Combining Weed and Ativan: Is It Safe?
As both Ativan and weed (cannabis) are central nervous system depressants, it is not advised to combine the two before consulting a medical marijuana doctor online.
Combining the two drugs may result in adverse drug reactions such as extreme tiredness, disorientation, impaired motor function, or trouble focusing. The way cannabis users respond to Ativan can vary depending on their unique tolerance to the drug, the dosage, and their metabolism.
Even though long-term studies on the effects of cannabis use and Ativan are lacking, experts generally advise against taking both at the same time and avoiding tasks requiring coordinated motor skills or mental alertness. Rarely, people who take both drugs together may have shallow or sluggish breathing.
What Is Ativan?
An anti-anxiety benzodiazepine called ativan, sometimes referred to as lorazepam, is frequently used to treat the symptoms of epilepsy, insomnia, and anxiety disorders. Additionally, it is occasionally recommended for off-label conditions like alcohol use disorder. Ativan is a strong, long-acting prescription drug. The medication usually starts to take effect in 20 to 30 minutes, and its full sedative effects take up to 8 hours to wear off.
Given that Ativan has the potential to become addictive, doctors typically only prescribe it for brief periods of time, like four weeks. Ativan users may experience side effects like muscle weakness, difficulty controlling movement or coordination, and daytime drowsiness.
In the United States, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) lists ativan as one of the top five benzodiazepines that are prescribed. Roughly 18.4 million prescriptions for the medication were submitted in 2019.
How It Works
Prescription drugs classified as benzodiazepines include Ativan. Benzodiazepines produce feelings of drowsiness, sedation, and relaxation because they are central nervous system (CNS) depressants, which calm the overexcited nervous system.
Gamma-aminobutyric acid receptors (GABA) in the brain are the basis for ativan’s action. GABA receptors are involved in the control of anxiety, relaxation, and sleep. Ativan temporarily alters the function of these receptors, slowing down the central nervous system (CNS). The person experiences calmness, relaxation, and seclusion as a result. Its quick-acting properties make it a stopgap measure against the start of severe anxiety episodes.
Pros and Cons of Combining Cannabis and Ativan
Ativan and marijuana both depress the central nervous system, so using them together usually has an additive effect. This implies that using cannabis and Ativan together may result in a pharmacological interaction that intensifies drowsiness, disorientation, and dizziness.
THC-containing cannabis products might behave differently from THC-free cannabis products. For instance, compared to products with higher THC concentrations, CBD products with 0.3% or less THC are less likely to have negative effects. When combining Ativan with any cannabis product, caution should be used. In order to lower the risk of an adverse reaction and to taper benzodiazepine use when advised, it is advisable to see a doctor before using both at the same time, as CBD can desensitize liver enzymes that metabolize medications like Ativan and other benzodiazepines.
Pros
No conclusive research has been done on the possible advantages of combining Ativan with marijuana, and no benefits have been identified. Observational studies do report a decrease in benzodiazepine use among patients who receive medical cannabis recommendations, though.
Cons
Combining Ativan with marijuana carries a number of risks. Because the likelihood of negative effects can be influenced by factors like dosage, metabolism, and personal tolerance, the effects may differ from person to person. Dizziness, excessive sleepiness, poor motor function, and a lack of coordination are common side effects. Since these symptoms can develop quickly, experts advise staying away from activities like driving that call for coordination, motor skills, or concentration.
Depression of the respiratory system is an additional, less frequent danger of combining Ativan and marijuana. Combining these drugs can depress the respiratory system, resulting in sluggish or shallow breathing, in the same way that it can slow down the activity of the central nervous system. People with weaker health may be more susceptible to this risk.
There aren’t any thorough studies outlining the immediate or long-term effects of combining marijuana and ativan just yet. Our knowledge is largely derived from observational data. Therefore, it’s a good idea to exercise caution when combining these two substances until more thorough research has been conducted.
How to Safely Use Both Ativan and Marijuana
Experts generally advise against combining cannabis and ativans if at all possible. However, if you must take Ativan and medical marijuana at the same time, it’s best to start with small doses, especially when you’re first starting treatment. Keep an eye on how the combination of the drugs affects your body, and then consult a physician about increasing the dosage or reducing it if needed. The doctor will offer you an online medical card that will give you legal access to marijuana in your state if he determines that combining marijuana and ativan is appropriate in your situation.
Do not engage in activities that require alertness, focus, or coordination until you are comfortable with the combined effects of both substances. You might need to lower your dosage if severe or persistent side effects interfere with your daily activities. Additionally, be mindful of your breathing. As soon as you notice that your breathing is becoming shallower or slower, get medical help.
The Ending Words!
Speak with a healthcare professional if you must take Ativan in addition to medicinal cannabis. In certain people, the combination of marijuana use and Ativan may have negative effects. It’s critical to understand the possible hazards. Keep an eye on how your body reacts to the ativan and marijuana combination, and get help from a doctor if you experience any side effects that interfere with your regular activities.
