Posted by lou pilder on February 11, 2002, at 13:51:39
In reply to Re: withdrawing from sleeping pill addiction at home? » lou pilder, posted by Elizabeth on February 11, 2002, at 12:22:15
> Lou,
>
> You might want to read up on the chemistry and molecular and clinical pharmacology of benzodiazepines vs. zolpidem (which is not a benzodiazepine). There are similarities, including a partially shared mechanism of action, but they aren't the same thing. It cannot be assumed that a statement about benzodiazepines also applies to zolpidem. Of particular relevance, zolpidem doesn't generally cause serious withdrawal symptoms; some people have rebound insomnia upon discontinuing zolpidem, but even this is generally mild. The main serious symptom that is (occasionally) associated with benzodiazepine withdrawal -- seizures -- is not seen with zolpidem at all (this is unsurprising, since zolpidem is not an anticonvulsant). Zolpidem withdrawal symptoms are often absent altogether, and if they are present, they are generally milder than benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms.
>
> It is true that benzodiazepines can be difficult to discontinue and that it can be dangerous to stop taking a benzodiazepine abruptly after long-term use, but hospitalization is probably not necessary for most people. Decreasing the dose very gradually is the most effective strategy.
>
> Try to be a little more careful about making generalizations, okay? Sharing your experience is one thing, but telling someone else that she will have the same experience as you did is not at all reasonable.
>
> -elizabethElizabeth
You seem to know a lot about this drug. Iam only wanting to help this person and if we all answer her plea, then perhaps one of us can help her with our expeiances. You are right, I can only talk for myself. Butwe shold all be able to talk about what we know to be true to us. I believe in the right for all people to expess their opinion and on this board I think that it wil be of great benifit to those who are reaching out for help. We give what we know and we contribute. It is the people tha remain silent that are dangerous.
Lou
poster:lou pilder
thread:93431
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020208/msgs/93755.html