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Is it possible to get addicted to Ativan after only using it 2 to 3 weeks?

answered 04:57 PM EST, Fri January 31, 2014
anonymous anonymous
Is it possible to get addicted to Ativan after only using it for 2 to 3 weeks? I had a bottle of about 50 1 mg tablets that I took over this period. I was going through a difficult break up and sleeping problems sadness are why I used them but I didn’t plan on using them after I ran out. I ran out about 36 hours ago and I have not slept and feel incredibly anxious ever since? How long will this feeling last. It is really horrible.

Dr. Stuart Shipko Says...

In a word, yes.  You are not addicted in the classical sense, but have developed a dependency.  The rate at which this can occur is highly variable.  In your case dependency is more likely because you took a relatively high dosage.  Fifty 1 mg tablets over 20 days comes out to more than 2 mg a day.  I imagine that it made you really sedated at first.  I would have started a new patient on something closer to 0.5 mg once or twice a day - or even less.  Withdrawal symptoms tend to peak at around 48 to 72 hours.  Then it typically will remit over the next week or two.   I suggest that you call your doctor and get a prescription for a few 0.5 mg tablets and some tapering instructions. 

     
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Page last updated Jan 31, 2014

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