Ambien is a common prescription sleep aid. People who abuse it may develop Ambien dependence. Stopping Ambien can be challenging. Stopping Ambien use after using it for an extended period may lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Treatment and support, including a medical detox program, can help to treat Ambien withdrawal. Comprehensive treatment and ongoing support can lead to long-term recovery from Ambien addiction.

This article will explore what happens during Ambien withdrawal.

If you or a loved one lives with Ambien abuse or addiction, help is available. Learn about Alamo Behavioral Health’s comprehensive treatment and support programs or schedule an intake appointment. Our intake specialists are happy to answer your questions or help you find the right type of treatment to meet your needs.

What is Ambien?

Ambien is the brand name for zolpidem, a prescription drug used to treat insomnia. It may help people fall asleep more easily, but it does not help them stay asleep.

Ambien has the potential for misuse and physical dependence. Doctors may prescribe Ambien for short-term use to reduce the risk of abuse and addiction.

Individuals may experience complications from Ambien misuse, especially when they combine it with other substances that depress central nervous system (CNS) activity. It is critical to take Ambien exactly as prescribed and seek help if you notice signs of abuse or dependence.

Understanding Ambien Abuse and Addiction

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies Ambien as a Schedule IV drug. This means that it has a low risk for abuse and physical dependence. However, people who misuse Ambien by taking it for long periods or taking higher doses may develop physical dependence.

Some of Ambien’s side effects may be pleasurable to people. It can cause sedation and relaxation, which may make people want to take more of it than prescribed. This can lead to tolerance (needing more to get the desired effects) and physical dependence.

It is critical to watch for signs of Ambien abuse. Ambien misuse includes:

• Taking high doses of Ambien (more than prescribed)
• Using Ambien for longer periods than prescribed
• Taking Ambien more often than prescribed
• Using Ambien differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting tablets

People who abuse Ambien may run out of their prescriptions early. They may feel anxious about running out of Ambien. They may also do illegal or dishonest things to get more of the drug.

People with Ambien dependence can not choose to stop using it. Most people require intensive treatment and continuing support to stop using it and avoid relapse.

Ambien Withdrawal Symptoms

When someone with Ambien dependence stops taking it, they are likely to experience withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms may begin within a few hours of a person’s last dose. Symptoms may last for up to two weeks.

Several factors can affect how long Ambien withdrawal symptoms last, including:

• Age
• Gender
• Co-occurring mental health or medical conditions
• Length of Ambien abuse
• Dose of Ambien
• Other substances used at the same time

People who abruptly stop taking Ambien may experience symptoms that include:

• Rebound insomnia
• Mood swings
• Hallucinations
• Delirium
• Fatigue
• Rapid heart rate
• Lightheadedness
• Uncontrollable crying
• Anxiety
• Tremors in the hands
• Excessive sweating
• Panic attacks
• Nervousness
• Stomach cramps
• Faster breathing

In some rare cases, people may develop seizures during withdrawal from Ambien. People must receive medical professional supervision and treatment during withdrawal. This can ensure a person’s safety and help them to avoid relapse.

Alamo Behavioral Health accepts many major insurance plans, including:

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Ambien Withdrawal Timeline

Ambien withdrawal can be challenging. Knowing what to expect at each stage of detox can help you prepare for it.

Here is an overview of the Ambien withdrawal timeline.

First 6 to 8 hours

People typically experience symptoms of Ambien withdrawal within the first 6 to 8 hours after their last dose. Symptoms may include anxiety, stomach cramping, elevated heart rate, and more.

Medical supervision and treatment can ensure people stay safe and comfortable throughout the early stages of detox. Treatment may include:

• Medications to reduce symptoms
• Holistic therapies to soothe the mind and body, such as nutrition support, mindfulness, and yoga
• Emotional support, including individual and group therapy

Round-the-clock access to treatment can help people get through the first hours and days of detox.

1 to 5 days

Symptoms peak between the first and fifth day of detox. People may be very uncomfortable as physical and psychological symptoms develop and worsen. Comprehensive support, including medications and emotional support, can help people stay on track during the early days of recovery.

7 to 14 days

Toward the end of the first week, symptoms may begin to improve. Symptoms will continue to improve over the next one to two weeks.

Comprehensive detox and treatment programs can help people stay safe and focused on recovery. After a safe, complete detox, people must continue in a treatment program to address the complex roots of their substance abuse.

Find Treatment Now

If you or someone you love struggles with Ambien abuse or addiction, help is available at Alamo Behavioral Health. Learn more about our programs or schedule an intake appointment by contacting our specialists today.

References:

1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Ambien label
2. Science Direct: Efficacy and safety of Zolpidem in the treatment of insomnia disorder for one month: a meta-analysis of a randomized controlled trial
3. National Institute of Health (NIH): Zolpidem dependence, abuse and withdrawal: A case report
4. NIH: Abrupt Withdrawal From Chronic High-Dose Zolpidem Use: A Case Report of Resulting Delirium