Ativan, which is known generically as lorazepam, is a benzodiazepine prescribed for anxiety disorders, panic attacks, insomnia, and even seizures. It is a very quick-acting sedative affecting the CNS by producing a calming effect. Therefore, it is widely used in both short-term as well as emergency medical situations.
However, what many users would ask is: “How long does Ativan last?” Knowing how long it takes to execute its mechanism of action, effect, and possible side effects makes it easier to take the drug more safely and effectively. This article has explored Ativan’s mechanism of action, duration in the body, influencing factors, and safety precautions.
Table of Contents
What is Ativan and how does it work?
Ativan is a central nervous system depressant as well. The primary action is to enhance the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA, which calms the brain and decreases nerve impulses. The effect of these nerves due to Ativan is such that a sedative reaction benefits most patients with anxiety, insomnia, and even seizures.
Doctors typically prescribe Ativan in these conditions:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
- Panic Attacks
- Short-term stress and anxiety management
- Insomnia with anxiety
- Anticonvulsant in the treatment of epilepsy
- Premedication for medical procedures
Because it is rapid onset, it is particularly useful in acute situations, such as seizure arrest or preoperative agitation.
How Long Does Ativan Last?
The time course of Ativan’s effects depends on several factors, but generally:
- Onset of Action: 20 to 30 minutes after ingestion
- Peak Effects: 1 to 2 hours
- Duration of Effects: Most people 6 to 8 hours
- Half-life: 10 to 20 hours
Traces of the medication will persist longer even if major effects from Ativan would be felt only within 6-8 hours. It would be about 10-20 hours in the body for half the amount of the drug eliminated due to the said half-life; however, it may take a number of days before it fully eliminates in a slow metabolism or for chronic users of the said drug.
Factors that influence the duration of time that Ativan remains in the body?
The duration at which Ativan works varies. This is for different people due to various influencing factors. Factors that influence it include:
- Dose: Efficacy normally increases with dosage. A commonly prescribed dose might be between 0.5 mg and 2 mg but more is applied in hospitals when needed.
- Age: Old aged persons metabolize benzodiazepine more slowly. Thus, Ativan can take longer in this age group. This would increase the risk of drowsiness and falls.
- Metabolism: High metabolizers metabolize Ativan more rapidly and therefore, the effect occurs for a relatively shorter time. Compared with that, those who have slow metabolism experience longer sedation periods.
- Liver Function: As the liver is involved in the metabolism of Ativan, a patient with decreased functions of the liver would metabolize the drug slowly, hence resulting in protracted effect.
- Frequency It Is taken: When this medication is frequently taken, the body becomes tolerant of the drug Ativan; its effects shorten that which existed previously. Addiction tends to set in when this is done over time.
- Route: Ativan comes in oral tablets, injectable forms, and sublingual options. The intravenous administration is the fastest but wears off the soonest. Oral tablets take longer to be absorbed into the body but last longer.
How long does Ativan remain in the body?
Even when the effects of Ativan are no longer there, it may still be detectable in other bodily fluids. Detection times depend on the type of test:
- Blood Test: Detectable up to 3 days
- Urinary Test: Detectable up to 6 days
- Salivary Test: Detectable up to 8 hours
- Hair Test: Shows traces up to 30 days
If you are taking a drug test, Ativan will still be active in your body, even when you are no longer feeling the drug’s effects.
Possible side effects of Ativan
Ativan is highly potent and may cause side effects, especially if it is used for a long time. Some of the common side effects include the following:
- Drowsiness and lethargy
- Dizziness or dizziness
- Confusion and memory loss
- Nausea and headaches
- Coordination loss
Long-term risks
If used for a long time, it leads to dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and other effects such as:
- Irritability and mood swings
- Sleeplessness and restlessness
- Seizure fits (severe cases of withdrawal)
- Elevated anxiety level (rebound effect)
Thus, it is commonly used for a short duration of time.
Safe use and caution
How to use Ativan safely?
- No alcohol or other depressants: It is likely to induce sedation that will cause respiratory depression with alcohol or opioids.
- Do not drive or operate heavy machinery: As Ativan is likely to cause drowsiness, avoid driving or using heavy machinery.
- Stick to your doctor’s prescription: Take Ativan only on prescription by your doctor. Do not take an increased dose without asking your doctor.
- Do not stop abruptly: Ativan should not be discontinued abruptly as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms. You should discuss with your doctor the tapering schedule if you want to stop taking it.
Conclusion
Ativan is a very strong medication used for the treatment of anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. Knowing how long Ativan lasts is very important in order to use it safely and effectively. Its effects usually last for 6 to 8 hours, but traces of the drug stay in the body for much longer, depending on individual factors.
However, responsible use of Ativan will help prevent dependence and side effects. Any adjustment in dose or cessation of the drug will have to be obtained from a healthcare provider.
If you still have any questions about how long Ativan lasts or what its effects are, see your doctor.