Ambien CR is an extended release version. It helps you get to sleep within 15 to 30 minutes, and the new extended release portion helps you stay asleep. You should not take Ambien or Ambien CR unless you are able to get a full night’s sleep — at least seven to eight hours. It also should only be prescribed for a short-term need of sleep maintenance.

Ambien promotes the activity of GABA receptors, a special type of neurotransmitter. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that serve as messengers between nerve cells (neurons). The additional activity of the GABA receptors inhibits neuron activity that contributes to insomnia.

The FDA has approved a prescription oral spray called Zolpimist, which contains Ambien’s active ingredient, for the short-term treatment of insomnia brought on by difficulty falling asleep.

What is Insomnia?

Insomnia is a symptom, not a stand-alone diagnosis or a disease. By definition, insomnia is “difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep or both” and it may be due to inadequate quality or quantity of sleep. Insomnia is not defined by a specific number of hours of sleep that one gets, since individuals vary widely in their sleep needs and practices. Although most of us know what insomnia is and how we feel and perform after one or more sleepless nights, few seek medical advice. Many people remain unaware of the behavioral and medical options available to treat insomnia.

Insomnia is generally classified based on the duration of the problem. Not everyone agrees on one definition, but generally:

• Transient insomnia- symptoms lasting less than one week
• Short-term insomnia- symptoms between one to three weeks
• Chronic insomnia- symptoms that last longer than three weeks

Insomnia affects all age groups. Among adults, insomnia affects women more often than men. The incidence tends to increase with age. It is typically more common in people in lower socioeconomic (income) groups, chronic alcoholics, and mental health patients. Stress most commonly triggers short-term or acute insomnia. If you do not address your insomnia, however, it may develop into chronic insomnia.

Aside from the common reason Ambien is used for, it has also been known to help treat:

• Bipolar II Disorder
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Fibromyalgia Syndrome
• Multiple Chemical Sensitivity
• Myofascial Pain Syndrome
• Narcolepsy
• Polycystic ovarian Syndrome
• Postpartum depression
• Restless legs syndrome
• Sleep apnea

h2>Differences of Medication for Sleep Disorders

The main difference between the medications for sleep disorders is their duration of action, which actually makes one preferable depending on the type of insomnia the patient suffers from. For instance, if the patient’s problem is initiating sleep, but they are able to stay asleep once sleep has come, a short-acting medication would be sufficient. If the main problem is maintaining sleep, long-acting medication can be prescribed. The draw-back of using a long-acting medication is that, in some patients, the effects might carry over to the day and cause them a “hang-over” effect.

Ambien Addiction Treatment

If you or someone you know is struggling with an Ambien addiction, we can help. Please call the toll free number at (888) 371-5716. We are available 24 hours a day to answer your questions on Ambien addiction and treatment.