Ativan, the brand name for Lorazepam, is one of the 5 most prescribed benzodiazepines, which are a class of central nervous system depressant drugs.  It was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 1977 to treat a variety of disorders including anxiety attacks, panic disorder, and insomnia, pre-surgical and surgical anesthesia.

The medication also has numerous off-label uses including, but not limited to, delirium, alcohol withdrawal, panic disorder, and to treat agitated or unruly patients. Due to its’ fast onset (typically 1-3 minutes), Ativan is a popular sedative in the inpatient setting when administered intravenously. When taken as prescribed by a physician, Ativan comes in tablet form, which is the most common method of use.

Benzos enhance the activity of the GABA neurotransmitter, an inhibitory transmitter, which in turn reduces the excitatory signaling brain activity that induces stress and anxiety. There is normally a natural balance between inhibitory and excitatory brain signals, however, for people with certain conditions, such as chronic anxiety and seizures, this balance can be far off.

The general effect of Ativan on the neurotransmitter causes a feeling of relaxation and well-being. Benzodiazepines, including Ativan, are Schedule IV drugs in the US Controlled Substances Act, meaning that while it has medicinal purposes, it can also become physically and psychologically addictive.

So, Can I Snort Ativan?

No, you should not snort Ativan (lorazepam).

Why?

1. Poor Absorption – Ativan is not designed for intranasal use; most of the drug will not be effectively absorbed through the nasal membranes.
2. Irritation & Damage – Snorting pills can cause burning, inflammation, and damage to the nasal passages and sinuses.
3. Inactive Fillers & Binders – Tablets contain fillers (e.g., lactose, magnesium stearate) that do not dissolve well and can clog nasal passages or enter the lungs, causing serious respiratory issues.
4. No Increased High – Unlike some drugs, Ativan does not have a faster onset when snorted; sublingual (under the tongue) or oral use is more effective.
5. Risk of Overdose – Misusing benzodiazepines increases the risk of respiratory depression, blackouts, and overdose, especially if combined with alcohol or opioids.

Safer Alternatives

• If you need faster effects, Ativan can be dissolved under the tongue (sublingual use) for a quicker onset than swallowing.
• Always take medications as prescribed by a doctor.

Warning: Snorting Ativan does not enhance effects but increases risks of serious health complications. If struggling with benzodiazepine misuse, consider speaking to a medical professional.

Snorting Ativan

One of the ways that Ativan is abused is by snorting it. The pill is crushed into a powder and ingested nasally. Once inhaled, Ativan is absorbed rapidly and a rush of GABA initiates the euphoric “high”. When snorted, Ativan has an expedited transit to the nervous system and receptors in the brain. This makes for high abuse and addiction potential. Regular intranasal use can cause increased tolerance and physical dependence. The withdrawal symptoms once dependence is achieved are extremely unpleasant.

The dangers of abusing Ativan must not be downplayed.  According to drugabuse.gov:

A 2010 study found that nearly 30% of deaths caused by pharmaceutical drugs were due to the overuse or overdose of benzodiazepines like Ativan. Furthermore, 75% of overdose deaths caused by benzodiazepines are unintentional. When Ativan is snorted, for instance, it may be easier to misgauge or underestimate the effects of the drug, prompting higher-than-recommended dosing, which can then lead to lethal consequences.

There are many side effects to taking Ativan, including nausea, dry mouth, reduced or increased appetite, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, restlessness, blurry vision.  The more serious side effects, which occur more frequently when the drug is abused, include difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, shuffling walk, inability to walk in a straight line, or have a normal gait, tremors, irregular heartbeat. In the case of overdose, the central nervous system can be shut down and the user might have pale bluish skin and lips, labored breathing, slurred speech, impaired motor skills, oversedation, and respiratory depression. During an overdose, the respiratory system slows dramatically, the brain and other organs are deprived of oxygen, and the result could be coma or even death.

This is more of a danger when snorting the drug than taking it in pill form as it is more difficult to gauge the amount and rate at which it is entering the system, so the user can take too much unintentionally. A person experiencing an Ativan overdose must be treated immediately, otherwise, they run the risk of brain and nervous system damage. Their respiratory and cardiovascular systems must be stabilized and then they are orally treated with charcoal, binding to the toxic substances and drugs, removing them from the bodily tissues. A person who has overdosed on Ativan must be monitored until their bodily functions return to a normal state.

Ativan Addiction Signs and Symptoms

Ativan, a prescription medication for anxiety disorders, can lead to dependency and substance use disorder. Even short-term use carries health risks, and misuse, like snorting Ativan, is especially dangerous, damaging the septum and nasal cavities, causing nosebleeds, loss of smell, and swallowing difficulties. Snorting also increases the risk of overdose and other health complications.

Signs of Ativan addiction include confusion, sweating, slurred speech, “doctor shopping,” breathing difficulties, drowsiness, neglecting responsibilities, lying, stealing, mood swings, irrational behavior, financial problems, and defensiveness. Cravings are also common.

Ativan withdrawal can be life-threatening. Quitting without professional help is strongly discouraged. Acute withdrawal can involve increased anxiety, nausea, irritability, mood swings, and insomnia, lasting 3-5 weeks. Tapering off Ativan under a healthcare provider’s guidance is crucial, as abruptly stopping, especially after prolonged use or high doses, can be dangerous.

Professional help, such as intensive outpatient programs, is essential to address the physical and psychological aspects of Ativan dependency. CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) can help manage cravings. If you or someone you know is struggling with Ativan addiction or substance abuse, get help. A healthcare provider can assess the situation and recommend treatment. Ativan affects the GABA neurotransmitter, and understanding this is important for effective treatment.

We are Here to Help with Ativan Abuse

At Garden State Treatment Center, men and women struggling with Ativan addiction can safely begin long-term recovery. Following medical detox, individuals often experience withdrawal symptoms like mood swings, panic attacks, depression, confusion, and suicidal thoughts. Our experienced therapists and staff help clients address the lasting effects of Ativan and the underlying issues driving their addiction, teaching them to manage these challenges without substance use.

We offer various addiction treatment programs, including individual, group, family, and cognitive behavioral therapy, as well as relapse prevention. Our partial care rehab program addresses co-occurring disorders like anxiety, trauma, and depression. Our evidence-based treatment options are tailored to each individual’s needs. Our detox program provides safe and supportive detoxification, and our rehab centers offer a healing environment.

If you or a loved one is struggling with Ativan or other substance addiction, call our admissions counselors 24/7. We’re ready to help you find a path to a healthy, sober life.

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Published on: 2020-04-27
Updated on: 2025-02-19