If you or a loved one are struggling with using Ambien, you may be asking, “is Ambien addictive?”.
Ambien, a branded form of zolpidem, is a prescription medication classified as a sedative-hypnotic and informally known as a z-drug. Ambien enhances inhibitory brain activity and is mainly prescribed to help individuals with insomnia achieve restful sleep.
You might be wondering “Is Ambien addictive” if you have been prescribed this z-drug. Z-drugs like Ambien were initially marketed as a safer alternative to benzodiazepines, with purportedly lower risks of addiction and tolerance. Regrettably, recent research suggests that these claims were underestimated. There are also significant health concerns associated with prolonged Ambien use, including potential respiratory issues, reflux, and infections.
Ambien affects the brain similarly to benzodiazepines, but it tends to cause less grogginess the following day and has a slightly lower likelihood of leading to dependence.
This guide to Ambien addiction explores the following key issues:
- Can you get addicted to Ambien?
- How long can I take Ambien before I get addicted?
- How addictive is Ambien?
- Why is Ambien so addictive?
- Ambien addiction and withdrawal: what is the safest and most effective treatment?
- What are the main Ambien addiction side effects?
- Addicted to Ambien – now what? How to connect with Ambien addiction treatment in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Ambien Addiction Signs
Ambien addiction risk is greater than initially believed. Addiction to Ambien side effects
may include aggression, anxiety, depression, memory lapses, drowsiness, impaired driving, lack of coordination, nightmares, slowed reaction time, and even suicidal thoughts.
Ambien addiction symptoms may include any or all of the following:
- Increased tolerance: Individuals addicted to Ambien may develop a tolerance to the drug over time. This means that they require higher doses to achieve the same effects they once experienced with lower doses.
- Withdrawal symptoms: When attempting to reduce or stop Ambien use, Ambien addiction withdrawal symptoms may present. Symptoms include rebound insomnia, anxiety, irritability, sweating, nausea, and tremors.
- Compulsive use: Those struggling with Ambien addiction may find it challenging to control their usage and may feel compelled to take the drug even when it’s not necessary for sleep.
- Continued use despite harm: Despite experiencing negative consequences in their personal, professional, or health-related aspects of life, individuals addicted to Ambien may persist in its use.
- Doctor shopping: Those grappling with Ambien addiction may visit different doctors to obtain multiple prescriptions for Ambien to ensure a steady supply of the medication.
- Neglecting responsibilities: Ambien addiction can lead to neglecting daily responsibilities, such as work, school, or family obligations, due to the effects of the drug.
- Social isolation: Individuals with addictions often withdraw from social activities, family gatherings, and hobbies they once enjoyed.
- Changes in behavior: Ambien addiction can lead to uncharacteristic changes in behavior, including mood swings, irritability, and secrecy.
- Financial issues: Addiction to Ambien may cause financial strain as individuals spend significant amounts of money to maintain their supply of Ambien.
- Failed attempts to quit: Despite recognizing the negative impact of Ambien addiction, those with addictions may repeatedly try and fail to quit using the drug.
Ambien Addiction Withdrawals
If you have been using Ambien in high doses or for an extended period, the withdrawal symptoms you may experience can be more severe. These symptoms can manifest within 48 hours of reducing or discontinuing Ambien use and may include:
- Agitation
- Anxiety attacks
- Panic attacks
- Delirium
- Disorientation
- Hallucinations
- Increased blood pressure and pulse
- High body temperature
- Sweating
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Restlessness
- Seizures
- Stomach cramps
- Abdominal discomfort
- Tremors
Abusing z-drugs like Ambien can be dangerous. Seeking professional help and support will streamline the withdrawal process. Medically managed withdrawal, also known as medical detox, is almost always recommended for safely reducing Ambien use under the supervision of trained medical staff. A supervised Ambien detox will mitigate uncomfortable and potentially life-threatening complications during z-drug withdrawal. During medical detox, staff at a treatment or detox facility can provide medications and continuous monitoring to ensure your safety.
Treatment for Ambien Addiction
Overcoming Ambien addiction requires a comprehensive treatment approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.
A supervised medical detox helps stabilize the individual and prepares them for further treatment in an inpatient or outpatient setting. Behavioral therapies like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and CM (contingency management) can help address the psychological components of Ambien addiction. CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to drug use. Contingency management provides positive reinforcement for sobriety and encourages adherence to the treatment plan.
Individual counseling sessions with a licensed therapist or counselor provide a safe space for exploring personal triggers for Ambien use, developing coping strategies, and setting achievable recovery goals.
Group therapy allows those in recovery to connect with peers facing similar challenges, share experiences, and provide mutual support. Group therapy promotes a sense of belonging and helps individuals learn from each other’s successes and setbacks. Involving family members in the treatment process can also be beneficial, as it addresses family dynamics, streamlines communication, and strengthens support systems.
In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe medication to address co-occurring mental health disorders or to manage withdrawal symptoms during detox. That said, medications should be part of a broader treatment plan and administered only under close medical supervision.
Developing healthy habits and positive coping mechanisms, such as regular exercise, proper nutrition, mindfulness practices, and engaging in hobbies, can significantly contribute to successful recovery.
Get Evidence-Based Treatment for Ambien Addiction at Ohio Recovery Centers
At Ohio Recovery Centers, we specialize in providing personalized addiction treatment programs tailored specifically for individuals struggling with Ambien addiction, as well as addictions to alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs.
Our research-backed approach has shown that mild and moderate Ambien addictions respond equally well to intensive outpatient treatment as they do to residential rehab. Our outpatient treatment programs offer flexibility and affordability without compromising the level of care you receive.
You can choose from two comprehensive programs at our Cincinnati rehab:
- IOPs (intensive outpatient programs)
- Outpatient programs
At Ohio Recovery Centers, all our treatment programs integrate pharmacological, behavioral, and holistic therapies to ensure a well-rounded and effective recovery process. Our science-backed approach equips you with relapse prevention strategies, coping techniques, and ongoing therapy options if needed, to support your long-term recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling with Ambien addiction, contact our admissions team today at 877-679-2132 for immediate assistance. We are here to help you take the first step towards a healthier and addiction-free life.
