kicking the Ambien habit--help...

OK, Ambien not doable!  Forgetful anyway but gosh........really forgetful.  Slept yes but couldn't function the next day!!!  ...............doctor took me off and put me on Neurotin (sp) so we will see.

Oh boy, I was massively using Ambien the summer before I was diagnosed. I was one of those who had crazy hallucinogenic experiences on it (in fact, I would post very bizarre things on Facebook after taking it). That's not the reason I stopped, though - I remember finding articles about Ambien causing fibrocystic breast changes (um, can't be good for a BC patient).

I have had insomnia pretty much my entire life... the only way I can sleep well is by:

 - sleeping in 100% total darkness (not even a tiny stereo light showing - the room must be BLACK)
 - exercising and getting sunlight exposure every day
 - listening to an insomnia self-hypnosis mp3

I've tried various natural supplements... large doses of melatonin worked for me (the regular dose did nothing), but I've read that you shouldn't take melatonin long-term or your body could stop manufacturing it.

Thankfully, as kooky as it sounds, self-hypnosis mp3's actually work! I use my iPod on "sleep" mode and turn it on... next thing I know, it's morning and my iPod headphones are all tangled around me. LOL

I have been taking ambien for about 4 years now and i cant get off of it, i cut the 10mg tablets in 1/4 im like crunchy i cant take the very much of it, i was given a whole 10mg in the hospital and i started seeing little green men running around my room and i walked into the nurses station and raided there refrigerater, didnt remember till the next day i had all this food in my food tray- i told the nurse about it, luckily she thought it was funny and didnt put me in a straightjacket, but she cut it in half and i was fine- but wish i could sleep without it- as long as i get at least 7 hrs sleep im ok the next day

I was addicted to Ambien (regular, not CR) for almost 18 months.  I took 15-20 mg of generic Ambien EVERY night to manage sleep issues prior to be Dx to manage jet lag from my heavy work travel schedule.  I tried tapering down my dose as well as quitting cold turkey - both with nasty side effects (no sleep, ringing in ears, headaches, anxiety, etc.).  What worked for me was easing down the dose of Ambien while supplementing with Xanax.  Ambien is an anti-psychotic and affects your brain chemistry.  Xanax is a different type of drug and does not have the effects that Ambien does.  You may want to talk to your doctor about using Xanax or Triazidone (an older sedative product) as a mechanism for getting you off Ambien.  It worked for me and I am finally free of the Ambien for good!

little missy,

This is a ten year old thread. You might consider starting a new thread on the topic to find active members who can offer support. All the best

Good idea- thank you!