Zolpidem Addiction and Abuse
Zolpidem is prescribed for insomnia as it tends to make people using it feel drowsy very quickly. Zolpidem can also be given to patients who have trouble staying asleep. People who take zolpidem should go to bed soon after they ingest it and plan to get at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep. If someone gets up too soon after taking zolpidem, they’re at risk for sleepwalking or doing dangerous things while asleep. Zolpidem’s side effects can include not only drowsiness, but also memory, coordination and alertness impairment.
Before someone is prescribed zolpidem, their doctor should have a full rundown of any other substances that they regularly use. This can include vitamins, supplements, prescription and non-prescription medications and alcohol. Patients should also speak with their doctors about any past substance abuse issues they may have had. A doctor should be aware if a patient has ever consumed large amounts of alcohol, used illicit drugs or abused prescription medications before prescribing zolpidem.

To avoid the risk of zolpidem abuse, this drug is intended as a short-term treatment. The longer someone uses zolpidem, the greater the risk of abuse and addiction. When someone uses zolpidem in high does, they’re more likely to experience pleasurable effects which can contribute to abuse. Anytime someone is using zolpidem non-medicinally or outside of the doctor’s instructions, it’s considered abuse. Specific signs of Zolpidem abuse can include taking large doses, taking it more often than prescribed, using it recreationally or mixing it with other substances like alcohol. Long-term effects of Zolpidem abuse can include addiction and dependence, as well as a variety of psychological and physical symptoms.
Seeking addiction treatment can feel overwhelming. We know the struggle, which is why we're uniquely qualified to help.
Your call is confidential, and there's no pressure to commit to treatment until you're ready. As a voluntary facility, we're here to help you heal -- on your terms. Our sole focus is getting you back to the healthy, sober life you deserve, and we are ready and waiting to answer your questions or concerns 24/7.
Speak with an Intake Coordination Specialist now.352.771.2700It’s also important to note that while it’s a milder drug, zolpidem has many of the same psychological and physical effects as benzodiazepines like Xanax and Valium. Xanax and Valium addiction, abuse and overdoses are a significant problem in the United States. Mixing zolpidem with alcohol is another common practice, which is highly dangerous. This practice can increase the chances of a polysubstance addiction problem. Mixing zolpidem with other substances can also lead to a higher likelihood of a dangerous overdose, which can result in coma or death.
Have more questions about Zolpidem abuse?
Read the most frequently asked questionsSeeking addiction treatment can feel overwhelming. We know the struggle, which is why we're uniquely qualified to help.
Your call is confidential, and there's no pressure to commit to treatment until you're ready. As a voluntary facility, we're here to help you heal -- on your terms. Our sole focus is getting you back to the healthy, sober life you deserve, and we are ready and waiting to answer your questions or concerns 24/7.
Speak with an Intake Coordination Specialist now.352.771.2700