Managing Ambien Withdrawal Symptoms
What Is Ambien? Ambien is a brand name for a medication known as zolpidem. This medication calms the central nervous system and works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain to help treat insomnia. However, it may also be prescribed to treat anxiety and some other conditions in adults. Not taking the substance as prescribed may cause Ambien withdrawal symptoms when attempting to detox. Ambien belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines, which have a high potential for dependency and addiction. The likelihood of this increases with prolonged use. How Is Ambien Taken? Ambien is usually taken orally and is typically prescribed for short-term use, usually for 7-10 days. It is used for short periods to prevent dependence. This means that if you were prescribed zolpidem and you used it for long enough, you may need more of it to achieve the same effects. Also, if you were to stop taking the medication abruptly, you would likely experience Ambien withdrawal symptoms.1 Ambien Withdrawal Symptoms Ambien withdrawal symptoms may be mild, moderate, or severe. It is important to follow the dosage instructions carefully, as taking more than prescribed can increase the risk of dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. Ambien is a controlled substance and can be habit-forming, which is why it should only be used as directed by a healthcare provider. If you or a loved one is experiencing Ambien withdrawal symptoms, you should read on to learn how to get help. How Does Ambien Affect the Body? Ambien belongs to a class of sedative-hypnotics called benzodiazepines, or “benzos” for short. Simply put, these medications affect your brain and body by calming it down to induce sleep. The mechanism of action of Ambien involves its interaction with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps to regulate brain activity and reduce anxiety and tension. When GABA binds to its receptors, it can decrease the activity of neurons and induce feelings of relaxation and sleepiness. How Is Ambien Prescribed? Due to its short half-life, Ambien is rapidly metabolized and eliminated from the body. Consequently, it is preferred for use in short-term treatment for insomnia. When used for longer periods at higher doses, the risk of dependence and Ambien withdrawal symptoms increases. This is why it should only be used according to the prescription. Then, it should be stopped accordingly. If side effects still continue, your doctor may choose to give you another prescription. Dependence and Ambien Withdrawal Symptoms Dependence is a major concern when using medications like Ambien. If an individual uses them for too long, their body can get too familiar with the medication. At this point, individuals may develop a dependency on the substance. It may also cause someone to experience Ambien withdrawal symptoms. These will be detailed below. What Are Ambien Withdrawal Symptoms? Ambien withdrawal symptoms can occur within a few days to a few weeks or months after stopping Ambien. Symptoms may include:4 Rebound Insomnia: Your insomnia may become worse than it initially was when you stop Ambien after prolonged use. Anxiety and agitation: Ambien withdrawal symptoms also include anxiety and agitation. Irritability: You may become more sensitive to sound, light, and other aspects of your environment. Muscle cramps: You may experience muscle pain and stiffness after stopping Ambien. Tremors and shaking: Some people may experience tremors or shaking during Ambien withdrawal. This symptom can be seen in various parts of the body, but mostly in the hands. Sweating and chills: This is a common withdrawal symptom associated with medications that affect the brain. Nausea and vomiting: Gastrointestinal disturbances also feature among the Ambien withdrawal symptoms. Headaches: People have reported mild to severe headaches after stopping Ambien. It’s best not to mix painkillers and Ambien if you are experiencing headaches, however. Seizures: In rare cases, Ambien withdrawal can cause seizures, especially if the drug has been used for an extended period at high doses. How to Reduce Ambien Withdrawal Symptoms It’s important to seek professional help when discontinuing Ambien use to minimize the risk of Ambien withdrawal symptoms and ensure a safe and comfortable transition off the medication. Also, only use Ambien only as directed by a healthcare provider. You should avoid taking higher doses than prescribed, and not take the medication for longer than recommended. The severity and duration of Ambien withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on several factors, such as the duration and dosage of use, individual factors, and other medications or substances used. What Are the Health Risks of Ambien Use? Caution is necessary when dealing with medications that alter brain or nervous system function. Misuse or prolonged use of Ambien poses potential health risks, including Ambien withdrawal symptoms. Some other risks may include: Dependence and Addiction This is a major reason for short-term use of Ambien, since it belongs to a class of medications that are known for their potential to be habit-forming. It is a controlled substance that can only legally be obtained with a prescription. Withdrawal Symptoms If you stop this medication after prolonged use, you may experience Ambien withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms range from mild to severe and can affect your life adversely. Some of these symptoms include seizures, rebound insomnia, and psychosis. Cognitive Impairment Ambien affects the central nervous system, which is necessary for proper functioning. It is supposed to help you relax and sleep. However, it can present a problem if it sedates you when you need to be alert. Prolonged use can impair memory, attention, coordination, and other cognitive abilities.3 Behavioral Changes Since Ambien affects your brain, it may influence your behavior in ways that you do not expect. Some people can have issues focusing or making correct judgments. Others may also experience hallucinations or some other extreme behavioral changes. Respiratory Depression This is a side effect of Ambien’s calming nature. It can become a problem where one’s respiratory capacity is compromised. For example, caution is needed where there is a pre-existing respiratory condition. Ambien should not be co-administered with other drugs that depress