Sleeping pill addiction???

[*amelia*]

Hey, I'm a newbie and was wondering if anyone else has been addicted to zopiclone or any other sleeping aid (prescription). I am also coming off alcohol so sleep is a real issue for me. I'd love to hear if anyone else has experience of coming of sleeping pills. Hope everyone is doing well,

Love Amelia x

[kittykat01]

There are many here that can give you some great advise, just look around. Read some of the threads here, they will help. If you can't find what you are looking for look in the phonebook for the hotline number and call it. They have many resources and great information to help. I am glad you are reaching out. I'm very proud of you. That is the first step. Be careful detoxing off alcohol, it is very dangerous. I don't know how much you drink, but I was drinking almost a gallon a day of vodka and I had to go to the hospital for detox. It would have killed me to do it on my own, so be very careful. I will pray for you...with much sober love..

[2ala2]

Hey Amelia,
I was addicted to sleeping pills (Diazapenes) for many years straight. I also mixed it with alcohol 24/7 for as long as I can remember. I have been sober since late Feb. 2007. I could not do it alone. I was in rehab for 3 weeks and my withdrawal symptoms lasted for about 2 weeks. I think it largely depends on how much and how long you have been using. I really suggest rehab even for a shorter period than mine, at least they'll be able to take care of you if get seizures or other attacks, sleeping pills have a tendency to do that. Call up a professional and take their advice. Good Luck,
Magellan

[leeside]

Hi amelia, welcome to SR.

Check this link to find out about the drug, especially about withdrawal. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zopiclone

You have probably experienced most or all of the adverse reactions (it is not always easy to tell the drug is what is causing it). Mixing with alcohol has an additive effect and that includes "adverse reactions" . You may want to check out the Ashton Manual for tapering off (you probably need to consult your doctor before doing anything).

[TexasGrL]

Hello!!! I was addicted to ambien (zolpedilem) for a very long time 5 years it ruined my life and im still just now getting my act 2 gether been clean since 12/05 but i lost my very good job of 6 yrs totaled cars forged scrips for it went to jail and now am on probation 3 years left. i dont know why but i loved it. it didnt make me sleepy untill hours later and gave me a great buzz and happy feeling but it ruined my memory am still suffering from mem. loss. I hate the drug its a death sentence, so i know whatu are feeling. I hope u are okay i was taking 40 a day i could have died i dont want that 4 u! If u want u can read my post on may 26th (i think) it might help. if u want to talk pm me im here!!!!! M

[ccgirl]

Theres a pretty new thread about sleeping pills around here somewhere. Unfortunately, (actually fortunately) I can't help with this one; I took them ocassionally when I had a terrible time sleeping but not too often.

Once you're totally clean on those nights you really can't sleep (not every night though) benydryl works really well and as far as I know is non-addictive