Ambien, a medication developed to aid in short-term relief from sleepless nights, emerges as a significant player in the landscape of sleep aids, especially considering that approximately 50 to 70 million adults in the United States suffer from sleep disorders or deprivation.

Zolpidem was approved in the United States in 1992. It was initially used in Europe starting in 1988 and was brought to the US market through a collaboration between Synthelabo and Searle.

A staggering 38 million of these individuals turn to sleep medications for relief, with Ambien being a popular choice. Initially introduced as a safer alternative to benzodiazepines, Ambien was believed to carry a lower risk of addiction and tolerance.

At Still Detox Luxury Rehab in Boca Raton, Florida, we understand that inpatient treatment is crucial for successful Ambien detox and addiction recovery. Our facility is designed to provide a safe and supportive setting for individuals undergoing the withdrawal process from Ambien, with a focus on delivering comprehensive and personalized care to address each individual’s specific needs.

What is Ambien?

Ambien is typically available as a small, peach or pink tablet, formulated in dosages of 5 milligrams and 10 milligrams to accommodate varying levels of insomnia. There are also extended-release versions, offered in 6.25 milligrams and 12.5 milligrams, ideal for those who have trouble staying asleep. The medication can be identified by its distinctive appearance: either a blue tablet with an “A” imprint or a white, capsule-shaped tablet marked with “amb10” or “5421.”

The primary active component in Ambien, zolpidem, has been associated with severe allergic reactions in some cases.

Some of the most common reactions include:

Hives
Difficulty breathing
Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Children should not use this medication. The misuse of the drug poses serious risks, including the potential for addiction or, in extreme cases, overdose.

What is in Ambien?

Zolpidem is a sedative-hypnotic drug classified in the imidazopyridines group. It functions by influencing the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter in the brain, a natural agent that helps regulate nerve activity. Zolpidem enhances GABA’s effects by binding to GABA receptors, particularly the GABA-A receptor sites. This action increases the calming effect of GABA, leading to sedation, sleepiness, and muscle relaxation, which is beneficial for treating insomnia.

Can You Get Addicted to Ambien?

Yes, you can get addicted to Ambien. This can happen particularly with long-term use or misuse. Users may develop a tolerance, necessitating higher doses to achieve the desired effect. Over time, this can lead to physical or psychological dependence, characterized by a reliance on the drug for sleep or normal functioning. When you abruptly stop using it, it can result in withdrawal symptoms, including insomnia, anxiety, and in severe cases, seizures.

How Ambien is Abused?

Ambien (zolpidem) is a prescription medication commonly used to treat insomnia. While effective for its intended use, Ambien can be subject to misuse and abuse, which poses significant health risks.

Below are some of the most common ways Ambien is abused:

Taking Higher Doses than Prescribed
Using Ambien Without a Prescription
Combining with Other Substances: Using it along with substances like alcohol, opioids, or other depressants, heightening risks and side effects.
Altering the Method of Administration: Dangerous practices like crushing, snorting, or injecting it intensify its effects.

Street Names Of Ambien

Ambien is known by various street names, which can vary by region and even over time.

Street names of Ambien:

A-minus
Zombie Pills
No-Go Pills
Sleepeasy
Tic-Tacs (due to its small, white appearance similar to the candy)
Forget-Me Pill

Ambien Addiction Statistics

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in 2018, an estimated 741,000 Americans aged 12 or older abused zolpidem (the generic name for Ambien) specifically. The survey also found that in the same year:

Adolescents (12-17 years): Approximately 46,000 reported misusing prescription tranquilizers or sedatives, including Ambien.
Young Adults (18-25 years): An estimated 1.7 million abused these drugs during the same timeframe.
Adults (Over 25 years): About 4.3 million admitted to misusing prescription tranquilizers or sedatives in the prior year.
Total Estimate: Roughly 741,000 Americans aged 12 or older abused zolpidem (generic for Ambien).

Source: SAMSHA

How to get a good night sleep without using medications?

According to NIH; getting enough sleep is essential for your health. Here are some tips to help you improve your sleep quality:

Set a Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day to regulate your internal clock.
Exercise Regularly: Aim for 20 to 30 minutes of exercise daily, but avoid working out too close to bedtime.
Limit Stimulants: Avoid caffeine and nicotine later in the day, and steer clear of alcoholic drinks before bed.
Relax Before Bed: Engage in calming activities such as taking a warm bath, reading, or practicing a relaxing routine.
Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment: Ensure your room is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Keep electronics like TVs and computers out of the bedroom.
Avoid Lying in Bed Awake: If you can’t fall asleep, get up and do something relaxing, such as reading or listening to music, until you feel tired.