Mark Leeds, D.O.
Mark Leeds, D.O.
Tapering Zolpidem: How to Get Off Ambien for People With Intractable Insomnia
Tapering Zolpidem: How to Get Off Ambien for People With Intractable Insomnia
Tapering Zolpidem: How to Get Off Ambien for People With Intractable Insomnia
Saturday 13th April 2024
Dr Mark Leeds discusses how to safely taper off Ambien for intractable insomnia, highlighting CBTI techniques and the importance of medical supervision.
9 minutes
Informative
Supportive
Hopeful
Educational
Encouraging
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Mark Leeds, D.O.
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Get the buttons here!Breaking Free from Ambien: Dr Mark Leeds on Tapering Zolpidem for Severe Insomnia
Episode Overview
- Tapering off Zolpidem should be done gradually under medical supervision.
- CBTI is an effective non-drug treatment for chronic insomnia.
- Long-term use of Ambien can lead to dependence and serious side effects.
- Good sleep hygiene practices are crucial for improving sleep quality.
- Support from family, friends, and healthcare professionals is essential.
Tapering off Zolpidem should always be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
If you've ever struggled with sleepless nights, this episode is a must-listen. Dr Mark Leeds, an experienced osteopathic physician, tackles the tricky topic of tapering off Zolpidem, commonly known as Ambien, for those suffering from intractable insomnia. Intractable insomnia is a persistent sleep disorder that doesn't respond to typical treatments, often caused by chronic pain, mental health issues, or other underlying conditions.
Dr Leeds explains how Ambien works to help people fall asleep but also highlights the risks of long-term use, including dependence and various side effects. You'll learn why it's crucial to taper off Zolpidem under medical supervision rather than stopping abruptly, which can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms like seizures and hallucinations. He also dives into Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI), a non-drug approach that changes sleep habits and thought patterns to improve sleep quality.
CBTI techniques include sleep restriction, stimulus control, and cognitive restructuring. Dr Leeds stresses the importance of a gradual tapering process tailored to each individual's needs and medical history, ensuring minimal withdrawal symptoms. He also touches on alternative treatments like melatonin supplements and good sleep hygiene practices. Regular monitoring and adjustments by healthcare professionals are essential to track progress and tweak treatment plans as needed.
Support from family, friends, and healthcare providers plays a crucial role in maintaining motivation and overcoming obstacles. The episode ends on a hopeful note, emphasising that with persistence, support, and the right treatment approach, it's possible to overcome intractable insomnia and significantly improve your quality of life.