Millions of people in the United States take prescription medications to help them manage insomnia and other sleep issues. Ambien is one of the most common prescription drugs used to treat sleep disorders.
Some of the side effects of Ambien can increase the risk of addiction. People who use it for extended periods may abuse it or develop dependence. It can be very challenging to overcome Ambien dependence, and most people require intensive, ongoing treatment.
This article will explore what happens when people stop taking Ambien. You will learn:
- How people develop dependence on the drug
- Common Ambien withdrawal symptoms
- What to expect during a medical detox program
- Where to find treatment and recovery support
If you or someone you love struggle with Ambien abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find compassionate, comprehensive treatment at First Step Behavioral Health. Contact our intake team to learn about our treatment and recovery programs or to schedule an appointment.
What is Ambien?
Ambien is the brand name for zolpidem, a prescription drug used to treat insomnia. This medication can help users fall asleep faster. However, it is not intended to help people remain asleep.
Ambien has the potential for abuse. Abusing Ambien may lead to physical dependence. Taking Ambien while using other drugs that depress central nervous system (CNS) activity may increase the risk of abuse or other complications. Doctors typically prescribe Ambien for short-term use to reduce the risk of abuse or dependence.
Understanding Ambien Abuse
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies Ambien as a Schedule IV drug. This classification means that Ambien has a relatively low risk for abuse and physical dependence. However, people who take larger doses of Ambien than prescribed may develop symptoms of addiction, including tolerance, cravings, and withdrawal symptoms when stopping the drug.
Ambien is a sedative-hypnotic prescription drug that can help people fall asleep. People may like the way they feel while taking Ambien. They may misuse it for its sedative and calming effects.
Other users may develop tolerance to Ambien while taking it as prescribed. Over time, they may find that they need to take higher doses to get the desired effects of the drug.
People may quickly develop tolerance to Ambien. Research shows people may develop tolerance after taking Ambien for just two weeks. Some doctors limit Ambien prescriptions to reduce the risk of tolerance and misuse. Even with these precautions, people may misuse it.
It is essential to watch for signs of Ambien abuse. Ambien misuse includes:
- Taking high doses of Ambien or taking it more often than prescribed
- Taking Ambien for longer periods than prescribed
- Using Ambien differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting tablets
- Taking Ambien recreationally (not prescribed by a medical professional)
People who abuse Ambien may run out of their prescriptions early. They may feel anxious about how to get more. Some steal Ambien or do dishonest things to get more.
People who attempt to quit taking Ambien “cold turkey” typically experience withdrawal symptoms that make it challenging to avoid relapse. People must have medical and emotional support throughout detox.
Symptoms of Ambien Withdrawal
People with Ambien dependence may experience symptoms of withdrawal when they stop taking it. Common Ambien withdrawal symptoms include:
- Excessive sweating
- Lightheadedness
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Stomach cramps
- Rebound insomnia
- Hallucinations
- Delirium
- Faster breathing
- Nervousness
- Fatigue
- Panic attacks
- Uncontrollable crying
- Tremors in the hands
- Rapid heart rate
In rare cases, people may develop serious complications, including seizures, while withdrawing from Ambien. People must have consistent medical supervision and support throughout Ambien detox.
How Long Does Ambien Withdrawal Last? Exploring the Ambien Withdrawal Timeline
Ambien’s effects wear off quickly, and withdrawal typically begins within a few hours of a person’s last dose. Generally, withdrawal may last for two weeks or more.
Several factors can impact how long Ambien withdrawal lasts. These include:
- Age
- Gender
- How long the person has been taking Ambien
- Dose of Ambien
- Other drugs or substances used at the same time
- Co-occurring mental health or medical conditions
Here is an overview of a typical Ambien withdrawal timeline.
First 6 to 8 hours
Ambien withdrawal symptoms may develop within six to eight hours of a person’s last dose. Symptoms may include anxiety, agitation, sweating, and tremors.
1 to 5 days
Ambien withdrawal symptoms typically peak between days one and five. Physical and emotional withdrawal symptoms can make people very uncomfortable and increase the risk of relapse.
People require comprehensive medical and emotional support to manage symptoms. Detox treatment may include:
- Medications to manage withdrawal symptoms
- Emotional and mental health support, including individual and group therapy
- A supportive, secure environment
- Round-the-clock supervision and access to care
- Nutrition support, mindfulness, yoga, and other holistic therapies to soothe the body and mind
Holistic, compassionate support throughout detox can help people stay on track as they navigate the earliest days of their recovery journey.
7 to 14 days
Most people experience a significant improvement in their symptoms over the next one to two weeks. After detox, people must continue to receive treatment that addresses the physical, emotional, and behavioral aspects of their substance use.
Find Treatment Now
First Step Behavioral Health offers several levels of care and types of treatment programs to help people manage detox and recovery safely. Contact our intake team to learn about our programs, verify your insurance, or schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Zolpidem: Efficacy and Side Effects for Insomnia
- Science Direct: Efficacy and safety of Zolpidem in the treatment of insomnia disorder for one month: a meta-analysis of a randomized controlled trial
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Severe chronic abuse of zolpidem for over 10 years: a case report and review of similar cases
