ativan Overdose Reversal Treatments

Ativan overdose reversal usually occurs with clinical care such as stomach pumping, activated charcoal, flumazenil and supportive care such as IV fluids. If medical help is not sought, the effects of an Ativan overdose may include agitation, confusion, coma, and respiratory depression.

Ativan Overdose Treatment Ems

Treatment for an Ativan overdose will depend on the severity of the overdose. Generally, emergency responders will provide oxygen, fluids, and medication to stabilize the person’s breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. Activated charcoal may also be given to reduce the amount of Ativan in the body. Additionally, the person will be monitored closely and treatment may also include psychological and social support.

Antidote for Ativan Overdose 

Ativan is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, so the goal of any treatment for an Ativan overdose is to provide supportive care and reduce the amount of Ativan in the blood. Activated charcoal is the main antidote for an Ativan overdose, as it binds to the medication and prevents it from being absorbed into the bloodstream. It is important to seek emergency medical care promptly if an Ativan overdose is suspected.

Ativan and Alcohol Interaction

Even though Ativan is a prescription medication, it can be abused. One of the substances often abused with benzodiazepines such as Ativan is alcohol. This combination is dangerous because Ativan and alcohol both depress the central nervous system and can lead to slowed breathing, extreme drowsiness, coma, and death.

Since Ativan and alcohol have similar effects on the brain and body, ingesting both within the same timeframe can heighten those effects, sometimes with deadly consequences. They both inhibit the central nervous system and can lower heart rate and breathing. The effects of the two combined can be greater than if they were consumed alone. The combination can cause severe drowsiness, breathing problems, coma, and death.

Ativan and Klonopin Interactions

Drug interactions are reported among people who take Ativan and Clonazepam (Klonopin). Common interactions include weight decrease among females and depression among males. Using Ativan together with Klonopin may increase side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Some people, especially the elderly, may also experience impairment in thinking, judgment, and motor coordination. You should avoid or limit the use of alcohol while being treated with these medications.

Ativan and Adderall Drug Interactions

Adderall speeds the system up to help those who have ADD or ADHD be able to concentrate better and stay more alert. Unfortunately, some people mix Ativan and Adderall together. Mixing drugs is a way for people to extend the high they feel or prevent withdrawal symptoms from other drugs they might be taking.

Adderall and Ativan are prescription medications that are prescribed for opposing purposes. Ativan slows the central nervous system response to stress and uncomfortable situations so that a person will have less anxiety.

However, mixing Adderall and Ativan is dangerous because it increases the risk of an overdose. Other health problems can be caused by this combination, too.

Ativan Addiction Treatment

There is a strong link between mental health and substance abuse. Individuals who struggle with mood disorders like depression and anxiety are more susceptible to developing an addiction to drugs or alcohol, often to self-medicate symptoms of their underlying mental health condition. These co-occurring disorders can make each other worse without proper treatment.

To determine the most effective ways to treat Ativan side effects and addiction, it’s crucial to first get an accurate assessment of all the symptoms. When the symptoms have been evaluated by a mental health professional, it may be determined that another form of mental condition is present and needs a particular type of treatment. Very often, some combination of psychotherapy, medication, and/or lifestyle changes are effective for coping with functional.

Medically-Assisted Detox

Detox is often considered the first stage of treatment. It will help you navigate the complicated process of withdrawal, but it doesn’t address patterns of thought and behavior that contribute to drug abuse. Various treatment approaches and settings can help provide the ongoing support necessary to maintain long-term sobriety after you complete detox.

Cravings are very common during detox and can be challenging to overcome. This often leads to relapse. Constant medical care provided during inpatient treatment helps prevent relapse. Clinicians can provide the necessary medication and medical expertise to lessen cravings and the effects of withdrawals.

Psychotherapy for Anxiety

Several different modalities of psychotherapy have been used in the treatment of depression including:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – is an effective treatment that involves making changes in both the patterns of negative thoughts and the behavioral routines which are affecting the daily life of the depressed person for various forms of depression.
• Person-Centered Therapy – is a strategy that allows and encourages clients to understand and resolve their concerns in a safe, supportive environment.
• Solution Focused Therapy – is an approach interested in solutions that can be quickly implemented with a simple first step leading to further positive consequences.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Substance abuse and mental health disorders often co-occur. In many cases, traumatic experiences can result in a mental health disorders and substance abuse. Dual diagnosis rehabilitation treats both of these issues together. The best approach for the treatment of dual diagnosis is an integrated system. In this strategy, both the substance abuse problem and the mental disorder are treated simultaneously. Regardless of which diagnosis (mental health or substance abuse problem) came first, long-term recovery will depend largely on the treatment for both disorders done by the same team or provider.