Ambien addiction is often compared to the benzo, Xanax. However, Ambien is a non-benzodiazepine z-drug and part of a group of substances frequently referred to as sedative-hypnotics. It has identical effects as Xanax, but it lacks many of the harmful qualities that benzos possess. Created to treat acute insomnia, Ambien was originally intended as a substitute for potent benzos, but it is now regarded as also being very addictive.
Side Effects and Abuse of Ambien
Ambien addictions can be developed in as fast as 14 days, as many don’t know they’ve acquired an addiction until realizing they can’t fall asleep without taking an Ambien. Consistent users begin to need larger quantities of overtime to fall asleep, which only enhances their dependence on it.
When meant for medical use and prescribed by a doctor, Ambien should be used right prior to going to bed. However, abusers begin to use it long before falling asleep for its euphoric effects that produce a high feeling.
Examples of sleeping pills include:
- Euphoria
- Slowed breathing
- Drowsiness
- Reduced heartbeat
Ambient depresses a user’s central nervous system, and overdoses can lead to death. Some combine it with alcohol to strengthen its effects, while valium is also a common combination.
Ambien Addiction Treatment
Healing from an Ambien addiction can be certainly helped with a medical detox, which will assist with relapse prevention and ease symptoms of withdrawal. After detox, The Discovery House gradually transitions an individual to residential therapy and inpatient addiction treatment programs to continue long-term recovery at our luxury rehab facilities in Los Angeles.
Renowned as one of the best drug and alcohol centers in the U.S., we can certainly help someone struggling with an Ambien addiction. For more information on our long-term addiction treatment centers, call The Discovery House today at 818.452.1676 or fill out our form.