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Anxiety disorders are a common mental health issue, and Ativan (lorazepam) is a medication commonly used to treat them. Tolerance to Ativan can develop over time, meaning that higher doses may be required to achieve the same effect. However, it is not necessarily true that higher Ativan dosing due to tolerance worsens anxiety.
Tolerance occurs when the body becomes accustomed to a medication's effects, requiring higher doses to achieve the same result. This is a common occurrence with benzodiazepines like Ativan, which work by enhancing the effect of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain [1].
While increasing the dose of Ativan due to tolerance may be necessary to maintain its anxiety-reducing effects, it is important to note that higher doses also carry an increased risk of side effects [2]. These can include drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, and coordination problems. In addition, long-term use of benzodiazepines like Ativan can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation [3].
It is crucial to follow the dosage prescribed by a healthcare provider and to discuss any concerns about tolerance or anxiety symptoms with them. They may recommend alternative treatments or strategies to manage anxiety, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or lifestyle changes [4].
In summary, while higher Ativan dosing due to tolerance may be necessary to maintain its anxiety-reducing effects, it is not necessarily true that it worsens anxiety. However, higher doses do carry an increased risk of side effects, and it is essential to follow the prescribed dosage and consult with a healthcare provider about any concerns.
Sources:
1. "Lorazepam." MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 Feb. 2022, medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682035.html.
2. "Lorazepam: MedlinePlus Drug Information." National Library of Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 Feb. 2022, medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682035.html#why.
3. "Benzodiazepines and Opioids." World Health Organization, World Health Organization, 2020, www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/benzodiazepines-and-opioids.
4. "Anxiety Disorders." National Institute of Mental Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders/index.shtml.
5. "Lorazepam (Ativan) Dosage." DrugPatentWatch, 2022, www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/lorazepam.