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