Ambien Addiction: The Warning Signs and Treatments

Ambien is a sleep inducing medication within the sedative-hypnotic class which is given to patients suffering from insomnia. In most cases the drug works by slowing brain activity to aid sleep and its calming effects can be used safely without the risk of negative results. Unfortunately, Ambien is also habit forming and for some users prescription use of the medication can quickly develop into an addiction.

How To Recognize Ambien Addiction

If you are concerned that your Ambien use or that of a loved one has developed into drug abuse or addiction, then action should be taken as soon as possible. The following signs can be indications that Ambien addiction treatment is needed:

- Increased Dosage

Ambien is intended for short term use of around 30 days. Taking it for more than the recommended period is not only a sign of addiction; it can also lead to a tolerance of the drug. Those addicted may find themselves increasing their dose to dangerous amounts to get the same calming effects. To prevent a reliance on Ambien from developing, it is important to take the medication exactly according to doctor's instructions.

- Hangover-Like Side Effects

The morning after taking Ambien, hangover-like side effects can occur. If these are beginning to affect your ability to go to work or school, then it could be a sign that your Ambien use is too high.

- Abuse Of The Substance

Ambien is an expensive drug and it is prescribed in strict doses. To amplify the effects of the drug or to create an euphoric state, some users mix the substance with other drugs, alcohol, or painkillers. In extreme cases users may even snort, crush, or inject a cooked version of the substance intravenously to get a more powerful dose over a smaller time frame.

- Health Problems

Long term abuse of Ambien is linked with emotional issues like low energy, mood changes, and depression. Taking the substance regularly can even lead to physical health problems such as liver damage, a rapid heart rate, or difficulty breathing.

Types of Ambien Addiction Treatment

Once Ambien addiction has been recognized, there are several forms of treatment that can be used to overcome the problem. Consultation with a medical professional before starting any treatment is useful when deciding which method is best for the age, gender, lifestyle, and habits of the patient.

- Detoxification

Detoxification is a process of abstinence from Ambien which is used to remove all traces of harmful chemicals and toxins from your body. Once complete, you will be able to start further treatment without being affected by any toxins that have built up as a result of long term use. As with nearly all addictive substances, withdrawal symptoms can occur during the detox phase and present medical complications. As a result, detoxification is most successful when carried out under the supervision of a trained medical professional.

- Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment is carried out at a rehabilitation center or other medical facility, and it is used to treat the most serious cases of addiction. This form of care not only deals with health problems and immediate medical needs, the longer term causes of addiction are also looked at in detail. Inpatient treatment often includes a combination of group and private therapy sessions and addiction awareness classes. To battle the underlying cause of insomnia, treatments like meditation, yoga, exercise classes, or acupuncture can be used. This is all carried out in a structured environment and is usually followed up with a phase of monitored outpatient care.

- Outpatient Programs

Outpatient programs are less intensive than inpatient care. They allow vital treatment to go on without disrupting everyday tasks like going to work or childcare. Outpatient programs are usually used after inpatient treatment, as a continuation of therapy and monitoring. However, in cases where Ambien addiction is less intense outpatient care could be used on its own to treat the condition.

Working to combat an addiction is an extremely difficult process, and in Ambien addiction sufferers, withdrawal is often marked with insomnia, frustration, and feelings of hopelessness. Making sure that Ambien addiction treatment is done with the assistance of trained professionals who can provide medication or medical assistance when necessary, will give patients a much higher chance of succeeding.