Ambien, or Zolpidem, is a prescription drug used to treat short-term insomnia, as well as some brain disorders. The medication is not a benzodiazepine like Xanax or Valium, but many of its effects are similar; it is available under a number of names, and there are two basic versions of the medicine: a regular and a controlled release (CR) version. While the medication can be useful for many suffering from insomnia and some other disorders, Ambien has a potential for addiction and abuse, particularly in higher doses, at which point the drug acts more like a benzodiazepine. For this reason, it is not recommended for those addicted to the drug to stop taking it all at once; it is much safer to quit taking Ambien under a doctor’s supervision.
What Are Symptoms of Ambien Withdrawal?
The most severe withdrawal symptoms from quitting Ambien occur typically when the addict tries to stop taking the medication all at once. While tapering dosages does not eliminate the possibility of withdrawal symptoms, the symptoms are usually milder. Quitting all at once can result in serious symptoms such as seizures—which is why it is important to discontinue Ambien under a doctor’s supervision, or in a treatment facility. Other severe symptoms of Ambien withdrawal can include memory loss. While every person’s experience is different, the most common symptoms of Ambien withdrawal are:
- abdominal cramps
- anxiety
- apprehension
- dysphoria
- exacerbated insomnia
- fear
- mood changes
- nausea
- nightmares
- panic attacks
- shaking
- vomiting
Because of the way that Ambien acts in the brain, many individuals experience anxiety-related symptoms; the sedative and tranquilizing effects of the drug, once removed from the body, result in a rebound effect as the brain attempts to re-stabilize its neurotransmitters. Those who have taken Ambien for a long time, or at high dosages—or both—are more likely to experience severe versions of the withdrawal symptoms. Acute withdrawal generally peaks after a few days, subsiding within weeks; however, as with many addictions, post-acute withdrawal syndrome can last for much longer.
How is Ambien Withdrawal Treated?
If you are considering quitting Ambien, it’s a good idea to work with a doctor, or an addiction treatment center and detox facility, in order to avoid the worst possibilities of withdrawal as well as to ensure your success. Most physicians recommend stepping down your dosage of Ambien gradually, so as to avoid serious symptoms such as seizures or memory loss. If you decide to enter a treatment facility, they may apply benzodiazepines during the acute stage—in tapering dosage—to get through the worst part of the withdrawal symptoms without causing another addiction. There are also several over-the-counter medications that can support recovering addicts during the difficult times. NSAIDs such as Ibuprofen, Tylenol, or Acetaminophen can help treat aches and pains, and some doctors have found that certain herbal teas also provide anxiety-reducing benefits for addicts experiencing those withdrawal symptoms.
Ultimately, while you can taper your medication dosage on your own, under a doctor’s orders, the safest way to detox and quit Ambien is through a supportive environment, where there is no way to act on the temptation to take a higher dosage as you’re tapering down. Most treatment centers also offer lasting addiction treatment programs, which can help you to resist the impulse to start taking the medication again. Ultimately, the decision of how to handle your addiction treatment is up to you—but it is important to consult with a doctor and find out what methods are available.