Zolpidem, also know by the brand name Ambien, is a prescription drug used to treat insomnia. It is intended for short-term use only; however, some people can develop a physical dependence on Ambien in just two weeks. When this happens, many people will require more of the drug to feel the same effects. This dependence can then become an addiction or substance use disorder.
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Ambien Detox
Detox
Ambien Detox
IMS Health reports that approximately 38 million prescriptions for Ambien were written between 2006 and 2011. In 2019, The National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported more than 580,000 people (18 and older) in the United States are currently misusing sedatives like Ambien.
Ambien Withdrawal Signs & Symptoms
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Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe and include insomnia and restlessness. Factors such as the duration of Ambien use and dosage can impact withdrawal symptoms. People who inject or snort the pills may experience heightened withdrawal symptoms. Ambien users may also experience insomnia and restlessness. The symptoms can be difficult and may even interfere with day to day activities.
Physical Withdrawal Symptoms of Ambien:
- Hand tremors
- Headache
- Racing Pulse
- Restlessness
- Hyperventilation
- Aches/pains
- Nausea/vomiting
- Sweating
- Hypertension
- Difficulty with speech
Psychological Withdrawal Symptoms of Ambien:
- Panic attacks
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Insomnia
- Relationship problems
Timeline for Ambien Withdrawal
Ambien withdrawal symptoms typically disappear or lessen between 1-2 weeks. Individuals will experience acute withdrawal symptoms within 3-5 days after stopping Ambien use. However, psychological withdrawal symptoms can occur for up to two weeks or longer. While an average of 1-2 weeks to withdraw is pretty typical for most Ambien users, each person may have a unique experience.
The factors that determine the length of time for Ambien withdrawal include:
- The duration of using Ambien
- The dosage taken
- If the Ambien was an extended-release version (will cause more severe symptoms)
- If Ambien was combined with other drugs
- If the individual has any co-occurring conditions
What are some symptom remedies and tips for Ambien withdrawal?
Suddenly stopping Ambien will produce more severe withdrawal symptoms. Doctors recommend slowly reducing the dosage of Ambien, or tapering, which can take several months. If this is how you choose to stop using the drug, it’s essential to maintain constant contact with a medical professional. Your doctor will monitor the amount of Ambien you are taking and prescribe other medications to help with any unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.
A doctor can switch a patient’s prescription to an alternate medication during the tapering process. Your doctor may then taper that dosage gradually until you have safely withdrawn from Ambien.
There are many in- and outpatient treatment programs that can help you create a treatment plan designed for you. Since taking a high dose of Ambien over a longer period, it increases the likelihood of physical dependence, which is why a medically supervised detox is recommended. The severity of Ambien withdrawal symptoms can easily be treated by a detox and rehab program.
Ambien Detox Process
The first step in detoxing for an Ambien addiction is usually a medically-assisted detox program. Patients will stay in a medical setting for this first phase of the recovery process. They will then be given care for any cravings and withdrawal symptoms they may experience during that time. Doctors will also be able to prescribe medications for insomnia that are less dangerous than Ambien in addition to treatments for anxiety, which is exacerbated by Ambien withdrawal.
Once an individual is medically cleared, they can begin treatment in an in- or outpatient recovery treatment facility. The length of time in treatment varies depending upon the individual’s own needs and medical history. Whether in- or outpatient, individuals will have access to group therapy and counseling, which are important parts of the addiction recovery process.
Why is detox necessary?
Detox is vital because it is the body’s way of eliminating the drugs from its system. Individuals are monitored for adverse reactions to the detox process and will receive care for those reactions. The body will restore its balance, and it’s important to know that the liver plays a vital role in physical detoxification. It is not recommended to begin treatment without safely stopping the misuse of any drug, including Ambien.
Most detox processes can be supervised by a healthcare professional. Being monitored ensures that an individual is physically safe and ensures someone doesn’t return to using to cope with withdrawal symptoms. The good news is that once the body has finally rid itself of the drug, individuals are ready for treatment, which is the next step in the lifelong recovery process.
Do you or a loved one suffer from an Ambien addiction? Contact us at (844) 533-0356 to learn more about your detox options.
Medical Disclaimer: Dignity Healing uses fact-based content about recovery treatment, addiction medicine, and behavioral health conditions in order to improve the quality of life for those struggling with drug and alcohol addiction or mental health disorders. While the information provided is researched and reviewed by licensed medical professionals, it is not intended to replace professional medical guidance, diagnosis, care, or treatment. This information should not be used as a substitute for advice from a qualified healthcare provider and/or your physician.