Ambien Addiction & Detox Treatment

Ambien belongs to a category of drugs called sedative-hypnotics. It works by activating the neurotransmitter and slows down the entire central nervous system. Physical dependence on Ambien drugs can form in as little as two weeks. Unfortunately, Ambien is prescribed as a sleep aid for acute insomnia; users begin using the drug due to lack of sleep and find it effective. It is meant to be used as a short-term solution, but addiction can begin within two weeks. This addiction occurs regardless of whether the user is abusing the drug or following a medical prescription. Dependence on Ambien is characterized by tolerance, whereby the user will require larger amounts of the drug to feel the same effect. This dependence leads to substance abuse.

When detoxing from Ambien, or if the user reduces the dosage or even stops taking the drug, withdrawal symptoms occur. Ambien detox time varies from patient to patient. Eventually, Ambien’s dependence may become a full-blown addiction characterized by Ambien’s withdrawal symptoms, compulsive use, and tolerance.

Most Ambien addictions or drug abuse begin with a simple case of taking the sleeping pill for short-term insomnia. Signs of Ambien’s addiction include the following:

Ambien detox generally involves tapering down approach. Our inpatient treatment facility is equipped to assist by gradually reducing a user’s doses of Ambien medication. Following strict Ambien detox protocol, the user recovers and gradually readjusts to life without Ambien. This evidence-based process also helps to reduce the side effects of the withdrawal. We offer cognitive behavioral therapy and specialty therapies to help you overcome addiction and train your body to get to sleep without the drug. Some patients also do Ambien detox at home as a quick remedy to taper off Ambien, which medical professionals do not highly recommend.