What impact does Lorazepam withdrawal have on bipolar disorder?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I have been taking 1.5 mg of Ativan for five years. I have bipolar 1, and it is the only medication that helps me sleep. They have tried everything on me. I would like to stop taking it, but I am very afraid of the insomnia and mania that might follow. I have also heard that the withdrawal is awful! I am wondering if I can work on lowering my dose. I would be working with my doctor, who is weighing the risks and benefits. I am on Lamotrigine and 1.25 to 1.5 mg of Ativan. I worry about dementia, and she is concerned about taking me off it. I just wanted a different opinion.
Please guide.
Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern.
As you have bipolar disorder (Mental illness with alternating episodes of mania and depression, affecting mood and energy levels), you can gradually quit Ativan (Lorazepam, an anti-anxiety drug). At a dose of 1.25 to 1.5 mg, there should not be any major memory problems. You can gradually reduce the dosage while maintaining good sleep hygiene. You can also consider gradually shifting to melatonin.
The main thing is to maintain good sleep hygiene, which includes daily exercise, avoiding smoking and drinking, avoiding tea and coffee, and taking hot milk. Do not worry about dementia at this dose. You can start another mood stabilizer like Olanzapine or Divalproate.
I hope this information helps you, and please reach out if you have any doubts.
Thank you.
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