Ambien is the brand name for the drug Zolpidem and is used, for example, as a sedative for those who have trouble sleeping. It was originally marketed as an alternative to benzodiazepines, but it can have the same hypnotic effects, so it should be taken with caution.
Ambien has become one of the most popular sleep medications in the U.S., but can easily lead to Ambien dependence. According to an estimate by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more than 500,000 people are currently abusing Ambien as well as other sedatives. Of course, this abuse requires the help of an outpatient Ambien addiction treatment center south Jersey offers.
Symptoms
Like benzodiazepines, Ambien also affects receptor cells in the brain that bind with the chemical GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). GABA influences sleep, but Ambien can cause a variety of effects if a user takes it and stays awake. For example, these effects include (and can lead to a need for Ambien rehab):
- A feeling of euphoria
- Hallucinations
- An overall “rush”
- Relaxation
- Reduced anxiety
- Motion distortion
Need Help?
Call us at 855.259.1624
Dangers & Effects
Ambien addictions can form in a little as two weeks and are mainly due to the fact that once someone builds a tolerance to the drug, they’ll need more of it to continue their ability to fall asleep. This can easily lead to Ambien abuse and both short-term and long-term effects:
Short-term effects include:
- Sleepwalking
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Impaired vision
- Disorientation
- Aggression
- Diarrhea
Long-term effects include:
- Muscle cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Anxiety
- Increased emotional numbness
- Memory loss
- Sleep disturbances
Withdrawal
When a person relies on Ambien, they often don’t realize they’re addicted to it until they stop taking it and can’t sleep without it. While this is the most common withdrawal symptom for the drug, there are others that can set occur 48 hours after the last dose and lead to a need for Ambien rehab. Ambien withdrawal symptoms also include:
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Tremors
- Fatigue
- Delirium
- Panic attacks
- Sweating
Treatment Option
Of course, every year, millions of people are prescribed sleeping medications like Ambien. If you or someone you know is suffering from addiction or abuse, then contact Victory Bay Recovery Center today. We offer Ambien addiction treatment programs to help you cleanse your body and also get you back on track to living a healthy, addiction-free life. Our professional staff members are here to offer the medication, care, and support you need to overcome your Ambien dependence and live happily. Discover the benefits of our facility today by calling 855.259.1624.
