If you are not sure what Ativan is, it is a brand name of lorazepam, which is a benzodiazepine drug. Other common benzodiazepines, or benzos, are Xanax and Valium. Doctors commonly prescribe Ativan to treat anxiety and seizures. But like most drugs, Ativan is also very addictive. The drug’s sedating effect is what many crave and chase by taking more and more of it. Stopping the use of the drug can be difficult once addiction has taken hold. Professional intervention is highly recommended to withdraw from drug use in a safe and supportive way.
You might be wondering how long does Ativan last in the body after use and what a treatment program would look like. Women’s Recovery offers Ativan addiction treatment in Colorado, specifically for women, so call on the team today at 833.754.0554.
How Long Does Ativan Last in Your System?
In addition to being used to treat conditions like anxiety, seizures, and insomnia, Ativan is also used as a sedative during surgeries and other procedures. Like any drug, Ativan has side effects and can stay in your system for a good length of time. It is also very addictive, even with prescribed use.
If you are wondering how long Ativan stays in your system, it can vary.
- It can be found in blood up to 6 hours after ingesting
- It can be found in saliva 8 hours after ingesting
- It can be found in urine up to 6 days after ingesting
- It can be found in one’s hair up to 1 month after ingesting
Side effects of Ativan use can be short-term and long-term. Some short-term effects include headaches, nausea, weight loss or gain, vision problems, and low blood pressure. Long-term effects include hypoventilation (respiratory depression) and coma.
What to Expect with Ativan Treatment
When you decide to remove Ativan from your system, symptoms of withdrawal set in. These symptoms can be severe and difficult to manage, so getting treatment at a professional treatment center is often necessary. Withdrawal symptoms start within a day or two after stopping drug use. The symptoms can include insomnia, anxiety, muscle spasms, body shakes, memory loss, and more. Over time, symptoms will get better, but post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS) can continue randomly.
Once someone is deemed “clean” of the drug, more traditional therapies can begin, such as individual, group, and family talk therapies. A therapeutic professional will help craft a personalized treatment plan unique to each client’s needs. A plan could include therapies like neurofeedback therapy, nutrient therapy, and behavior modification therapy.
Anxiety is diagnosed more often in women than men, on average. As a result, Ativan is prescribed to women at a higher rate than men. This also puts women at higher risk of becoming addicted to Ativan, which is why professional drug addiction treatment options designed specifically for women exist.
Contact Women’s Recovery About Ativan Treatment in Colorado Today
At Women’s Recovery, we offer a safe and supportive environment where women can recover from substance use or mental health disorders. The center also provides dual diagnosis treatment if a co-occurring disorder exists. Each gender has its own unique challenges when it comes to addiction. Having therapeutic professionals who understand these challenges and treat them accordingly is a big advantage on your treatment and recovery journey.
Women’s Recovery in Colorado is a team led by women who provide treatment for other women in a safe and supportive environment. Treatment includes a variety of therapies, peer support groups, and a fully holistic approach to helping clients realize the goal of lifelong recovery.
Call Women’s Recovery today at 833.754.0554 or reach out to us online.