Tramadol and Ativan are both central nervous system depressants that cause their own set of side effects.
Our drug rehab center in Texas knows that a lot of people experiment with mixing drugs to enhance their side effects while others may mix drugs like tramadol and Ativan accidentally. Unfortunately, the effects of taking tramadol and Ativan are highly dangerous. Anyone who mixes these two drugs risks their health.
What Is Tramadol?
Tramadol is a synthetic opioid analgesic that was first developed in the 1970s. The pharmaceutical company that created tramadol, Grunenthal GmbH, originally advertised it as a safer alternative to other opioids like hydrocodone and oxycodone because it has a lower potential for abuse and addiction. Tramadol was considered a safe option for treating pain in opioid addicts and individuals recovering from a substance abuse disorder. As an opioid analgesic, it works by activating the release of a neurotransmitter called dopamine, among others, in the brain. The increase in dopamine levels causes a feeling of euphoria in addition to pain relief, symptoms that usually hook users. Unfortunately, tramadol was discovered to be just as addictive as other opioids.
Although tramadol is a prescription drug, this doesn’t mean it’s not dangerous. In fact, the opioid epidemic is clear evidence of the dangers that come with prescription drug abuse and misuse. Those who have fallen into tramadol addiction can get help with residential treatment offered at Banyan Treatment Centers Texas.
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What Is Ativan?
Ativan is the brand name for lorazepam, a benzodiazepine that’s commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders. When the benzodiazepines like Ativan were discovered to be effective in treating anxiety disorders, prescriptions were pumped out at rapid rates in the 1970s; however, not everyone who did receive a prescription for Ativan needed such a drug for their ailments. Eventually, the power of this drug was discovered and the rate of prescription has been better controlled.
Ativan works by slowing down the central nervous system and increasing the levels of a neurotransmitter called GABA in the brain. This slows down neuron communication and activity, which could benefit someone with an anxiety disorder. Ativan is not meant for long-term use because it’s such a powerful medication. Long-term Ativan use, misuse, or abuse, can result in addiction and even worsen the symptoms it's meant to treat. Most people who become addicted to benzodiazepines like lorazepam often require addiction treatment. At Banyan Texas, we offer a variety of addiction services that involve treatment for prescription drug addictions.
Can You Take Ativan With Tramadol?
You should not take Ativan (lorazepam) with tramadol, especially if you’re taking either without a prescription, which is also dangerous. Because both drugs are central nervous system depressants, combining the two can amplify their side effects.
The most common effects of tramadol and Ativan interaction include:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Difficulties concentrating
- Impaired judgment
- Slow reaction speed and motor movement
- Lack of motor coordination
- Respiratory depression or distress
- Coma
The effects of taking tramadol and Ativan also include addiction and overdose. Because tramadol is an opioid and lorazepam (Ativan) is a benzodiazepine, the combination can quickly produce tolerance in the user. The more tolerant a person becomes to these drugs, the more likely they are to develop an addiction. All central nervous system depressants are cross-tolerant with each other, meaning that developing a tolerance likely means you can develop a tolerance for another. When these medications are taken without a prescription or are not taken as directed by a doctor, the combination can also lead to overdose. Overdose can lead to loss of consciousness, respiratory failure, heart failure, and death.
Admitting your addiction can be tough, but it’s worth it. If you or someone you know is addicted to prescription drugs or experimenting with mixing drugs like tramadol and lorazepam, call our team today at 888-280-4763 for more information about our medical detox in Texas.
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