A high potency, short to intermediate acting benzodiazepine, Ativan’s five intrinsic effects are anxiolytic, amnesic, sedative/hypnotic, anti convulsant and muscle relaxant. Targeting the central nervous systems (CNS), it is used for the short term treatment of anxiety, insomnia, Ativan abuse in South Florida is growing.
Dependence as a result of Ativan abuse in South Florida has been reported in approximately one third of individuals who are treated for longer than four weeks. The higher the dosage and the longer the benzodiazepine is taken, increases the risk of developing dependence to the drug. Individuals desiring amnesic and sedative effects tend to be those struggling with Ativan abuse in South Florida. The likelihood of dependence is relatively higher with Ativan when compared to other benzodiazepines due to it’s relatively short serum half life, reported to reinforce psychological dependence.
Due to the high potency of Ativan, even in the smallest dose, there is a risk of tolerance. Additionally, withdrawal symptoms can occur after taking Ativan for as little as one week. Withdrawal symptoms include headaches, tension, anxiety, depression, insomnia, restlessness, confusion, dizziness, irritability, sweating, hypersensitivity to light, sound and smell as well as hallucinations, delirium and seizures.
In 1999, it had been estimated that nine million people, ages 12 and over, use prescription drugs for non medical reasons, with more than a quarter of that number reporting using prescription drugs non medically for the first time in the previous year. These numbers are staggering and should be cause for concern given that the rise in prescription drug abuse has not slowed.
If you, or someone you know, is struggling with any sort of dependence to prescription drugs, there is help. The Delray Center for Healing offers both inpatient and outpatient treatment options for their patients. They will work with you and around your schedule to develop the best plan that will help you beat your addiction and stay clean.
