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What is a Sedative? A sedative is a type of central nervous system depressant that works by facilitating the activation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which calms an otherwise over-excited nervous system, causing drowsiness and calming effects.1 While sedatives (aka depressants) are commonly prescribed for insomnia and anxiety, they can also elicit dose-dependent euphoria and have […]

Eszopiclone is one of three non-benzodiazepine prescription sedatives, along with zaleplon (Sonata) and zolpidem (Ambien), collectively referred to as “z-drugs.” Lunesta and the other z- are generally discouraged for older adults (due to risk of injury) and patients with untreated sleep apnea (due to risk of respiratory depression).3 Read on to understand how Lunesta works; […]

While there is some evidence for its off-label efficacy in managing several health conditions, including the management of alcohol withdrawal and opioid addiction, gabapentin itself has misuse potential, which can in some cases lead to significantly adverse associated health issues.1 This page will discuss what gabapentin is, side effects of the drug, its misuse liability, symptoms […]

It is not recommended for long-term use. Physicians have been advised to avoid prescribing Ambien for extended lengths of treatment without re-evaluating their patients because of the risks of misuse.2 Ambien is a brand name formulation of zolpidem, a sleep-inducing medication that can lead to the development of physical and/or psychological dependence.2 People with a […]

A prescription anticonvulsant, gabapentin is approved for use for the treatment of epileptic seizures, restless legs syndrome, and nerve pain from postherpetic neuralgia1,2—a condition characterized by pain that can last for months after a shingles infection. In its various forms, gabapentin is marketed under brand names such as Gralise, Horizant, and Neurontin, and is also […]

Continue reading to understand how Ambien works; its potential side effects and risks, including complex sleep behaviors, its addictive potential, and signs of misuse and overdose. Additionally, get a better understanding of the how to stop if you or a loved one struggle with Ambien, sedative, or other prescription drug misuse. What is Ambien? Zolpidem […]

What Are the Risks of Long-Term Ambien Use? People who abuse large amounts of Ambien, or who have a longstanding Ambien abuse habit, can experience: Up to 30 percent of adults have difficulty sleeping, and at least 10 percent of these individuals have insomnia that is severe enough to interfere with their daily lives, states […]

Ambien was initially promoted as a safer alternative to benzodiazepines, with less risk for addiction or tolerance, but studies show that this has been underestimated.1 There are also serious health risks associated with long-term use of Ambien, including a potentially increased likelihood of respiratory issues, reflux, and infections.3, 4 Ambien works similarly to benzodiazepines but […]

About 40 million American adults–18 percent of the US population–suffer from some form of anxiety, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. Many of these individuals are treated with anti-anxiety medications like Ativan (lorazepam), a short-acting tranquilizer. When taken appropriately under a doctor’s supervision, Ativan can help reduce many of the common symptoms […]