Sunday 9 June 2013

Ativan and Alcohol Combination

Ativan and Alcohol Combination

Ativan and alcohol can be a deadly combination, but many people who abuse Ativan drink alcoholic beverages to enhance the drug’s sedative effects. Lorazepam, which is marketed under the brand name Ativan, is a benzodiazepine that is frequently prescribed to treat anxiety disorders or to promote sleep. According to the TEDS Report from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, a high percentage of people who are treated for benzodiazepine abuse also abuse alcohol, opiates or other central nervous system depressants at the same time.

Ironically, Ativan is often prescribed to reduce certain symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, such as tremors, anxiety and agitation. Understanding the ways that ativan and alcohol affect each other may help you avoid the serious dangers of taking these drugs at the same time. When you drink alcohol, the presence of the drug in your bloodstream can change the actions of other drugs, either by reducing their effects or by increasing their potency. Like Ativan, alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that slows down vital functions like your respiration and heartbeat. Combining two central nervous system depressants can increase your risk of life-threatening side effects.
ativan and alcohol

The side effects

When you drink alcohol, the presence of the drug in your bloodstream can change the actions of other drugs, either by reducing their effects or by increasing their potency. Like Ativan, alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that slows down vital functions like your respiration and heartbeat. Combining two central nervous system depressants can increase your risk of life-threatening side effects. Taking Ativan when you’re intoxicated may lead to:

Breathing problems
A dangerously slow heart rate
Confusion and disorientation
Coma
Death

Alcohol and Ativan Overdosage Simptoms

An alcohol/benzodiazepine overdose is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Look for these overdose warning signs:

Slow, shallow breathing
Weak pulse
Severely slurred speech
Cool, clammy skin
A bluish color around the lips
Temporary memory loss
Unconsciousness

If you’re with someone who passes out after having alcohol with Ativan, never leave them to “sleep it off.” Unconsciousness can lead to coma and death when these two sedatives are combined.

Note: This blog is for information purpose only. The content in this blog is written without any research, so please always consult doctor when you got the symptoms mentioned in this blog. Thank you for visiting.