Ambien or Zolpidem can be difficult to stop, especially if taken for years. Tapering CAN be accomplished for many patients, but providers often need to utilize strategies including noncontrolled medications that can minimize withdrawal. Compounding pharmacies can also be utilized to make very small decreases. And if a patient has an underlying anxiety, mood or primary insomnia disorder, that will likely have to be adequately treated via other modalities.

Dr. Pagnani is the Medical Director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates in Philadelphia, and Instructor at The Johns Hopkins Hospital and he supervises psychiatric residents at Jefferson Hospital. www.RittenhousePA.com or visit  @RittenhousePsych  for 100's of educational mental health videos.