Is Ativan good or bad?

[brokenagain]

Since late August I have been on Ativan to help me turn my brain off when I go to bed. I have recently read some nasty facts about Ativan but so far it has worked. I am only on 5Mg but have been told that it can be very addicting. Any comments would be helpful.

[jkl5500]

Are you sure that you're taking 5 mg of Ativan? My script is only for .5mg of Ativan.

I was told to take it "as needed", so you might want to discuss any potential addiction problems with your doctor.

[brokenagain]

Yes. I take 1Mg and not 5. My fault for getting the details wrong. I must follow all of my scripts to the Letter or I will get screwed up.

[brokenagain]

Yes, I was told the same thing, " as needed. " Most nights I do need it.

[Okidoke]

Ive found it to be very helpful, it is more fast acting than most others, but should be used carefully, only in those moments where you feel an attack is imminent or have been suffering through and can't get back on track. It isnt a cure, its a temporary relief, best used in connection with something long-term to control the anxiety. In fact, it helps while you are starting a long term drug in case you have side effects or your anxiety worsens during the initial phase. Are you taking anything else?

[brokenagain in reply to Okidoke]

No, I am not taking anything else. When I started it, I would only use it if I could not sleep. Lately, I am using it almost every night. I understand that it can be addicting and that worries me. I have had sleeping problems since late 2012. I am a survivor of a TBI and in 2013 my Endocrinologist put me on Celexa which almost brought me to the point of committing suicide. I left her care but have never been the same since her mistreatment of me. I was not depressed but just could not understand why I could not sleep. With the Ativan, I can sleep soundly. I have never been addicted to anything. Before my accident, I would smoke while at work out of nerves or pressure. I was a very good Human Resources Manager and though very successful, I put a lot of pressure on myself to always find the very best recruits to fill a position. I never would smoke in my car or at home. In 2004 I just quit one day because of the smell it left on my hands and breath. A few years ago I just stopped all caffeine during the Lenten season and did not miss it a bit. I know that drugs like Ativan are a bit more powerful. I will try to cut back and see how I do.

[Hannah712]

It is very addictive, but your doctor has to weigh the benefit vs the risk . I have .5 mg tablets and they work great for me but I only take them occasionally. My doctor said they are only a bandaid and don’t change your brain chemistry like other meds do and for long term use you need a drug that will do that - that was his opinion. If you need it you need it but I think it’s fine to question your doctor about usage and dosage . If you take them regular it can cause withdrawal symptoms when you stop so follow your doctors advice if you wean off them. Don’t stop abruptly. There are days for me that they save my life so I can focus and relax.