Guest Author - Lisa Angelettie M.S.W.

The road down to Ambien abuse is paved with very slippery stones. First a client may visit a psychotherapist for a bout of depression. She can't sleep. Isn't eating well. Isn't performing well at work. She wants more rest. Obliged to help the client, a therapist may prescribe the medication as a sleep aid, and then the road to Ambien abuse begins.

When used properly as a sleep medication - Ambien is effective. That's probably why it is a popular drug to prescribe for bouts of insomnia; But popular drugs are often abused - and Ambien is no different.

Ambien is the name for the generic drug Zolpidem. It is a drug that effects the central nervous system and works by causing sedation and muscle relaxation. Because Ambien has more sedative properties and little of the muscle relaxant properties, it is used as a sleep medication.
When Ambien abuse occurs, people may take it orally, crush and snort it, or cook it for an intravenous injection.

The effects of Ambien include drowsiness during the day, dizziness, lightheadedness, coordination difficulties, tolerance, dependence, and changing in thinking or behavior. It is also common for people taking Ambien to experience a special type of memory loss much like amnesia. The person does not remember what he or she did or said for several hours after taking Ambien.

Ambien abuse can occur when used longer than recommended (no longer than a few weeks), at high doses (more than the usual 10g), and in people who have been dependent on other drugs or alcohol in the past. Ambien effects can increase in intensity if mixed with other substances like alcohol.

A person who has overdosed on Ambien can be spotted if they are excessively sleepy or are in a light coma. There have been cases where an overdose has been fatal. Ambien dependence is a serious addiction. It is readily available and very strong.

If you suspect Ambien abuse in a loved one or possibly with yourself, check out the following resources to obtain some help immediately.

Ambien abuse resource #1 - Drug-Rehab-Addiction-Treatment.com

Ambien abuse resource #2 - Drug Rehab America.net