Kennesaw Ambien Rehab

Overcome Ambien Addiction at North Georgia Recovery Center

You may have heard that Ambien is not addictive if used as directed. While this is true, many people use Ambien outside of its recommended dosage, and some people use Ambien recreationally. Any deviation from prescription use could result in addiction. Additionally, Ambien is associated with unsettling side effects and may be more harmful than helpful if your insomnia is the result of a deeper problem.

If you are worried about your Ambien use, North Georgia Recovery Center is here to help. We can discuss your concerns and help you pursue treatment, if appropriate.

Call us today at (678) 940-7873 to learn more about our Ambien rehab program in Kennesaw, GA, or get started online.

What Is Ambien?

Ambien is the #1 best-selling prescription sleep medicine in the United States and the brand-name for the drug, zolpidem. It belongs to a class of drugs known as sedative-hypnotics, and like other drugs, Ambien can be abused.

Many people start taking Ambien to treat insomnia, and in the process, realize they like the anxiety-easing effects associated with the drug. Others develop a tolerance for the drug and take higher doses to get to sleep, only to experience a noticeable “high” when they increase their dosage. Others still mix Ambien with alcohol or other substances, which can be particularly dangerous.

As doses of Ambien increase, so does the risk of addiction.

When your Ambien usage spirals out of control, you can turn to North Georgia Recovery Center. We’ll take the first step toward recovery, together.

Is Ambien a Controlled Substance?

When people who take Ambien recreationally or by prescription realize its addictive properties, they often wonder, is Ambien considered a controlled substance? The answer is yes; Ambien is a federally controlled substance.

Why is Ambien Considered a Controlled Substance, and When Did Ambien Become a Controlled Substance?

What makes Ambien a controlled substance is its high risk for abuse and dependency. It was first used in the United States in 1992, and was since deemed to be a controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970.

Is Ambien Over the Counter Or Prescription?

When you have a dependency on Ambien, it can be distressing if your source for this drug disappears. This scenario often leads to people asking, is Ambien prescription only, and if so, is it illegal to buy Ambien online? Ambien is actually a prescription drug, and online sales are illegal if there is no prescription. However, online doctors can prescribe Ambien if they believe you meet the criteria for it.

What Schedule Drug is Ambien, and What Class of Drug is Ambien?

Ambien is a Schedule IV drug. This means it has accepted medical use and a potential for abuse, physical dependence, and psychological dependence. However, the risks are considered milder than many other drugs. Other drugs in this schedule include Xanax and Klonopin. Ambien belongs to a class of drugs called sedative-hypnotics. Sedative-hypnotics are also known as tranquilizers, sleeping pills, or sedatives.

Is Ambien a Benzo?

Ambien is not a benzodiazepine medication, but the drug does have similar effects. Officially classified as a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic medication, Ambien was designed to reproduce the effects of benzodiazepines without the high risk of dependency. Like benzodiazepines, Ambien interacts with receptors in the brain that bind with GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a chemical that influences sleep. Although Ambien is less addictive than benzos, Ambien misuse is growing, and the drug is linked to some troubling side effects.

Sanofi, Ambien’s manufacturer, warns users of “abnormal thinking” and “strange behavior,” and other side effects of Ambien include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Mood swings
• Agitation
• Confusion
• Aggressive behavior
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Memory loss
• Behavioral changes
• Sleepwalking
• Hallucinations
• Suicidal thoughts

Some of these side effects may also be symptoms of addiction.

You should discuss any concerns about your prescription with your doctor, but if you need help quitting, you can also explore our programs at North Georgia Recovery Center.

Am I Addicted to Ambien?

Needing Ambien to go to sleep doesn’t necessarily mean you are addicted, but physical dependence on a drug is one of the telltale signs of addiction. If you are dependent on Ambien, you might experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking the drug.

Other signs and symptoms of Ambien addiction include:

• Needing more and more Ambien to get the same “high” (tolerance)
• Using and craving Ambien frequently
• Neglecting relationships and responsibilities to use Ambien
• Having multiple prescriptions
• Doing dangerous or illegal things to obtain Ambien
• Spending money you don’t have on Ambien
• Always having Ambien on hand
• Taking more Ambien than you mean to
• Engaging in risky behaviors while on Ambien (driving, having unprotected sex)
• Continuing to use Ambien despite negative consequences
• Inability to cut back on or stop using Ambien

If you or someone you love is displaying the signs and symptoms above, they may have an Ambien addiction.

Our treatments and therapies can help you overcome it.

Managing Sleep Without Ambien

After seeking treatment for Ambien addiction, getting back to a normal, healthy sleep routine is essential to preventing relapse. Some effective ways to reset your sleep schedule include:

• Go to sleep at a consistent time: Having a consistent bedtime can help teach your body when it's time to go to sleep and help you to naturally feel tired as this time approaches.
• Seek counseling: Continual therapy after treatment can help you not only avoid relapse but also aid with issues such as anxiety or stress that can contribute to insomnia.
• Destress: Meditation, regular exercise, and even therapeutic massages can all help you to manage stress and make it easier to fall asleep.
• Eliminate distractions: A distraction-free environment can be critical to healthy sleep. Hanging dark curtains, using a fan for ambient noise, and avoiding smartphone or television use before bedtime can all help to minimize sleep-killing distractions.
• Abstain from caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine: Most people know that stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine can make it harder to sleep, though alcohol's effects on sleep are often overlooked. While a drink can help certain people feel relaxed and sleepy in the short run, certain studies have linked alcohol consumption to poor sleep quality and duration.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ambien Rehab

How long does Ambien rehab typically last?

The duration of Ambien rehab varies depending on individual needs and the severity of addiction. However, most programs last between 30 and 90 days.

Can I continue taking other medications during Ambien rehab?

You may be able to continue taking certain medications during Ambien rehab, but it's essential to discuss this with your treatment team. They will carefully evaluate any potential interactions and adjust your medications as needed.

What happens after I complete Ambien rehab?

After completing Ambien rehab, it's important to continue attending support groups and follow your aftercare plan to maintain sobriety.

What are the potential risks of abruptly stopping Ambien use?

Abruptly stopping Ambien use can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms, including:

• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Agitation
• Sweating
• Tremors
• Seizures

It's important to taper off Ambien under medical supervision to minimize these risks.

Can I relapse after completing Ambien rehab?

Yes, relapse is a possibility for anyone in recovery. However, by developing coping mechanisms and seeking support, you can reduce your risk of relapse.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward recovery, call us at (678) 940-7873 or contact us online today.