Ativan (Lorazepam) Street Names

Ativan (the brand name for lorazepam) is a benzodiazepine prescription drug sometimes referred to on the street as a “benzo.” This medication is used to help treat those suffering from anxiety disorder, alcohol withdrawal, and insomnia.

Ativan is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant with a wide-range of side effects such as sedation and feelings of euphoria. It is considered to be a Schedule IV controlled substance with a high potential for abuse and physical dependence, according to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

Common Street Names Of Ativan

Common street names of Ativan can include:

• tranks
• sleeping pills
• downers
• silence
• candy
• control

Other benzodiazepines like Ativan include:

• alprazolam (Xanax)
• diazepam (Valium)
• clonazepam (Klonopin)
• triazolam (Halcion)
• temazepam (Restoril)
• chlordiazepoxide (Librium)

Some of the common street names for other benzodiazepines include:

• benzos
• nerve pills
• chill pills
• footballs
• sleeping pills
• k-pin

Side Effects Of Ativan Abuse

Those who participate in Ativan abuse may experience various side effects. Some of the more common side effects of Ativan can include:

• sedation
• nausea
• dizziness
• constipation
• dry mouth
• drowsiness

Drug Interactions

Ativan is a CNS depressant that, when combined with other substances, can create life-threatening side effects. When combined with other CNS depressants, serious breathing problems and respiratory issues may arise.

To avoid drug interactions, do not combined Ativan with:

• hallucinogens such as LSD (acid, window panes, blotter, tabs, ghb) and MDMA (molly, ecstasy)
• Stimulant amphetamine medications used for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) such as Adderall
• barbiturates
• opioid painkillers such as OxyContin (oxycodone, oxy), hydrocodone (hydro), vicodin (vike), and Percocet (percs)
• methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin)
• alcohol
• codeine
• fentanyl (dance fever)
• illicit drugs such as heroin 

In addition to the side effects which can occur, those who abuse Ativan or take the drug in large doses may experience life-threatening health concerns.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Stopping your dose of Ativan “cold turkey” can result in a person experiencing Ativan withdrawal. Symptoms of Ativan withdrawal can include:

• tremors
• sweating
• sleeping problems
• mental health issues such as anxiety or depression
• irritability
• rapid heart rate

Ativan Overdose

Those who take large quantities of Ativan may experience an overdose. Signs of an Ativan overdose may include:

• low blood pressure
• seizures
• slow reflexes
• loss of consciousness
• respiratory depression
• yellowing of the skin
• fever
• confusion
• death

Seek urgent medical attention right away if you believe an overdose has taken place.

Ativan Addiction Treatment

If you or a loved one are struggling with Ativan abuse, consider accessing a substance abuse treatment center. At Ohio Recovery Center, we offer:

• inpatient care
• medical detox
• evidence-based practices like behavioral therapy
• aftercare resources

To speak with one of our healthcare professionals and learn how we can help, please contact us today.