Ativan addiction in Pennsylvania and the United States as a whole continues to be a problem. It’s a widely-used prescription medication but it’s also an addictive drug when used recreationally. People addicted to Ativan often need to attend addiction treatment to achieve recovery.
Prescription drugs like Ativan are deceiving. Many believe they’re a safe option because a doctor prescribes the medication. These drugs aren’t always as harmless as they seem, though. Lots of prescription medications are highly addictive. Once dependence or addiction develops, many need the help of drug rehab in Pennsylvania to quit.
What is Ativan (Lorazepam)?
Ativan is the brand name for Lorazepam, a prescription medication used to treat anxiety. It’s part of a larger class of drugs called benzodiazepines. These medications interact with the body’s central nervous system to provide feelings of calmness. Though it’s mainly used to treat anxiety, Ativan also relieves symptoms of insomnia and epilepsy.
Ativan usually comes in the form of quickly dissolving tablets. It’s occasionally found as a concentrated, colorless liquid. Ativan is ingested orally or sometimes intravenously when in a medically-administered inpatient hospital setting. The medication is fast-acting and offers quick relief. It takes between 45 minutes and 2 hours to feel the effects of the medication.
Short-term use of Ativan is always recommended because of its high potential for misuse. Using Ativan for long periods, even as prescribed, can lead to dependence or even accidental addiction. This leads to an even greater problem.