Imagine you’re having trouble falling asleep one night, and you rummage through the bathroom drawer looking for Ambien. You’re already tired and groggy, so you end up taking what you think is Ambien. However, the medication is ineffective, so you call your doctor in the morning asking for a higher dose, which ends up being too much. Turns out that what you originally thought was Ambien was not.
Identifying prescription medications is important for several reasons, particularly in terms of safety, effectiveness, and preventing harm. Taking the wrong medication can lead to ineffective treatment or adverse reactions, and it prevents underdosing and overdosing, both of which can have serious health consequences.
According to data from Arizona’s Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, over 392,000 prescriptions were written in 2023 in Yavapai County alone. However, medication errors are extremely common, harming at least 1.5 million people each year. This is one reason why being able to identify certain medications can be helpful in preventing interactions and misuse.
Wolf Creek Recovery gives each person individualized attention when they arrive at our facility. We understand that many people have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, particularly when they are dealing with underlying mental health and substance use problems. While Ambien can seem like a great solution, it’s only intended for short-term use. Using the medication outside of these guidelines can lead to tolerance, dependence, and the potential for Ambien use disorder.
Let’s learn more about Ambien identification so that you can be informed.
What Ambien Looks Like
Ambien typically comes in tablet form, though it can vary depending on the dosage and manufacturer. For instance, Ambien 5mg is peach or pink in color, with a round, oblong, or oval shape. It’s usually imprinted with “AMB 5” on one side or just “5” depending on the manufacturer. Ambien 10mg has the same shape, but is white in color and imprinted with “AMB 10” or just “10.”
The tablets also come in controlled release (CR), meaning that the active ingredient is released at a specific rate to maintain levels in the body. Ambien CR 6.25mg and Ambien CR 12.5mg look similar, as they are round, oval, or elliptical. They are also both imprinted with “A~” on one side. The difference is that the 6.25mg tablet is pink or light pink in color, while the 12.5mg tablet is blue. Also, the other side of the tablet has the dosage imprinted—6.25mg and 12.5mg, respectively.
Ambien Mixed With Other Drugs
While Ambien is usually prescribed as a standalone medication for the treatment of insomnia, it can interact with other substances, including over-the-counter and prescription medications. This is why you should always consult with a healthcare provider before mixing Ambien with another substance. Some people also use Ambien recreationally with other substances to enhance the effects, which can be incredibly risky.
Prescription medications, such as benzodiazepines, opioids, and antidepressants, can significantly increase the sedative effects of Ambien, leading to dangerous levels of drowsiness, respiratory depression, and the potential for overdose. Mixing alcohol with Ambien is also dangerous, as both substances suppress the central nervous system, amplifying each other’s effects. Combining Ambien with other sleep aids can also lead to dangerous levels of sedation, confusion, memory problems, and difficulty waking up.
Even some over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines and cold or allergy medications, should not be mixed with Ambien due to the potential for enhanced drowsiness and impaired cognitive functions. Finally, illicit substances such as cannabis, stimulants, and heroin can cause unpredictable effects that can lead to severe anxiety, irregular heartbeat, coordination problems, respiratory depression, and death.
Other Names for Ambien
Ambien is known by several names, depending on the context and manufacturer. The generic name for Ambien is zolpidem. Ambien CR is the controlled release version of the sleep medication, helping people stay asleep longer. Other names for Ambien include ZolpiMist (oral spray), Intermezzo (low-dose, ideal for middle-of-the-night awakenings), and Edluar (dissolves under the tongue). There are also street names for Ambien, which are used when referring to the misuse or illicit use of the sleep aid, that include Zombies and A-minus.
How To Tell if Someone Is Using Ambien
Recognizing if someone is misusing Ambien can be difficult, as this medication can resemble other sedative or sleep-inducing substances. Also, if the person has been prescribed Ambien to help them fall asleep or stay asleep, seeing them drowsy during the day might not be unusual. It can take time to get used to these medications, after all.
That being said, there are certain signs and symptoms that may indicate signs of misuse. Aside from the physical, behavioral, and emotional effects that people can experience when taking Ambien, you may also notice physical evidence like an excess of pill bottles, frequent doctor visits, and getting defensive when questioned about the medication. Remember, Ambien is intended for short-term use only. This is not a sustainable solution for sleep.
Short-Term Effects
The short-term effects that can occur with Ambien use typically subside a few hours after the medication wears off. However, some people do experience lingering effects, especially if they don’t get a full night’s rest. Here are some of the most common short-term effects:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Impaired coordination
- Headache
- Sedation
- Short-term memory loss
- Confusion and disorientation
- Nausea
- Sleepwalking and other sleep-related behaviors
- Hallucinations
- Mood changes
- Blurred vision
Long-Term Effects
Since Ambien is not intended for long-term use, those who misuse the medication can experience various risks and adverse effects. Some of the long-term effects that can occur with Ambien use are:
- Tolerance and dependence
- Withdrawal symptoms
- Cognitive impairment
- Behavioral changes
- Increased risk of accidents
- Depression and mood disorders
- Rebound insomnia
- Risk of overdose
Ambien Overdose
It is possible to overdose on Ambien, especially when taking the substance in higher doses or combining it with other depressants like alcohol or opioids. The main signs and symptoms of an Ambien overdose include extreme drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, respiratory depression, reduced heart rate, bluish skin or lips, hallucinations, and seizures.
If you believe that someone is experiencing an overdose, call 911 immediately. Stay with the person until help gets there and try to keep them awake and responsive. Provide the paramedics with as much information as you can, as the more they know, the better they can respond to the person and increase their chances of survival. Fortunately, there are several options for treating an Ambien overdose, including activated charcoal, flumazenil, and supportive care. Hospitalization may also be required if breathing becomes an issue.
Treatment Options for Ambien Addiction in Prescott, AZ
Ambien addiction treatment involves a combination of medical, psychological, and behavioral support. Medical detoxification starts the recovery process, eliminating Ambien and other harmful substances from the body. Gradual tapering may be used to minimize withdrawal symptoms. Medications are also available to help manage withdrawal symptoms or underlying conditions like anxiety.
After completing detox, you will begin a treatment program that offers intensive group and individual therapy. Topics discussed in therapy include establishing good sleep hygiene, preventing return to use, avoiding or reducing triggers, and building healthy coping skills. A 12-step program or mutual support group can also be a great addition to your treatment plan, as you can share your challenges and achievements with others who understand what you’re going through.
As a treatment program that offers comprehensive care, Wolf Creek Recovery gives you all the tools needed to create a healthier life. We teach clients how to manage insomnia using healthy practices like meditation, relaxation techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy. We also tire our clients out by exposing them to various outdoor activities, such as hiking, playing pickleball and basketball, and paddle boating on the water, making it easier to fall asleep at night. Build a life you love by calling us today at 833-732-8202.
FAQs About Ambien Identification
What does Ambien look like?
Ambien is typically available in tablet form, with varying colors and shapes depending on the dosage and manufacturer. Other forms of Ambien are also available, including a spray mist and tablets that dissolve under the tongue.
What should I do if I find Ambien?
If you find Ambien, check to make sure the medication is indeed what you think it is. You can check the label on the container or use an online pill identifier. Secure the medication so that it’s out of reach, and contact the owner if you know who the medication belongs to. If the medication is not needed, dispose of it safely, such as by taking it to a drug take-back program.
Where do people commonly hide Ambien?
People sometimes hide Ambien where they believe the medication will be hidden and out of sight. Some common hiding places include medicine cabinets, bedside tables/drawers, pill organizers, purses or bags, closets, safes or lockboxes, or hidden compartments disguised as everyday items.
