Guest guest Posted June 11, 2012 Report Share Posted June 11, 2012 Hello. I know it's been awhile since I have posted but I still read everyone's post. I have been having a dilemma of my own and was hoping for some support. Unfortunately I have become addicted to taking Ambien every night. I want to stop I just can't seem to do it. Every night I'll get into bed and just think I can't lay here all night and I give in. I know it's not good and want to stop. Anyone have any good ideas? I know it's not good for my body and I am convinced it has helped create weight in my stomach. Any support it information is appreciated. Thanks Nik Sent from my iPhone Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 12, 2012 Report Share Posted June 12, 2012 Hi Nik, Well, there are so many things that can help, it’s about finding what works for you. I’m so sorry it’s hard for you to sleep. I must take Ambien to sleep as well. I look at it that I am dependent on it, not addicted to it. There is a difference when we take something because it is helpful. So, there is substituting something else. In my mind if I wanted to go off of it, I would gradually cut a quarter off the Ambien for at least a week. As you do that, I would add either 1 or 2 mg of melatonin if you doctor says it’s ok to take with other meds you take. It can be quite helpful to take Melatonin at bedtime. There is a tea called sleepy time herbal tea, it helps if you drink a cup an hour or so before bedtime. If after a week you are sleeping ok, then I would cut the Ambien in half this time and then cut to a quarter and go another week until you have gone a total of 4 weeks. We must be patient with our systems and allow them to adjust to a new routine. So 4 weeks isn’t that long and tapering is less of a shock on our body than cold turkey. Thus the difference between dependent, gradually slowing down, and re-adjusting. You may need even more time. Remember, your life situation plays a big roll in doing something like this and it needs to be kept as stress less as possible when titrating off a medication. These are suggestions not prescriptions, as of course I am not a doctor. I’ve heard it is also good to make a bedtime ritual of no t.v. or stimulation of any kind except reading a book a good half hour before sleep time and lights out. This has been told to me by my sleep doctor and as little light, just enough to read by will help the brain move into a more sleep ready state. Let us know how you do ok? All My Best, From: Connolly Sent: Monday, June 11, 2012 2:47 PM To: stillsdisease Subject: Greetings - Ambien Hello. I know it's been awhile since I have posted but I still read everyone's post. I have been having a dilemma of my own and was hoping for some support. Unfortunately I have become addicted to taking Ambien every night. I want to stop I just can't seem to do it. Every night I'll get into bed and just think I can't lay here all night and I give in. I know it's not good and want to stop. Anyone have any good ideas? I know it's not good for my body and I am convinced it has helped create weight in my stomach. Any support it information is appreciated. Thanks Nik Sent from my iPhone Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.