What is Ambien Withdrawal?
As a sedative-hypnotic medication, Ambien (main ingredient zolpidem) is a psychoactive drug. Regular use can lead to physical or psychological addiction. In fact, Ambien is a highly addictive sleeping aid, and doctors are warned on the manufacturer’s label against prescription use Ambien for longer than a couple of weeks at a time.
What is Ambien withdrawal? Ambien withdrawal happens when a person becomes physically dependent on zolpidem and suddenly quits or lowers dosage of Ambien. When Ambien is no longer in the body, the system gets out of whack because it doesn’t know how to function without it. The body needs time to adapt the new Ambien-free environment. But, when does Ambien withdrawal occur? What are its symptoms?
Ambien Withdrawal Duration
Find the answers in our easy-to-understand Ambien infographic. And if you have any questions and/or comments, please post them in the section at the end. We’re eager to see what you think. In fact, we try to respond to all real-life questions with a personal and prompt reply.
Ambien Withdrawal Timeline
The onset of Ambien withdraw symptoms can manifest a few hours to a couple of days after the last taken dose of Ambien, and it may last from few day to a month (in some extreme cases, can last up to several months or a year). Rebound insomnia is common, as are mood disorders. Withdrawal from Ambien can be uncomfortable, and it’s best treated under medical supervision.
What Are the Symptoms of Ambien Withdrawal?
What are the main Ambien withdrawal symptoms? Below is a detailed list of all symptoms of Ambien withdrawal within the common period of occurrence.
24-72 hours after the last Ambien dose:
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Fearfulness
- Hallucinations
- Memory loss
- Mood swings
- Psychosis
- Sleep disorders
- Shaking
- Vomiting
Week 1 Ambien Withdrawal:
- Cravings
- Depression
- Nightmares
- Paranoia
Week 2 Ambien Withdrawal:
- Brain fog
- Cravings
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Panic attacks
- Sleep stabilization
Week 3 Ambien Withdrawal:
- Decreased cravings
- Sleep disorders
Week 4 Ambien Withdrawal:
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Feeling better
- Sleep stabilization
How Long Does Ambien Withdrawal Last?
Withdrawal from Ambien can last from few weeks to several months. It all depends from person’s health, frequency of use, and regular Ambien dosage. However, long-term Ambien users may experience protracted acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) that last for a longer period of time, usually lasting for at least 6 months after cessation. The most common Ambien PAWS include:
- Anxiety
- Cravings
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Nightmares
How can you best address Ambien withdrawal? The SAFEST way to manage withdrawal onset of symptoms is to seek medical detox support. You can also enroll into a reputable rehab facility, where trained medical professionals can help you overcome the withdrawal process. Rehab helps people manage and address possible addiction so that they can live a drug-free life.
We understand it is difficult to talk to someone about your struggle. Check out our interactive Virtual Consultant to receive your treatment options easily.
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Ambien Withdrawal Symptoms Questions
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Still got questions about Ambien withdrawal? Please, feel free to post them in the comments section below. We try to respond to all legitimate inquiries ASAP.
Refference sources: FDA: Ambien Drug Label
National Library of Medicine: Modest abuse-related subjective effects of zolpidem in drug-naпve volunteers
DailyMed: Ambien CR
National Library of Medicine: Zolpidem withdrawal delirium
PubMed: Detoxification from high-dose zolpidem using diazepam
PubMed: Evidence of zolpidem abuse and dependence
NCBI: Zolpidem withdrawal delirium
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