How Long Does Lorazepam Last?

How Long Does Lorazepam Last — And What Should You Know About It?

Lorazepam, commonly known by the brand name Ativan, is a benzodiazepine medication frequently prescribed to treat anxiety disorders. It works by calming the nervous system, offering fast-acting relief for people struggling with intense stress or panic.

However, while lorazepam is effective for short-term anxiety management, it’s also a drug with a high potential for misuse and addiction. In this post, we’ll cover how long lorazepam lasts in the body, how it works, potential side effects, and the warning signs of dependence.

How Long Does Lorazepam Last?

Lorazepam typically begins to work within 20 to 30 minutes of being taken. Most commonly prescribed in tablet form, it’s absorbed quickly through the digestive system. The effects usually last between six and eight hours, though this may vary depending on your metabolism, dosage, and overall health.

If you notice that your anxiety symptoms return sooner than expected, or if you feel the medication isn’t lasting long enough, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider rather than adjusting your dosage on your own.

How Lorazepam Works

Lorazepam is classified as a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, meaning it slows down activity in the brain and body. It works by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that produces calming, sedative effects.

By boosting GABA activity, lorazepam helps quiet overactive brain functions associated with anxiety, racing thoughts, and tension. This is why benzodiazepines are often referred to as “downers” in recreational drug circles.

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Common Side Effects of Lorazepam

Even when taken as prescribed, lorazepam can cause a range of side effects, some of which may be uncomfortable or even dangerous. These include:

Low blood pressure
Memory issues
Headaches
Blurred vision
Nausea or constipation
Slurred speech
Irritability or mood swings
Sleep disturbances
Depression
Behavioral changes
Respiratory issues
Loss of consciousness

Lorazepam may also interact negatively with alcohol or other drugs, so it should never be taken without a prescription or medical supervision.

Is Lorazepam Addictive?

Yes, lorazepam is habit-forming, especially when used outside of its intended short-term prescription guidelines. It’s designed to offer temporary relief, not long-term management. Because of its relaxing and sedative effects, many people are tempted to take more than prescribed, or continue using it after their prescription ends.

Increasing your dose without medical advice is not only dangerous, but it can also lead to tolerance, dependence, and full-blown addiction.

If you feel lorazepam isn’t managing your anxiety as it once did, speak with your doctor about safer alternatives or dosage adjustments. Never attempt to self-medicate.

Warning Signs of Lorazepam Addiction

Addiction doesn’t always look the same for everyone, but here are some common signs that may point to a lorazepam dependency:

Mood swings or emotional instability
Secretive behavior
Taking lorazepam daily or in larger amounts than prescribed
Attempting to obtain the drug without a prescription
“Doctor shopping” for more medication
Inability to stop or limit use
Building a tolerance (needing more to feel the same effect)
Constant drowsiness or bloodshot eyes
Difficulty staying awake
Slurred speech
Loss of interest in hobbies or responsibilities

Getting Help for Lorazepam Addiction

While lorazepam can be effective for short-term anxiety relief, prolonged or recreational use can lead to serious consequences. If you or someone you love is struggling with a lorazepam addiction, there is help available.

Our treatment programs are designed to help you safely detox from benzodiazepines and rebuild your life with healthier coping strategies. Don’t wait—reach out today to take the first step toward freedom from Ativan dependence.

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RLC Writers

Royal Life Centers writers seek to explain addiction information so that readers can understand it regardless of their background. We strive to create an open and honest dialogue about addiction while also providing helpful resources for those in need. Our goal is to help people break free from the confines of addiction, with reliable information and support from our team of medical reviewers.