Zolpidem is a medication that is designed to make a person sleep, nevertheless, in certain situations, the usage of this drug may turn into an unnoticed assistance to addiction. If you or a loved one is withdrawing from zolpidem, it’s common to feel confused, restless, or anxious about what lies ahead. The explanation of the mechanism of zolpidem action, the reasons why the patient should cease taking the substance, and the appearance of the proper recovery are the key to stabilizing the condition and returning to sleep.

This blog investigates the withdrawal symptoms of zolpidem, the risk of addiction, the long-term side effects of zolpidem, and the possibility of professional help as part of the recovery.

What Is Zolpidem and Why Is It Prescribed?

Zolpidem is a drug that is commonly known as a Z-drug. Although not a benzodiazepine, it has the same effect as calming and sedating receptors of the brain. Due to this reason, the side effects of zolpidem tartrate may include drowsiness, loss of memory, and mental slowing of reaction.

The average use of zolpidem is on a short-term basis, which is not more than a few weeks. When the drug is taken over a longer period than prescribed or at an increased dosage, then issues are likely to occur.

Recognizing the Signs of Zolpidem Addiction

Zolpidem addiction is not necessarily quite evident on the surface. Most individuals start taking the medication at the dosage recommended by their doctor, only to realize that they require larger dosages or a higher frequency to achieve the same effect.

There can be indications of zolpidem addiction, which can include:

• To fall asleep requires an increased dose of zolpidem.
• Insomnia without the medication.
• Use of zolpidem is not within acceptable timings.
• Zolpidem to deal with stress or anxiety.

Physical Dependence vs. Psychological Addiction

Physical dependence refers to the fact that the body has become used to zolpidem and responds negatively when it is decreased or stopped. The psychological addiction is emotional dependence, including the inability to sleep or even perform without the drug.

One can have either or both. These two need special consideration when it comes to treatment, particularly during the zolpidem withdrawal planning.

Who Is at Higher Risk for Zolpidem Addiction?

Some factors predispose to the occurrence of zolpidem addiction, and they include:

• Long-term or high-dose use.
• The history of substance use disorders.
• Simultaneous anxiety or depression.
• Combining zolpidem with alcohol and other tranquilizers.
• Self-treatment of zolpidem.

Understanding Zolpidem Withdrawal Symptoms

Since the zolpidem usage is reduced or stops as the person develops the addiction, the body has a reaction in the form of withdrawal symptoms. The withdrawal symptoms of Zolpidem are mild or severe, depending on the doses, the usage periods, and the health conditions of a person.

The typical symptoms of withdrawal from zolpidem are:

• Rebound insomnia
• Anxiety or restlessness
• Irritability or mood swings
• Nausea or sweating
• Shakings or pains in the muscles
• Headaches
• Difficulty concentrating

In severe cases, the symptoms might be confusion, panic attacks, or hallucination. That is why medical advice is highly suggested in the process of withdrawal.

How Zolpidem Half Life Affects Withdrawal Timeline

The Zolpidem half life is comparatively short and in most cases it is 2 to 3 hours. Nonetheless, it does not imply that withdrawal is easily resolved. The half-life does not influence the duration of withdrawal symptoms but only the speed at which they develop.

What to Expect During Each Phase of Withdrawal

The table presented below summarizes the most frequent stages of zolpidem withdrawal and the symptoms that are usually related to each of the stages.

Within 24 Hours	Days to Weeks	Weeks to Months
Anxiety	Heightened sleep disturbance	Lingering sleep issues
Rebound insomnia	Mood instability	Mild anxiety
Restlessness	Physical discomfort	Emotional sensitivity

Long-Term Zolpidem Side Effects You Should Know

Continuation of zolpidem after the prescribed dosages raises the chances of the zolpidem side effects in the long term. The effect of these can be experienced even when the medication is discontinued particularly in the absence of appropriate support.

The possible long-term side effects are:

• Memory problems
• Daytime drowsiness
• Cognitive slowing
• Emotional blunting
• Raised possibility of accidents or falls

All these risks explain why the use of zolpidem should be used in the short term, and that continuous monitoring is a requirement.

The Hidden Dangers of Mixing Zolpidem and Alcohol

Zolpidem should not be used together with alcohol, in particular. The two substances block the central nervous system, which has the potential to augment their effects in a random way.

Combining zolpidem and alcohol has the following risks:

• Extreme sedation
• Breathing suppression
• Memory blackouts
• Increased overdose risk
• Accidental injuries

Zolpidem Overdose: Warning Signs and Emergency Response

The overdose of zolpidem may also be present when the doses are higher than the required ones or when they are combined with other depressants. The possible symptoms of the overdose include:

• Extreme drowsiness or inactivity.
• Disorientation or confusion.
• Slowed breathing
• Loss of consciousness

Zolpidem overdose is a health emergency. Timely treatment is life-saving.

Start Your Recovery Journey at TouchStone Recovery Center

Zolpidem addiction and withdrawal don’t have to be faced alone. At TouchStone Recovery Center, the caring, evidence-based care is provided to individuals at all levels of recovery. In case you have a problem with the withdrawal or addiction to zolpidem, an individual approach can help to overcome the problem and safely and sustainably recover. Connect with TouchStone Recovery Center and take the first step toward recovery. 

FAQs

What Are the Most Common Zolpidem Withdrawal Symptoms?

Symptoms are usually characterized by rebound insomnia, anxiety, irritability, headaches, and restlessness. The symptoms are different and depend on the dose, time of use, and health characteristics of an individual.

How Long Does Zolpidem Stay in Your System Based on Its Half-Life?

The half-life of zolpidem is approximately 2-3 hours, implying that it is removed from the bloodstream very fast. Nonetheless, withdrawal symptoms can be sustained considerably longer because of physical dependence.

Can You Safely Stop Taking Zolpidem Cold Turkey?

Quitting zolpidem through sudden means may predispose one to serious withdrawal effects. It is highly recommended that a gradual, medically supervised taper be applied.

What Happens If You Mix Zolpidem and Alcohol?

A combination of zolpidem and alcohol greatly enhances the chances of overdose and respiratory stagnation, as well as hazardous sedation. This is something that should never be combined.

How Do I Know If I Have a Zolpidem Addiction?

In case you use zolpidem to get sleep, feel anxious when without, or use more than the prescribed dosage, then you can be addicted. A medical practitioner can assist in examination and prescriptive care.