Ambien (Zolpidem) Detox, Treatment, & Rehab
Overview
Ambien, the brand name for the generic medication Zolpidem, is a prescription medication used to help treat insomnia and other sleep related issues. Ambien belongs to the drug classification group known as sedatives, or hypnotics. Approximately 4.9 million individuals engaged in the misuse of sedatives in 2021. Compared to other sleep medications, Ambien is less habit-forming, though physical and psychological dependence can still occur over time.
In the United States, approximately 2.2 million individuals met the diagnostic criteria and were diagnosed with sedative use disorder due to uncontrolled Ambien and other sedative use. Due to its addictive properties, it is not recommended to engage in Ambien use for more than 4 or 5 weeks without the approval of a doctor.
Developing Addiction to Prescription Ambien Medication
Ambien is a prescription sedative that slows down the brain and central nervous system by flooding the brain with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). When the brain is slowed down, an individual may become more relaxed, drowsy, or calm.
Common side effects associated with Ambien use include: drowsiness during the day, dizziness, weakness, lightheadedness, loss of coordination, stuffy nose, dry mouth, nose and/or throat irritation.
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Ambien has a high-risk of misuse due to how it interacts with the brain. Its ability to temporarily relax the body and produce sedative effects makes it a substance that one may develop a tolerance for. Developing a tolerance for a substance encourages an individual to repeatedly engage in it, perpetuating the cycle of addiction.
How Long Does It Take To Develop Ambien Dependence?
There is no exact length of time that determines how long it takes to become addicted to Ambien. Ambien is typically prescribed for short-term treatment, or approximately 1 to 2 weeks. Taking Ambien longer than prescribed increases one’s risk of developing an addiction.
Ambien Addiction Signs & Symptoms
Signs and symptoms associated with Ambien addiction include:
– Unsuccessful attempts of cutting back or stopping Ambien use
– Experiencing relational, occupational, or personal consequences directly related to Ambien use
– Engaging in drug-seeking behavior, such as attempting to receive more than one prescription for Ambien at a time
– Experiencing chronic tiredness and fatigue
– Changes in sleep patterns or sleep quality
– Experiencing a lack of motivation to fulfill personal responsibilities and obligations
– Lacking in personal hygiene
– Experiencing mood swings
– Developing a tolerance for Ambien
– Experiencing physical and psychological symptoms of withdrawal
Ambien Addiction Detox & Rehab Process
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It is recommended that if an individual is seeking addiction treatment, they begin with the detox process. Detox is the process of substances being removed from the body. Once an individual stops using a substance and begins detox, they may experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. This is why attending an Ambien rehab program is imperative for recovery.
Can You Detox From Ambien Abuse on Your Own?
It is recommended that an individual detoxes from a substance at a treatment facility that provides medical detox. If left untreated, withdrawal symptoms associated with Ambien use can be severe.
Ambien Misuse Medical Detox
Because of the negative symptoms associated with Ambien detox and withdrawal, medical detox is highly recommended. Withdrawal symptoms associated with Ambien use may include:
– Persistent headaches
– Uncontrollable shaking or body tremors
– Aches and pains throughout the body
– General feelings of physical discomfort
– Nausea and vomiting
– Profuse sweating
– Restlessness
– Insomnia
– Impaired motor functioning
– Severe anxiety and panic attacks
– Intense confusion
– Depression
– Delirium
Ambien Withdrawal Timeline
Typically, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms 6 to 8 hours following last use. Symptoms are usually fully experienced 48 hours following last use. Withdrawal symptoms can last for a total of 1 to 2 weeks. Generally, individuals begin to improve 4 to 5 days after withdrawal symptoms begin.
The Treatment Approach for Ambien & Sedative Medication Abuse
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The combination of Medication-Assisted Treatment and therapeutic interventions have been found to be effective in treating Ambien misuse. Typically, an individual may be prescribed an over-the-counter pain reliever and non-addictive sleep aid, such as melatonin during treatment for Ambien use disorder. Individuals with more severe withdrawal symptoms may be prescribed medications such as Klonopin, anti-seizure medications, or antipsychotics during treatment. Behavioral therapies, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy can help individuals develop adaptive coping techniques needed to overcome their Ambien use.
Rehab Options & Treatment Programs for Ambien Addiction
Services: Detoxification, Intervention Services
Programs: Residential Inpatient, Partial Hospitalization (PHP), Intensive Outpatient (IOP)
Therapeutic Modalities: Holistic Treatment, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR)
Therapies: Individual Therapy, Group Therapy, Family Therapy
