Posted by Elizabeth on February 15, 2002, at 12:26:28
In reply to Re: withdrawing from sleeping pill addiction at home?, posted by Dona on February 14, 2002, at 19:49:25
Dona,
I still think that it might be worthwhile to try to stop taking Ambien at home, with your husband's help. I'd suggest making a contract with your husband saying that you won't take any more Ambien and agreeing to seek treatment for drug abuse (your psychiatrist should be able to tell you where the best treatment center in your area is) if you aren't able to stop. (The terms of the contract should be worded very clearly -- no cheating! :-) )
If you do find that you need professional help in order to stay off of Ambien, that doesn't necessarily mean that you have to go to a hospital. There are outpatient substance abuse treatment centers in lots of places. If you end up telling your psychiatrist about your problem with Ambien, stress that you really want to get help as an outpatient, if possible.
Discontinuing Ambien is not dangerous and shouldn't be a problem. The hardest part will be conquering the cravings.
BTW: have you gotten on a different sleeping pill, and if so, which one?
-elizabeth
poster:Elizabeth
thread:93431
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020215/msgs/94273.html