Zolpidem Tartrate Withdrawal Symptoms
Zolpidem is a prescription drug that can assist people suffering from insomnia. But a laundry list of side effects while taking the drug are common. Withdrawing from the drug can also lead to mild to intense symptoms ranging from debilitating to disorienting. With medical supervision and a plan of action, you can gradually wean yourself and avoid some of the adverse withdraw symptoms that go along with it.
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History
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Zolpidem tartrate is a hypnotic drug prescribed as a sleeping pill to help those suffering from insomnia and some brain conditions. Ambien and Stilnoct are common variations of the drug.
Function
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Doctors typically prescribe zolpidem for a short period of time, usually up to two weeks, to help patients sleep. Some users may become dependent on the drug, especially after long-term use.
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Types
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People who take zolpidem too long, abuse it, are sensitive to medications or are susceptible to addiction may become dependent on the drug. Withdrawing from Zolpidem can create its own series of wide-ranging symptoms. Some reactions may include abdominal pain, cramping, dry throat, dizziness, teeth grinding, tingling scalp, headaches, aching joints, aggression, blurry vision and rash. Any sudden or drastic changes in a patient's physical and mental condition could indicate a zolpidem withdraw symptom.
Effects
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According to the Tranquilliser Recovery and Awareness Place (see Resources), there are also mental and emotional withdraw symptoms associated with zolpidem. Some users report an acute fear of being alone, anxiety, depression, hostility, rapid mood swings, unusual behavior, confusion, lack of coordination, disorientation, persistent suicidal thoughts, lethargy, morbid thoughts and restlessness.
Warning
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Some users report more severe withdraw symptoms including blood clots, low or high blood sugar, nightmares, sexual dysfunction, violence, irregular menstruation periods, myoclonic jerks, jaw pain, strange and erratic moods, obsessive compulsive behavior, agoraphobia, fear of water and intense paranoia. It's important not to hastily quit the drug in hopes of avoiding any reactions. Suddenly quitting zolpidem can intensify the withdraw symptoms and leave a person feeling worse than when she started taking it.
Prevention/Solution
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Those who wish to withdraw from zolpidem without extreme adverse reactions should consult a doctor and follow a recommended course of action. Your doctor can chart your progress and make recommendations to your dosage and how to stabilize your system each week.
Considerations
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Zolpidem users should expect to withdraw by gradually reducing their dosage over several weeks or months. A doctor should be consulted on any reactions, withdraw symptoms and changes in appetite or behavior. Keep notes on your symptoms, the day they occurred, and how long they lasted.
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