Ambien Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline and Treatment

What Is Ambien Withdrawal Like?

Ambien Withdrawal Symptoms

Ambien influences gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a primary inhibitory neurotransmitter for the central nervous system that reduces excitability by inhibiting nerve transmission.[3] With regular Ambien use, the brain and body become dependent on the drug to function properly, so stopping suddenly can bring on unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.

With low-dose Ambien, withdrawal typically includes trouble sleeping for several days. But with higher doses, especially misuse, withdrawal symptoms may include:[4]

• Abdominal pain
• Anxiety
• Headaches
• High blood pressure
• Confusion, delirium, or disorientation
• Irritability
• Trouble sleeping
• Speech problems
• Restlessness
• Seizures
• Tremors

Ambien Withdrawal Timeline

Ambien (zolpidem) has a half-life of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours and is typically recommended for short-term management of insomnia.[5]

Withdrawal can be different for everyone, however. The length of use and dosage of Ambien significantly affect the intensity of withdrawal.[6] Older adults or people with co-occurring disorders may experience more severe withdrawal symptoms.

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome for Ambien

Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) is a set of symptoms that occur after quitting a drug of abuse. Also known as prolonged withdrawal syndrome or protracted withdrawal syndrome, PAWS has symptoms similar to mood disorders or anxiety disorders.

PAWS is most likely to occur after an acute withdrawal from alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines, but it can occur with other substances like Ambien. The symptoms of PAWS fluctuate in severity and may linger after withdrawal or disappear and reappear. These symptoms include:[7]

• Learning and memory problems
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Irritability
• Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
• Cravings for substances
• Pessimism or apathy
• Low tolerance for stress
• Sleep issues

Types of Drug Withdrawal Treatment

Experts recommend weaning off of Ambien to discontinue use – with or without addiction – to lessen the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Depending on the dosage, you may need to taper off Ambien following a specific plan to get your body used to progressively lower amounts of the drug.[8]

This is done under the supervision of a physician, which is why detox can be helpful for Ambien withdrawal treatment. With round-the-clock medical care, Ambien tapering can be monitored, and any withdrawal symptoms can be addressed immediately.

If you’ve taken Ambien for long periods of time or at higher doses, it can be dangerous to go through withdrawal. You may develop serious symptoms like seizures or delirium.[9]

Detox is an important step in getting through Ambien withdrawal, but it’s not enough to manage the underlying addiction to the substance. Ongoing treatment is an important part of uncovering the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that led to Ambien’s abuse and addiction.

Treatment is individualized but may include:

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment takes place in a 24-hour care facility with individual and group counseling, psychiatric care, and education to resolve issues related to drug misuse and addiction.

Learn More About Inpatient Treatment

Behavioral Therapies

Behavioral therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be highly effective at treating Ambien addiction and the insomnia that led to its use.[10] One-on-one sessions are key to addiction treatment programs to address the underlying psychological issues that contribute to addiction and learn appropriate ways to manage behaviors and avoid relapse.

Learn More About CBT

Group Therapy and 12-Step Therapy

Many of the same approaches used in individual therapy sessions work well in a group, providing a support system for sharing the experience and learning effective coping strategies.

Learn More About Group & 12-Step Therapy

How Ambien Withdrawal Treatment Works

Unlike many recreational drugs, Ambien misuse and dependence often occur when Ambien is legally prescribed as a treatment for insomnia. Tolerance may build up, leading people to take more Ambien to fall and stay asleep. Addiction can happen if Ambien is taken at higher doses or for longer periods than prescribed.

Still, the core issue is often insomnia, which has both medical and psychological causes.[11] Seeking treatment for Ambien addiction and withdrawal means addressing underlying issues and co-occurring disorders that can contribute to insomnia and drug misuse, such as depression or anxiety.

Addiction isn’t universal, and neither are treatment options. Different therapies and levels of care ensure that you get the individualized care you need, whether you benefit from staying in a residential facility until withdrawal is complete or need outpatient care to manage your day-to-day responsibilities. You can sleep soundly or need outpatient care to manage your day-to-day responsibilities without sacrificing your treatment.

Medications Used for Ambien Withdrawal

Depending on the dose, Ambien and other sedative-hypnotic drugs can have mild to severe withdrawal symptoms, including a risk of seizures or delirium. In some cases, medical detox with benzodiazepines or other long-acting sedatives may be necessary to mitigate the risk of complications.[12]

What’s the Best Way to Find Ambien Withdrawal Treatment?

Ambien withdrawal can last for weeks, so detox is often the first step in getting Ambien addiction treatment. If you or a loved one are struggling with Ambien addiction, you can speak with your physician or therapist to find a detox center. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) also offers resources for nearby detox centers.

If you’re ready to take the first step now, Alpas Wellness offers a 24/7 confidential helpline with compassionate professionals. Contact us today to learn more.

Contact Alpas Wellness

Cost of Drug Withdrawal Treatment

The cost of Ambien withdrawal treatment can vary according to the level of care and therapies you need. Fortunately, many health insurance providers cover substance use disorder treatment. Contact our team at Alpas Wellness to see if you have an in-network provider.