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Weaning off zolpidem (Ambien) - any tips?

Posted by lusia @lusia, Dec 9, 2017

taking 5mg ambian for 20 years can melatonin help to ween me off

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Lisa Lucier, Moderator | @lisalucier | 5 days ago
In reply to @notheard "whats the safest way to stop taking zolpidem 10mg if I've been on it for 6..." + (show)
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whats the safest way to stop taking zolpidem 10mg if I've been on it for 6 years and doctor says just stop taking and begin taking Belsomra
I have struggled with sleep in the past but my issue with not being able to sleep right now is mostly due to pain and my doctor has been wanting me to get steroid shots, I want tests to see why I am having the pain. After reading, I am very concerned about abruptly stopping the Zolpidem and I don't want to take the Belsomra. Please give me some sound advice 🙏

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@notheard - welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. You are wise to go slow about stopping any medication cold turkey.

You have every right to express your thoughts to your doctor on these things, and discussing what's best for your individual situation is always appropriate with your doctor.

What do you think about contacting your doctor again to ask for a tapering schedule (if you agree it's best to stop it) and mentioning your concerns about the suvorexant (Belsomra)?

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dustycat52 | @dustycat52 | 5 days ago
In reply to @livehealthy "Am I missing something here? Why are these doctors prescribing a drug that, by the actual..." + (show)
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Am I missing something here? Why are these doctors prescribing a drug that, by the actual drug manufacturer, does not recommend taking it for more than 6 weeks max. And it also states, it is not to be used for long term. Why are these same doctors prescribing long term use and not looking for the answers of the actual cause of insomnia? When looking up the side effects for long term use, Ambien is highly addictive, causes depression, and many, many severe side effects. Ah yes, leading to more prescription's. Being healthy is not as easy as popping a pill. It takes time, kindness and care. I understand needing something to help you sleep during an extreme stressful time. But again, it is not meant for long term use. It is very difficult to face addiction; especially when it is a prescribed legal drug. Being able to trust your doctor to guide you and follow the regulation when you are most vulnerable, is imperative. If your mother wanted to drink a bottle of vodka every night because it made her feel better and sleep better, would you recommend that course as being a healthy choice for “quality of life”?

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@livehealthy Everyone is different. I’ve been taking zolpidem for a long time because I have burning mouth syndrome and the pain in my mouth makes it hard to sleep. I cut the tab into fourths and I dissolve one of the pieces under my tongue and it helps relax it and relieve some of the pain.

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