Over the past two decades the treatment of insomnia has been supposedly revolutionized. We have moved away from things such as Diazepam (Valium), Temazepam or Nitrazepam that were given for a number of illnesses including depression, anxiety and insomnia. This led to many becoming addicted often requiring higher doses over time to achieve a similar effect. Now with the advent of the so called "Z" drugs (Zopiclone, Zolpidem and Zaleplon) all the addiction problems are sorted!..right?
I wish it were true that people do not get addicted to the Z drugs, but it happens. The British National Formulary (BNF) and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (UK) states that "Z" drugs should be used for no longer than 4 weeks in an attempt to avoid addiction. I have been prescribed Zolpidem for over 10 years! and I do not think that I am an isolated case. Doctors have talked about removing the drug from my prescription, however no doctor yet has come up with a reasonable withdrawal program. After many years of contemplation and concern, I have finally taken the steps needed to free myself of Zolpidem.
I would urge anyone wanting to stop a Z drug especially after a long time or a high dose to consultant their doctor. The withdrawal of any medication can be problematic but with the Z drugs withdrawal can be very dangerous. This is not the time or place to describe how one withdraws from a Z drug, however it is no secret and can be found with a simple search on the internet.
Good Luck!
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